In Red Prophet, you get a glimpse of the world outside what is directly happening to Alvin. William Harrison is introduced, as are others who will become important to the story.

When Alvin is sent out to become the apprentice to the blacksmith in the town where he was born, he and the brother he is traveling with are kidnapped and beaten severely by Indians who have been paid to start an incident. However, they are rescued by Ta-Kumsaw, and taken to live with his tribe for a time.

You'll meet all kinds of familiar historic characters... Napoleon and more. This adds such an interesting dimension. Some bear a strong resemblence to the men they really were, while others are much different.

You'll see Alvin learn to use his knack deliberately rather than accidentally. He learns from the Indians how to live peacefully with the earth. Alvin shares a vision with the Indian Prophet, which is vital to the rest of the series.

There's tragedy too, as Alvin's family sets out for revenge against the Indians they believe have murdered their sons. But you'll have to read the book to get more on that.