It is the end of World War II, and the American soldiers still stationed in Germany are anxious to go home and move on with their lives. Two sensitive, young G.I.'s make the acquaintance of a little nine-year old girl named Gerta who gives them meaningful human interaction at a time when they are questioning the inherent goodness of human nature. Gerta provides a transition for the two soldiers from the hell of war to the kinder, gentler life to which they will soon be returning. She renews their faith in mankind and sparks their enthusiasm. Their story may make the reader ponder the wisdom of having men raise their sons in the aggressive, male-dominated world versus having their male children raised by women, who might emphasize a gentler outlook and a more humane solution to the world's conflicts and problems.