Billy Pilgrim, a mild-mannered optometrist from Ilium, New York, narrates his life story, characterized by his unusual ability to spontaneously travel through time. His experiences span significant periods: his harrowing time as a prisoner of war during the bombing of Dresden in World War II, his post-war suburban life, and his subsequent abduction by extraterrestrial beings from the planet Tralfamadore. The nonlinear structure of Billy’s life allows him to experience moments from his past, present, and future without any specific chronological order, providing a fragmented yet comprehensive view of his existence.

During his wartime imprisonment, Billy forms an unconventional bond with fellow American soldiers and endures the trauma of witnessing mass destruction and death. Interspersed with these bleak scenes are glimpses into Billy's everyday life after the war, where he becomes a successful businessman and family man. His abductions by the Tralfamadorians further complicate his perception of time and destiny, as they expose him to their philosophy that all moments in time are fixed and eternal. This philosophical insight profoundly influences Billy's outlook on life and death, infusing his story with a unique blend of absurdity, tragedy, and resilience.