Mikolu, a Bushman youth in prehistoric North Africa, dreams of taming a wild dog (ancestor of today's Basenji hound) as a hunting companion so his clan will never lose game again. It is a dream that is heavily criticized by many in the clan as a foolish and dangerous dream. All know leopards like to eat dogs and fear a dog in camp will draw, Kur, a man-eating leopard that has plagued them for years that had carried off Mikolu's sister among the many victims. Harshest among his critics is Shonga, a cruel and self absorbed older youth who fancies himself chief of the clan some day. Mikolu's strongest ally is Nendaka, the clan's old shaman who foresees great things for him including bringing a great gift to the clan. Mikolu gets his chance to fulfill his dream when he must meet the challenge of the Long Walk - a test of manhood where he must survive alone in the bush from full moon to full moon with only a few tools and the bush craft his uncle, Mika, has taught him.. Shadowed by the deadly and stealthy Kur, Mikolu rescues and tames a young female Basenji he names Kifri. They return to the clan with the gift of an antelope they caught together. Still the elders are skeptical and demand more proof the relationship between dog and man will work. Mikolu takes Kifri on a hunt with the clan hunters where she prevents a wounded wild ox from getting away. The great success is short lived. Mikolu's hopes are dashed when Kur carries off Shonga's child and many blame the presence of the dog. After trying to kill Kifri with his spear that is blocked by Nendaka's thrown staff, Shonga demands they both be banished. While their fate is being discussed by the elders, Mikolu and Kifri run away to hunt the leopard unknowingly followed by Shonga, who intends that neither of them survive, knowing he can easily blame Kur for their deaths. Hunters quickly become the hunted. All ends well in a thrilling conclusion. Kifri is allowed to stay and Shonga ends up banished to the River Clan of his wife.
