Chapter 14
What city do the children reach in this chapter?
Berlin
Who does Jan befriend in this chapter?
Jan befriends a chimpanzee named Bistro.
Who are the children trying to reach in Switzerland?
Their parents, especially their father, Joseph Balicki.
Why is Berlin described as "the city of the lost"?
It is filled with displaced people who have lost their homes, families, and hope due to the war.
How does Jan meet Bistro the chimpanzee?
Jan meets Bistro in a bombed-out zoo where the chimpanzee is wandering freely
How do the children manage to travel through the Russian zone?
They use cleverness, stealth, and rely on the kindness of strangers.
How does Ruth demonstrate her leadership in this chapter?
She keeps the group focused on survival, finds food, and reassures the younger children.
Why does Jan feel an instant connection with Bistro?
Jan feels a connection because both are survivors, lost and fending for themselves in a harsh environment.
What challenges do the children face in the Russian zone?
They face suspicion, danger, hunger, and the threat of capture.
What does the presence of the American Red Cross signify in Berlin?
It represents hope and relief efforts, but also the overwhelming need and desperation of the refugees.
How does Bistro the chimpanzee help Jan and the group?
Bistro provides companionship, helps scavenge food, and even lifts the group’s spirits during their difficult journey.
How does Ruth’s role as a caretaker evolve in this chapter?
She becomes even more protective, resourceful, and determined, often putting her own needs last to care for the others.
How does the chapter portray the psychological impact of war on children?
It shows their hardened survival instincts, mistrust, and the trauma reflected in their behavior and outlook.
What does Bistro symbolize in the story?
Bistro represents innocence amid chaos, the persistence of life, and the importance of companionship in times of hardship.
What does the Russian officer’s attitude towards the children reveal about post-war relations?
It shows a mix of suspicion, distrust, and a desire to help, reflecting the complex political and personal dynamics of the time.