Spoiler Alert!
* Stanley's Redemption: Stanley, after enduring months of hardship in the camp, finally discovers the truth about his family's curse. He learns that his great-great-grandfather was a crooked, but kind-hearted, shoemaker who accidentally stole a valuable pair of shoes from a famous outlaw named Kissin' Kate Barlow. This theft, and the shoes' subsequent loss, is the source of the curse that plagued Stanley's family for generations.
* The Treasure: Stanley and Zero (his friend at the camp) find the treasure buried by Kate Barlow, which is the stolen shoes. Stanley uses the money from the shoes to buy the camp and free the boys.
* Justice Served: The Warden of the camp, who has been exploiting the boys for years, is arrested for her crimes.
* Life's Lessons: Stanley learns the importance of perseverance, friendship, and self-belief. He also learns that even bad situations can lead to unexpected blessings.
The ending is both hopeful and bittersweet. While Stanley and Zero are freed from the camp and the curse is broken, they have both been deeply affected by their experiences. The book leaves the reader to ponder how these experiences will shape their futures.