Book written under the pseudonym Jeff Clinton. BUT, this is a typical Jack Bickham book. A film, using this book's plot, coul have been shown at a local movie theatre in the 40s or early 50s. An Emerald is found that grants water to parts of the Emerald Canyon. The Sodbusters live in the non wet portion of the Canyon. A Jeff Chandler clone named McCollum is the leader of the Sod Busters. A Gary Cooper Clone is hired as a sheriff to keep the Sod Busters in line. But, of course Gary Cooper can't do that. Book holds your interest, because no matter the plot, Jack Bickham is a very good writer.