When the Russians first invaded North Korea, Sookan and her family knew they had to escape. However, they thought that they needed a guide as well as mothers help along the way. Sookan proved them wrong and was also able to help her little brother escape as well. Sookan helps Inchun escape by instructing him what to do. She tells him to “Get down on all fours and stretch out your arms one at a time and try to grab onto the next rung” (162). This is referring to crossing underneath the railroad that led to South Korea. If Sookan had not instructed Inchun he may of died. However, being under a high pressure situation changed Sookan. She is now showing her leadership skills, in this case by telling Inchun what to do. As Sookan makes it into South Korea, she is astonished that she made it on her own. Sookan says that “Exhaustion and relief overwhelmed us” (165), Never did Sookan think she was capable of this in the