World War I ravaged the European continent, millions died from the great influenza epidemic, temperance reformers campaigned to outlaw alcohol, and an avalanche of newcomers arrived in America, all between 1914 and 1919. During this time of chaotic upheaval, Anna, a 15-year-old Lithuanian immigrant, strives for a new life in America. This means new clothes, moving pictures, public parks, and Saturday night dances. But also unscrupulous men and family tragedy. A job starts her on the path to independence from her overbearing mother and miserly brother. Challenges loom at every turn. She repels an attack by her supervisor. The police don't understand her when she tries to seek help for a friend because she can't speak English. She determines to learn. Visits to a settlement house turn bad when she discovers thievery and faces a threat on her life. As she surmounts obstacles, Anna progresses from pretty girl to beautiful young woman who holds on to her dream: finding a handsome, kind man with whom she can have a happy married life