The story begins in Jerusalem in 1948 with Hind Husseini, a Palestinian woman who transforms her family home into an orphanage for children left homeless by the Arab-Israeli War. Over the years, Hind dedicates her life to providing a safe haven and education for the children, growing the orphanage into the Dar Al-Tifel Institute. Her efforts are contrasted with the rising tension and conflict in the region, underscoring the challenging environment in which she works.

In 1978, the narrative shifts to focus on a young girl named Miral who is sent to the orphanage following her mother's death. Raised under Hind’s care, Miral is initially sheltered from the ongoing political unrest. However, as she becomes a teenager, her growing awareness of the Palestinian struggle leads her to become increasingly involved in activism. Her journey is shaped by encounters with various people, testing her beliefs and convictions, and driving her to make difficult choices. Through Miral's eyes, we see the complexities of life in a conflict zone and the different paths available to those searching for peace and justice.