I Am David

12-year-old David endures a grim existence within the confines of a concentration camp, where suffering is his constant companion. The memory of his loving mother and his only friend, Johannes, starkly contrasts with the horrific daily realities he faces.

Among the cruel guards, one commandant exhibits compassion towards David. Recognizing David's struggles, he ensures the boy receives vital provisions and devises a daring escape plan, which includes supplies like soap, bread, water, and a compass.

Following the commandant's plan, David prepares to escape, aiming for Salonica. In a twist of fate, he unknowingly boards a truck heading to his intended destination, marking the beginning of his adventure.

Upon reaching Salonica, David seizes the moment to leap off the truck and discover food. Soon after, he spots a boat labeled 'Italy' and sneaks aboard, beginning a new chapter in his journey as he hides from the crew.

As days pass aboard the boat to Italy, David hides and consumes wine, becoming increasingly intoxicated. An Italian sailor eventually spots him but rather than reporting him, he shows kindness and provides a lifebelt to aid in his escape.

Upon arrival on land, David awakens, refreshed and curious about his surroundings. He begins to explore the local town, eager to experience life beyond the brutal confines of the camp and receives a loaf of bread from a kind stranger.

As the weeks pass, David adapts to his newfound freedom, learning about the world while shedding the hardened persona formed in the camp. He fabricates a story of working with a circus to explain his multilingual abilities.

David's journey takes a turn when a chance encounter with Carlo leaves him injured. However, he finds redemption when he heroically saves Maria from a burning building, demonstrating his bravery and sense of justice.

While recovering in Maria's home, David becomes captivated by a stunning globe, igniting a curiosity about the world beyond his harsh past. His bond with Maria deepens, but her parents remain suspicious of David's mysterious background.

Feeling the tension with Maria's family, David writes a heartfelt letter expressing his feelings before leaving again. Restless and uncertain about his place in the world, he sets out once more in search of belonging.

Weeks later, David is surprised to find an advertisement in a newspaper inviting him back to Maria's family home. This unexpected opportunity reignites a sense of hope and belonging within him.

Amid his turmoil, David encounters a priest whose wisdom offers him guidance. The priest reminds him that despite differing beliefs, there is one divine presence, instilling David with faith and resolve as he continues his journey.

As winter sets in, David finds himself bound to a rugged farmer who forces him into harsh labor. The cold becomes both a prison and a refuge, but he finds companionship in King, a loyal dog who remains by his side.

In a desperate bid for freedom, David digs a tunnel in the stable wall to escape from the farmer. Tragically, King sacrifices himself to distract the guards, enabling David to slip across the border to Denmark unseen.

Exhausted but determined, David travels to Copenhagen, searching for his long-lost mother. Finally, he arrives at her doorstep and, upon their heartwarming reunion, he feels a flood of recognition and love, marking the start of a hopeful new life.