Belarus, in Soviet times. Irina is an unremarkable young woman growing up in an orphanage. One night, a mysterious visitor demands to see her and her best friend Julia. The latter goes first, then Irina is told she won't be needed after all. The next day, Julia has vanished without a trace... Thus begins a quest for truth and vengeance, from Minsk to Moscow to Washington - one that will lead Irina to discover her true calling.
Life has never been dull for Billy and his dog Buddy, but ever since the circus arrived in the neighbourhood, it's been getting better and better. There are crocodiles, ostriches, penguins, elephants... There's little Vittorio and his pet chameleon... And of course, Caroline the tortoise and Buddy's dog friends are still here. Oh, yes, quite the merry gang all right - and one who occasionally drives Billy's parents mad!