Between Shades of Gray: Thieves and Prostitutes

Front

What does Lina observe as the train moves away from the station that indicates the bleakness of their situation?

Back

Lina observes a priest delivering last rites, suspicious men in dark suits, and abandoned luggage, food, and scattered personal items.

Front

Who was the leader responsible for the mass deportation of the Baltic states?

Back

Joseph Stalin.

Front

How does Andrius manage to stay with his mother during the deportation?

Back

Andrius's mother lies on his behalf to claim he is feeble-minded.

Front

What action does Elena take to keep her family together after arriving at the train depot?

Back

Elena bribes an NKVD soldier with a family heirloom (a pocket watch).

Front

What does Jonas begin to keep track of during the journey on the train?

Back

Jonas begins to keep track of dead children.

Front

What is the significance of the priest delivering last rites in the context of the story?

Back

It symbolizes the despair and hopelessness faced by the deported families.

Front

What role does deception play in Andrius's ability to stay with his mother?

Back

Deception is crucial as it allows Andrius's mother to protect him from being separated.

Front

How does the theme of family unity manifest in the actions of Elena?

Back

Elena's actions to bribe the soldier highlight the lengths to which she will go to keep her family together.

Front

What does the abandoned luggage represent in the story?

Back

The abandoned luggage represents the suddenness and chaos of the deportation.

Front

How does the character of Jonas evolve throughout the journey?

Back

Jonas evolves from a naive boy to someone who is deeply aware of the harsh realities of their situation.