How did Solomon's time in New York prepare him for his position in the Bolshevik party?

Why do you think Volodya and Masha were denied their visas for so long?

How did the Communist party change in their attitude towards Solomon?

What effect did the years in Russia have on the Slepak family (and extended family) situation?

What was the best way the world reached out to help the refuseniks?

How did Russia change politically from the beginning of the book to the end?

How did Russia change economically between the beginning of the book and the end?