The Rudomins and the Kaftals settle into life in Nina and Nikita’s hut. Esther and Grandmother explore the hut and yard while everyone is at work, and in time the family members take up regular chores there. Nina asks Raya for a cross, and Raya explains that they are Jewish and do not wear crosses; Nina doesn’t believe that they are Jewish because they do not live up to stereotypes.

On two occasions, Grandmother and Esther notice that some of their bread has been stolen. They are distracted from the mystery by the first snowfall. Esther is enchanted by the snow, but Raya and Samuel worry about the coat and boots she will need. Tasting the snow, Esther is overcome by memories of Vilna.

The night before Esther goes to school, she is the “center of attention” as her family and friends prepare her (95). Esther is excited to go but worries about how she will fare without her cousins. Esther and her mother arrive at school and meet the principal. Esther admires the school building and begins “to feel a little warmth in this ice-cold Siberia” (97).

Early the next morning, Esther wakes up before anyone else and goes to the outhouse.