In the darkest days of WWII, nine-year-old Ria is determined that her mother give birth in a home filled with light. Despite the cold, harsh winter, German occupying forces have cut the supply of electricity to civilians all over the Netherlands. Now the whole population must scrounge for wood to heat their dwellings and make what light they can with the few available candles. At home in Friesland, Ria's father is in hiding. Her closest friend, Rachel, and her family have been taken away because they are Jewish. The local mayor is a Nazi sympathizer. And Ria's mother is about to have a baby and is afraid to give birth in a cold, dark house. Ria knows the risks, but she is determined to find a way to bring light into her family's home in time for the baby's arrival. Her bold plan may place others in danger, but, in carrying it out, Ria learns something that has the power to save lives.