A young boy (an only-child) with a vivid imagination wants desperately to have a pet like all of his friends and classmates. He does not have a sibling to play with; so he is often transformed into imaginary worlds. Through his exploration he finds himself engaged on catching an elusive figure that no one else can see, nor hear. The only clues are quick glances and confusing sounds. His frustration begins at home and continues throughout the day at school and into the evening. It lasts for several days, until one day the final chase ends, with his parents awaiting with a big surprise; an animal that no one could name. James transforms his imaginary world as a pirate, with his trusty "Matey"; aka "Spyglass", on a series of "Swash-Bucking" adventures in their elusive pursuit of this imaginary character!