The Exiles finalize the renewal of the Covenant with God and Nehemiah re-populates Jerusalem, while organizing the sacrifices, the priesthood and Levitcal worship in the Temple.
The Jewish Exiles in Jerusalem became the "People of the Book" as they heard Ezra read the Word of God. They engaged the Word with their minds and emotions, which then resulted in obedience.
As Nehemiah and his people begin to rebuild Jerusalem's walls they face mockery, a conspiracy from their enemies, and discouragement, fear and exhaustion.