The story revolves around the adventures of the protagonist, Maurice Pennington, the son of a trapper. Maurice grows up in the wilderness of North America, learning the skills of survival and trapping from his father. However, circumstances lead Maurice to venture out into the wider world, where he encounters various challenges and experiences that test his abilities and character.
As Maurice navigates through the wilderness and interacts with different characters, he faces dangers such as wild animals, harsh weather, and conflicts with other trappers. Along the way, he forms friendships, faces moral dilemmas, and learns valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and integrity.
Like many of Kingston's works, "The Trapper's Son" is characterized by its vivid descriptions of natural landscapes, exciting adventures, and moral themes. The novel reflects the romanticized portrayal of the wilderness prevalent in literature of the time, as well as the values of self-reliance and perseverance. While the book may contain elements that reflect the attitudes and perspectives of its Victorian-era context, it remains a compelling example of adventure literature for readers of all ages.