Summary

This book does not portray any great feats of heroism as might be expected of a war book. Rather, it follows the three agonizing years of a group of terrified individuals who refused to knuckle under to the Germans and their horror-filled occupation of the Ukraine.

Though faced with almost insurmountable hardships, this small band--these guerillas--fought back as best as they could. Through the bitter winters, the starvation, the almost hopeless future, they never wavered in their determination to remain free.

The Nature of Their Struggle

Their battle was not fought on a large scale, nor were there any clear-cut victories. There were no headlines to herald them when a bridge was blown up or when a train was dynamited from the tracks. Their losses were suffered in silence, as were their victories.

Their Spirit

Bravery, heroic deeds, suffering, defeat and victory were absorbed in silent gratefulness that at least they still possessed life--a victory in itself, for it was the only thing they were fighting for, No lofty ideals or romantic causes, just life.