It is 1940, and Ronnie Warren is a street-smart 11-year-old living with his mum in south London while his father is away fighting with the army. Ronnie's story starts during the Blitz, when he climbs bravely through bomb rubble to rescue his mother and his aunt. Evacuated to Lancashire, he stands up to a sadistic teacher and embarks on a pre-teen romance. Back in London, his mum hears that her husband is missing, presumed killed. Ronnie believes she has fallen for a GI and makes a fool of himself - but patches things up. VE Day brings joy mixed with grief for Ronnie, knowing that his dad is dead - but a surprise telegram brings unbelievable news.