This European drama chronicles the life of a 13-year old Jewish girl in the 1950's during Stalin's reign. It is told from her point of view. The story begins in 1952. Kati is in class when she is abruptly removed and informed of her mother's death. Because her father works in a distant city, Kati must live briefly with her uncaring uncle. She eventually returns to her former apartment which she must share with another family. She must return because there is a housing shortage. Any empty flats are seized and occupied. To ease her subsequent loneliness, Kati begins holding imaginary conversations with her mother. Though the images are surprisingly real to Kati, they do not take the place of real friends and affections. Trouble ensues after she holds a birthday party at her house. There is liquor. After the party, Kati expresses erotic thoughts. Her teacher discovers the diary. Kati does find love with a bookseller who is involved with another woman. She invites him to share her apartment. The night she loses her virginity is disappointing.