From the liaison of a young German woman from Uckermark with a very Asian-looking Russian officer, an unwanted child is born in 1945. The young mother dies during childbirth, and little Alexandra is raised by her grandmother. Hunger and hardship shape this childhood and youth in East Germany. Yet, Alexandra grows into a resourceful woman who bravely navigates through life, despite all adversities. This book recalls the 'shame' that an illegitimate child represented in the past, especially one with an unusual appearance. It also inspires courage to fight through difficult life situations, just as Alexandra repeatedly does, refusing to be defeated.