Buck Steichen is doing his best to endure the tribulations that accompany living in rural Minnesota during a time of drought, insect infestations, and other hardships. Buck eventually finds happiness with Ellie Eberling, and in July 1874, he marries her, purchases farmland, and builds a house. It seems Buck has realized the American dream-or so he thinks. Rough on Rats is an epic tale of a family's struggles in rural Minnesota as they do everything in their power to survive amid trying times.
