Ida and Beale, the shallow, narcissistic parents of 6 year old Maisie, are supposed to share custody by 6 month terms, according to the terms of their divorce. This arrangement soon deteriorates due to the parents' overriding desire, which is to undermine and punish each other, regardless of the effects on their child. Maisie suffers a great deal, but ultimately learns how to survive. Strikingly timely story, although more than 100 years old.