Perspective
Characterize Rifka at the beginning of the story.
1. Scared of her environemnt
2. Joyful for the opportunities to come
3. Nervous and shy for what is to come in America
In what ways does Rifka use reading and writing to cope with the challenges brought on by her new life?
It helps her feel safe and makes her feel a sense of comfort and joy because she is able to enjoy thinking of the memories.
How does this provide a unique perspective on the narrative?
1. Written in letter form
2. Personal narrative
Based on what you have read so far, why might Karen Hesse have decided to write a historical fiction novel about immigration from Russia to America during this time period instead of writing a purely informational nonfiction text?
During this period of time the Holocaust was happening, a very difficult time for Jewish people.
What is Rifka's cousin's name?
Tovah
How does Rifka view the world at the beginning?
1. Scary her hometown treats her very poorly.
2. Sad and distraught she feels like it is unfair.
3. Dangerous people were being killed during this time.
What does Pushkin's book of poems symbolize for Rifka?
It serves as a reminder of where she came from and where she is heading
How does this influence the story and our understanding of it?
How do Rifka's experiences and words, expressed through her letters, impact your understanding of immigrating to America during this time period?
It shows the different emotions and challeneges an immigrant faces when coming to America.
What caused Rifka to become bald?
Ring worms
How does Rifka's experience in Poland compare to her experience in Belgium?
In Poland, living conditions were very difficult and dangerous. People were treated horribly and had little to no respect. In Belgium, Rifka has met many people who show her kindness.
How does Rifka's perspective change in Belgium?
She is more content and realizes there is more kindness in the world then she may have thought.
Why might Karen Hesse, the author of the book, have chosen to write the book in this way?
To make sure we understand the challenges that the protagonist and her family may be facing.
Each chapter starts with a...
Pushkin (poem)
What is the name of an individual who is coming from a foreign country to permanently live somewhere else?
Immigrant
What does Rifka learn from each of these experiences?
Kindness dwells and does exist.
What type of book are we reading?
This book is historical fiction, meaning that it uses fictional characters and is inspired by real events.
How might the book be different if it were not told through letters?
It would be more like a novel and less personal.
Why is losing her hair particularly difficult for Rifka?
It makes her feel beautiful, without she feels misplaced.
Who in Rifka's family were they meeting in America?
Her three older brothers.
Characterize Rifka at this point in the text (at the end of Letter 10).
She is happy and appreciative of the people and her environment; it is more joyful.
What did the Milkman do to help Rifka?
He helped her when she was lost with directions.
What have you noticed about Rifka's confidence?
She is becoming more outspoken and confident along the journey.
Why is writing letters important for Rifka's journey?
(answers can vary)
What religion does Rifka and her family practice ?
Jewish