"Barefoot Gen" is an anime adaptation of Keiji Nakazawa's semi-autobiographical manga, set in Hiroshima during the final months of World War II. The story centers on Gen Nakaoka, a young boy living with his family in the war-torn city. Gen's father, Daikichi, is a pacifist who openly criticizes Japan's involvement in the war, leading to ostracization and hardship for the family. Despite the constant struggle for food and the oppressive atmosphere of wartime Japan, Gen remains resilient and optimistic, supporting his pregnant mother, Kimie, and his younger siblings, Shinji and Eiko.

As the war intensifies, the family faces increasing challenges, including air raids and the threat of starvation. The narrative reaches its climax on August 6, 1945, when the atomic bomb is dropped on Hiroshima. The bombing devastates the city, killing thousands instantly and leaving survivors to grapple with unimaginable suffering. Gen and his mother miraculously survive the initial blast, but the aftermath is harrowing. They witness the widespread destruction, the agonizing deaths of burn victims, and the long-term effects of radiation. Shinji and Eiko perish in the bombing, and Daikichi is killed while attempting to rescue others from their burning home.

In the days and weeks following the bombing, Gen and his mother struggle to rebuild their lives amidst the ruins. They face ongoing hardships, including the birth of Gen's baby sister, Tomoko, who is born with health complications due to radiation exposure. The story portrays the resilience of the human spirit as Gen takes on the responsibility of caring for his family, scavenging for food, and helping others in need. Despite the overwhelming tragedy, Gen's determination and hope for a better future remain central to the narrative.

The anime explores themes of survival, the horrors of war, and the enduring impact of nuclear weapons. It provides a stark and unflinching depiction of the Hiroshima bombing, emphasizing the human cost of conflict. Through Gen's experiences, the story highlights the importance of peace and the resilience of those who endure unimaginable suffering. The characters are deeply human, with their struggles and triumphs serving as a poignant reminder of the consequences of war.