Characters
The Plot
Rifka's Journey
Letters and Feelings
Miscellaneous
100

Who is Rifka’s brother who is protective of her during their journey?

Saul

100

What illness keeps Rifka from traveling with her family?

Ringworm

100

What does Rifka struggle with the most while she is separated from her family?

 Loneliness

100

What is the main purpose of Rifka’s letters?

To express her thoughts, feelings, and experiences while separated from her family.

100

What happened to the Polish baby Rifka was taking care of in Ellis Island?

She dies

200

Who is the girl Rifka meets in the hospital who encourages her to keep going?

The Polish Girl

200

Where does Rifka’s family go after leaving Russia?

America

200

Which country does Rifka stay in while being treated for her illness?

Belgium

200

Who does Rifka write letters to throughout the book?

Her cousin Tovah

200

How does Rifka prove to Dr. Fargate that Ilya should stay in America?

She makes Ilya read her Pushkin and prove that he is not a simpleton.

300

Who does Rifka write letters to throughout her journey?

Tovah

300

Where does Rifka go to get treatment for her illness while her family moves on without her?

Belgium

300

How does Rifka’s illness affect her ability to travel with her family?

She is forced to stay behind and can’t travel until she gets better.

300

How do Rifka’s letters help her cope with the challenges she faces?

They allow her to share her feelings and feel connected to her family, even when they are far away.

300

How does Rifka describe her physical features?

Blonde hair and blue eyes

400

Who is the family member who stays with Rifka and watches her care for the baby while detained in Ellis Island?

Mama

400

What was Rifka’s biggest fear when she was left behind in Belgium?

That she would never see her family again

400

What does Rifka learn about herself while being separated from her family in Belgium?

She learns that she is stronger and more independent than she thought.

400

What kind of feelings does Rifka express in her letters to her cousin Tovah?

Loneliness, fear, hope, and determination

400

What does Rifka ask Saul to get with the money she saved from Papa?

Candlesticks

500

Who gave Rifka the tallis before leaving her to get treatment in Antwerp?

Papa

500

What happens when Rifka finally reunites with her family? (think about the emotions)

She is happy and feels relieved 

500

What major change does Rifka go through during her time in Belgium?

She learns to face challenges on her own and becomes more mature.

500

In her letters, what does Rifka ultimately come to realize about herself and her journey?

She realizes that she is stronger and more capable than she ever thought possible.

500

Who is Pieter and what happens to him?

Pieter is the boy Rifka met on the ship she got on to travel to America. He cared for her and saved her during a huge tempest at sea. He passed away by going overboard the ship.

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