1930s. The Hitlerian clouds darken the sky of Europe. Political dissidents, Jews, people with different beliefs are driven to destitution. Expelled from their homes, they pass through border stations, checkpoints, and customs, wandering the dusty roads of Europe, desperately seeking a homeland.

Among them are Josef Steiner and the young student Ludwig Kern, who are arrested in Vienna and exiled. In their tragic journey, violence and hatred lurk. They walk the tightrope of existence in exile without losing hope. Steiner survives by selling laces and safety pins, while Kern falls in love with Ruth, a persecuted student of Jewish descent.

Remarque's heartbreaking novel highlights with unparalleled strength the humanity, kindness, and love that emerge from the barbarity of the Nazi regime. The love between Kern and Ruth gives them the strength to continue; it is the ultimate ray of sunlight in the darkness of the annihilation of human values.