"A Word, Only a Word Volume 1" by Georg Ebers is a historical novel set in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a forest, where we meet Ulrich, a lively young boy, and his kind-hearted friend Ruth. The two children have a conversation about the significance of words and magic while playing in the Black Forest. Their innocent discussion hints at deeper themes such as longing and the search for identity, especially Ulrich’s complex feelings about his mother and the world around him. In the opening portion of the novel, Ulrich and Ruth are gathering firewood and sharing their hopes of words with magical powers that could grant them wishes. Ruth longs for her mother to speak, while Ulrich dreams of adventure and status, enjoying playful fantasies. The narrative begins to touch on heavier themes, revealing Ulrich's troubled family life and Ruth's Jewish heritage, suggesting how social backgrounds shape individuals' experiences and relationships. As the children experience the innocence of youth, the story also hints at the storm approaching in both a literal and metaphorical sense. This sets the stage for the challenges and complexities the characters will face, particularly concerning societal prejudices and personal struggles.