Monika Schreiber experiences a sheltered childhood in the post-war years. A deep respect for life and an even greater helper syndrome accompany her. She becomes a nurse. Then fate strikes in the form of a young man: marriage, children, and emigration to Tunisia as a development worker – caught up in it all. A culture shock ensues, and far from any civilization, she fights for the health and well-being of her family. Adventures follow in Ivory Coast, which is no easy task with three lively children. Only a period of study in Germany finally offers some rest and a normal daily life. But soon, it's back abroad again! Eventually, peace returns: a farm is rented, the now seven-member family settles down, and for a while, despite some worries, they live in a happy, idyllic world. A new beginning once more.