Ex-gang member John Henry is a quiet man with a violent past. When two immigrant kids on the run from his former South Los Angeles gang leader stumble into his life, John is forced to reconcile with his past in order to try and give them a future.

The story follow legendary railroad worker John Henry during the late 19th century.

Read by Denzel Washington

John Henry springs to life as a full-grown man, and in no time at all establishes himself as the mightiest steel-driver around. When a newfangled steel-driving machine threatens his livelihood, he sets out to beat it in a one-on-one race.

John Henry Balch was a Pharmacist's Mate attached to the 3rd Battalion 6th Marine Regiment when his unit entered the Belleau Wood. His dedication to the Marines under his care earned him the Medal of Honor.

Harassed single parent Karen lives with her two year old son Henry and gets no help from the child's father. Lack of childcare costs her a job interview and she goes to a park,leaving Henry with Anna,another mother whilst she goes for a drink. In the bar she picks up Martin and goes home with him for - unsatisfactory - sex but on returning to the park she finds Anna has called the police to whom she must give her address. This turns out to be a blessing in disguise when Martin follows her home and proves to be a potentially sympathetic friend.

The musically talented, but socially challenged Henry (14) arrives at a private boarding school for music students at the beginning of a new school year. There, he unexpectedly discovers his fascination with playing the organ. From the fascination, a general love arise for the instrument, the playing of which offer Henry a refuge from the bullying that his fellow students puts him through. His teacher Ms. Schmidt recognizes his talent. Her growing interest in Henry, however, further worsens his position with his roommates Erik, Mik and Sebi. Erik feels that his status as the school's prodigy is threatened, his talent as an organ player has saved him from relegation for years. Erik rules the school and is together with Melanie, who has had Henry under her spell, since he first arrived at the school. Erik and his minions Sebi and Mik, do all they can to make Henry's life a living hell.

Henry, tracing his descent from Edward III, has claimed the French crown. Assured by the Archbishop of Canterbury that right is on his side, and needled by the Dauphin’s insolence, he prepares for war.

An aspiring author must learn to compartmentalize her imaginary love, O'Henry, so that she can get on with he real life.

HENRY FORD paints a fascinating portrait of a farm boy who rose from obscurity to become the most influential American innovator of the 20th century.