Krystyna, a thirteen-year-old Polish girl, embodies the harrowing reality of life during the invasion of Poland in World War II. Her hair, dark as the night, cascades down her back in stark contrast to her pale, almost translucent skin, which speaks of days spent in hiding and nights filled with fear. Her eyes, wide and alert, constantly scan her surroundings, a testament to her skittish nature and the ever-present threat of danger. Krystyna's wardrobe is simple, often consisting of whatever tattered clothing she can find or is given—typically a worn dress, patched at the elbows and knees, and a pair of mismatched shoes that are too big for her small feet, a reminder of the scarcity that has become her life.

Living in a time of war, Krystyna's deepest desire is to find safety and reunite with her family, who were scattered during the initial chaos of the invasion. Her fear and the constant movement to evade capture by the invading forces make this dream seem unattainable. Yet, Krystyna's resilience shines through her fear; she navigates the dangerous streets of her war-torn city with a cautious bravery that belies her young age. Her unique trait is a small, worn-out doll she carries everywhere, a silent companion that represents the innocence she clings to amidst the chaos.

Krystyna's journey is fraught with peril, yet her determination to survive and find her family propels her forward. She learns to read people's intentions, to move silently, and to find safety in the most unlikely of places. Her efforts are not in vain; her cautious nature and the kindness of strangers occasionally provide her with moments of respite and hope.

The conflict in Krystyna's life is the war itself, which has torn her family apart and turned her world into a battlefield. Yet, it is through these trials that Krystyna grows, her spirit unbroken despite the surrounding devastation. Her story ends with a glimmer of hope as she finally reconnects with a family member, a testament to her enduring will to survive and find love amidst the ruins of war.