The Island on Bird Street

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of religious discrimination, graphic violence, bullying, illness and death, and physical abuse.

Henryk gets sick again; this time, Alex thinks it is typhus. For three weeks, Alex tends to him with cold water and rags. Henryk talks in his sleep, and Alex tries to shush him so they are not discovered. Finally, Henryk’s fever breaks. They decide Alex will cross to the Polish side to find Bolek, who will help Henryk leave the ghetto. Henryk makes Alex take money, which proves useful because this time, the doorman at Number 32 demands money to let Alex pass. Alex knows Bolek’s address, but he enjoys the beautiful autumn day first, shopping for groceries and walking in the park. He joins a group of boys playing football (soccer), and he plays goalie, helping them win. He then runs into the homework girl, accidentally knocking her down. They chat; her name is Stashya. Alex asks if they can be friends. She says yes, and they plan to meet next Monday.

Alex finds Bolek’s house. Bolek is astounded to hear Alex’s story. He agrees to help Henryk.