The story’s protagonist, Korinna, is a 13-year-old girl living in Germany in 1942. A dynamic character, she evolves significantly throughout the story. Initially, she’s a loyal supporter of the Fuhrer’s Nazi regime. When she sees beatings on the street, she represses misgivings and feelings of compunction (which indicate her innate kindness and morality), convincing herself that the Nazis know what’s best for the Fatherland. Initially, she gladly attends her daily jungmädel meetings and excitedly tunes in to hear the Fuhrer speak. Accordingly, she’s furious to discover two Jewish people, Sophie and Rachel Krugmann, whom her parents have secretly hidden behind the wardrobe in her bedroom.

As Korinna spends time with the Krugmanns, particularly young Rachel, she begins to question the regime’s tenets, particularly that Jewish people are evil enemies of the Fatherland. As a result, she drifts away from her friend Rita, who is still committed to the Nazi cause. Korinna feels confused and conflicted but eventually realizes that her parent’s dissension is morally right. Her love for Rachel and her rejection of the Fuhrer’s ideology and friendship with Rita indicate the completion of her transformation. She sees past the intensely emotive and convincing propaganda, realizing that everyone has the right to freedom.