When The World Was Ours

Elsa’s family and the rest of the Jews who live in Prague are sent to a tenement block to live in crowded and dirty conditions. Elsa makes the most of it; she is happy to be back with her friend Greta and grateful to be near her family, but everyone is always hungry and there is no running water. Elsa tries to remind herself that she is fortunate because she has a home to live in, even if it is crowded and dirty. She and Greta talk about what they hope to be when they grow up, and Elsa admits that she wants to stay home and raise children. Greta hopes to fight against Hitler as part of the resistance. Elsa treasures her friendship with Greta, as it is one of the few things that brings her joy. She thinks of Leo and Max and wonders whether they are safe or if they still think of her.

Leo and his mama get a letter from Papa, dated a year ago. Despite the date, they are relieved and elated to hear from him at all. The letter states that Papa is still in the camp but is happy and well-treated.