In pre-World War II Japan, a young woman named Suzu lives a simple and idyllic life in the coastal village of Eba, Hiroshima. Known for her vivid imagination and passion for drawing, Suzu helps her family with daily chores while indulging in artistic pursuits. When a marriage proposal comes from Shusaku, a man she barely knows from the nearby town of Kure, Suzu agrees and moves in with his family. Although initially struggling to adapt to her new environment and responsibilities, she finds solace in her drawings and slowly forms bonds with her new family, especially with her young niece, Harumi.

As wartime conditions worsen, Suzu's routine and outlook are challenged by shortages and increasing air raids. Her ability to maintain a sense of normalcy for her household is tested amid the growing hardships. Despite these difficulties, Suzu endeavors to bring hope and beauty into their lives through small acts of kindness and creativity. The narrative poignantly captures her resilience, the strength of community, and the emotional toll of war up until a crucial point in her journey.