The Odyssey of a War Orphan is a vignette of an eight-year-old's struggle to overcome the effects of WWII. She ws adopted from an all girls' orphanage in war-torn Italy in the 1950's by a single, American teacher whose intent was to adopt a servant. Follow some of Maria's hair-raising adventures and escapades to accllmate herself to her new country-the U.S.A. She exemplifies, through grit, humor and determination, "The American Dream."