Jerusza had seen the baby glowing, even then, a light in the darkness no one knew was coming.”
-- Narrator (chapter 1)

Importance: The “darkness” in this statement is World War II with the Germans setting out to eradicate the entire Jewish population. Jerusza believes the baby (Yona) will be important which is why she kidnaps her. The lessons Yona learns from Jerusza ensures the survival of a large group of Jews.

Life in a village would be easier, but we take the risk of living in the woods because it gives us a bigger life, here under the stars.”
-- Yona (chapter 4)

Importance: This is Yona's statement as part of a conversation with Jerusza about their choices in life. Jerusza teaches Yona these concepts but always seems derisive when Yona uses them.

Even after years of being told by Jerusza that mankind was not to be trusted, the words shook her to the core. She had referred always...
-- Narrator (chapter 5)