The Treasure of Northwood follows twelve-year-old Jimmy Matthews, and his best friends Tommy Chen, and Billy Rodriguez during the summer of 1998. After secretly copying a Cherokee treasure map from Jack Summers at their town's summer fair, the three boys embark on a dangerous journey through Oregon wilderness to find a hidden treasure chamber in the Cascade Mountains. Their adventure leads them through treacherous rapids and into underground chambers filled with ancient artifacts. However, what starts as a treasure hunt becomes something much greater, when they discover their small town's connection to a remarkable history of Native American cooperation. As the boys face the consequences of their unauthorized expedition, and learn about true friendship and responsibility, they realize the greatest treasure isn't gold, but the understanding and heritage that connects all people.