Two teenage cousins embark on a quest through the Irish countryside to locate a hidden portal into the realm of the faerie. Seeking the legendary Faraway Country, the protagonists must navigate the intersection of modern reality and ancient myth. Their objective is complicated by the rigid, often dangerous social hierarchy of the little people, who demand absolute submission from human visitors. The narrative follows their physical trek across Ireland, blending contemporary adolescent concerns with the high-stakes logic of traditional folklore.

This work is frequently noted for its authentic engagement with Irish folklore and its ability to ground fantastical elements in a recognizable, contemporary setting. Readers often highlight the contrast between the two cousins as a primary driver of the narrative tension throughout their travels. The prose is characterized by a lyrical quality that reflects the oral storytelling traditions of the region. The book maintains a reputation for being a foundational entry in the subgenre of portal fantasy for younger audiences, emphasizing the weight of ancient rules in a modern world.