Zara has her own little escape to the country in this novel. im sure its not the same for all but zara seemed to thrive and grow once in the country. she was a determined young girl. but was kind with it and her determination seemed mostly to make the world a better place. she get absorbed in her goals to help the war effort. this become especially true when she finds out something huge about her own identity. i thought this was a real thought provoke moment. because there is one thing knowing from the start of the danger that might be heightened because of who you are. but what if in the midst of war you suddenly find your are in so much more of a dangerous position simply for existing. i myself cannot imagine such fear from the revelation. and this then also helps you put yourself in the position of all the Jews. because to feel such danger, for simply being born must build a fear in you that is woven through your every move. and how frightened they all must have been during the war doesnt bear thinking about.
we all have fears. the worst possible outcomes that go through our heads. imagine all those coming true.... imagine all and so much worse being true just for being you. or how would you feel if you found out post war? you might relive the what ifs for the rest of time, or feel relief, im not sure.
i like Zara. she had more spirit than most you read about during this time. so often we read(obviously) about the fears and downsides of the time. but i loved her drive for making things better throughout and then post as she move into womanhood with gusto.