Boys and girls come of age in the rural Prussian province of Pomerania, experiencing the joys of Christmas, harvest time fun, and other activities and celebrations in the early Nineteenth Century. Based on a true story and grounded in historical and cultural research, the focus is on Maria, who faces life with dignity in the face of scandal. Enthusiasm for emigrating to the New World is spreading across the region, and people are sharply divided on how to respond. The Prussian army is being strengthened, and young men are swept into war. It has been a period of advancing progress for Prussia, but the citizens experience harm as well as benefit from the changes. This is a tale of courage and struggle, infused with hope and redemption. Illustrated with 14 black and white drawings based on historical research, and a map. A short novel, set in large print for easy reading.