How does Josef’s mom’s attitude change when they leave the Havana (Cuba) port? What does she start doing and why does she say she’s doing it?
She goes from mourning Josef’s father/locking herself in her cabin and being sad, to fixing her hair and putting on party dresses and dancing. She does a 180º.
Who is Josef named after and why?
He is named after his mother’s brother (his uncle) who died in the Great War at the battle of the Somme in France. It is to honor his uncle and he looks like hi
What news do the passengers receive in the A-deck social hall?
That the United States has refused the Jewish refugee passengers and that they are heading back to Europe.
Describe Waleed’s disposition and possible explanations for it.
He is emotionless due to his horrible environment. It might be because he is bottling up his emotions and hiding them or because he is so used to all th
What does Pozner tell Josef and why does he want Josef’s help?
Pozner plans to take hostages on the ship and demand that the captain bring the ship close to the American coast. They need Josef’s help to find the bridge.
What happens to Isabel's boat?
It hits something sharp and it breaks and floods.
What do the people on Isabel's boat hear that makes them all jump? Explain.
The loud siren of the United States Coast Guard. They tell them they are violating US waters, to stay where they are, and prepare to board the coast guard ship.
What do Josef and Ruthie see from the St. Louis?
They see Miami, Florida, USA.
What emotions does Isabel feel when she sees Miami?
She is incredibly happy and excited, but feels guilty because Iván doesn’t get to be there too. She
What does the taxi driver demand from Mahmoud’s family and what happens?
He holds a gun to their heads and demands money. They pay him, get out of the taxi and are about half way to Hungary.
What happens at the border of Serbia to Hungary? Explain the situation and what people do.
The refugees decide torush through and say they want to get to Germany. The soldiers spray teargas and Mahmoud’s eyes burn.
What does Isabel decide to do and who helps her? How do the others react?
Isabel realizes the engine is incredibly heavy and weighing the sinking boat down, so she decides to kick off the engine.
What does Mahmoud say to his mom and how does she react?
He is sorry that he made her give up Hana but believes she would've drowned if they didn't. He promises to find her.
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