It is part of the Ostrobothnia book series and it tells the story of Martti Hakala about his experiences in the Winter War.

The Hakala brothers are placed in the infantry regiment 23, which was made up of people from Ostrobothnia, and was commanded by lieutenant colonel Matti Laurila [fi].

Before the outbreak of war, the regiment trains and participates in fortification works in the villages of Unnunkoski and Konnitsa.

After the outbreak of the Winter War, the regiment is ordered to the front line in the open field of Terenttilä in Metsäpirtti on Independence Day.

Shortly after returning from home vacation, Paavo dies by a direct hit from enemy artillery in front of Martti's eyes.

In 1989, a film adaptation based on the novel was released, directed by Pekka Parikka and starring by Taneli Mäkelä, Vesa Vierikko and Timo Torikka.