In Brooklyn circa 1900, the Nolans manage to enjoy life on pennies despite great poverty and Papa's alcoholism. We come to know these people well through big and little troubles: Aunt Sissy's scandalous succession of "husbands"; the removal of the one tree visible from their tenement; and young Francie's desire to transfer to a better school...if irresponsible Papa can get his act together.
A missionary tries to outwit the U.S. government and smuggle Chinese orphans into the country.
After his plane is downed in the South Pacific, a Navy flier recounts his life to a co-pilot while awaiting rescue.
