In 1907, a young David Schearl and his mother, Genya, find themselves on a steamer, leaving Ellis Island behind as they approach the shores of America. They are reuniting with David’s father, Albert, who had come to the United States prior to them. However, unlike the jubilant reunions around them, Albert’s demeanor is starkly cold, marked by accusatory remarks towards his wife and son.

The Schearls' Struggle with Alienation

As new arrivals in an unfamiliar land, the Schearls navigate the challenges of an alien culture. Within their family, however, lies a deeper disconnect, particularly between father and son. David, a child thrust into a foreign world, embarks on a journey to find his own sense of belonging and meaning as he grows older.

Mother's Shelter from Father's Coldness

By six, David’s reliance on his mother is not only a source of comfort but also a shield from Albert’s disdain. Genya, with her serene beauty, contrasts sharply with Albert’s distant and suspicious nature. At odds with the world, Albert’s greatest fear is being ridiculed or deceived, stemming from his insecurities about his foreignness. David, keenly observant, notes how Albert’s foreman, Luter, uses flattery as a means to be near Genya. David also endures unsettling experiences—a disturbing encounter with a local girl and a harsh beating from his father.

Early Awakenings and Confusions

In a Hebrew school known as the cheder, David’s mind is sparked by Rabbi Yidel Pankower, a figure of both comedy and tragedy. Rapidly absorbing knowledge, David is particularly intrigued by a passage in Isaiah involving a fiery coal. Despite his curiosity, he is unable to ask about it at school, and at home, his mother offers a simple explanation of God as an all-powerful, radiant being.

Passover and Mystical Encounters

On Passover, with no school to attend, David heads to the East River and becomes lost in contemplation of God’s brightness. His reverie is interrupted by three boys who lead him to place scrap metal on train tracks, promising magic. The resulting blinding light terrifies David, merging in his mind with the concept of divine power.

Seeking Friendship and Understanding

Struggling to fit in with the neighborhood boys, David discovers solace on the rooftop, where he observes Leo Dugovka flying a kite. Leo, confident and friendly, introduces David to new concepts, like the Cross and the Mother and Child. Eager for Leo’s friendship, David visits Aunt Bertha’s candy shop in search of skates but finds none, prompting a visit to Leo’s home.

Unraveling Secrets and Uncomfortable Deals

At Leo’s flat, David is drawn to a picture of Jesus and a rosary. Leo’s curiosity about David’s cousins leads to a bargain: the rosary in exchange for meeting the girls. Though uneasy, David agrees, resulting in Leo’s success with Esther, only for them to be discovered by Polly.

Consequences and Unfounded Accusations

Fear of implication torments David, and during Hebrew school, he unravels into a web of lies, claiming his mother is deceased and his father a Gentile musician. The rabbi, perplexed, visits David’s parents, exacerbating tensions as Nathan blames David for the incident with Esther. Albert’s suspicions grow, believing David might not be his own son, despite Genya’s protests.

Fleeing Turmoil and Seeking Divine Proof

With Bertha’s arrival, a fierce argument erupts among the adults, driving David to flee. Overwhelmed by memories and fears, he decides to recreate the earlier light by placing a metal dipper on the tracks. This reckless act results in a powerful electric shock, attracting a concerned crowd. Though shaken, David is unharmed, and even Albert shows a flicker of relief.

Respite in Dreams

As night falls, David anticipates the solace of sleep, where he can escape reality. In his dreams, past experiences—both joyful and painful—become vivid once more. Although life is overwhelming, in sleep, David finds a place where he can momentarily triumph over his fears.