A young Jewish girl navigates the horrors of the Holocaust in Eastern Europe. Tzili, orphaned and alone, must rely on her resilience and cunning to survive the brutal realities of war and persecution. She moves through a landscape of constant danger, encountering both cruelty and unexpected kindness as she seeks a safe haven. The narrative framework is primarily third-person, focusing closely on Tzili's experiences and perceptions.

The novel is recognized for its stark and unflinching portrayal of a child's experience during the Holocaust. Critics have noted Appelfeld's ability to convey profound emotional depth through sparse prose, focusing on the psychological impact of trauma and survival. The narrative is often praised for its authenticity and its exploration of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. It is considered a significant work in Holocaust literature, offering a deeply personal perspective on historical events.