steps by wicked steps

7/31/2019 Steps by Wicked Steps

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Notes for teachers and other adults from Anne Fine

When it was first published, Step by Wicked Step took some reviewers' breath away. But

it was hard to argue an author shouldn't write about a state of affairs that affects so manyof our children. And, at heart, I think the adults who read the book simply shared the

same shock I felt when, after walking my children to school under a giant billboard that

declared, "Since You Passed This Poster Yesterday, Another 400 Children Were Affected

by Divorce", I began researching the subject of what is often called 'reconstituted'

families.

I knew from the lives around me that parental separation was only the beginning of the

complications for children. Often the really tough time comes when one parent or the

other sets up home with someone new, and the children aren't ready.

We have six stories in the book. Only five could be fitted into the radio adaptation - and

even that was a squeeze. Both book and radio adaptation has the structure of boxes

within boxes. The children's school visit to Harwick Hall provides both the outer frame and

the explanation for why all five children should just 'happen' to be from broken families.

Richard Clayton Harwick's long-hidden journal provides an inner tale that triggers off, one

by one, each of the stories of the listening children.

I quite deliberately made the toughest emotional tale that of the Victorian child, RichardHarwick. Set in the past, with all the protagonists now lying safely in their graves, any

child disturbed by the sheer antagonism between the prototypically overbearing and

unfeeling stepfather and the young grieving Richard can comfort themselves that this sort

of thing is part of 'history'.

Those of us who know better - including a host of young readers whose depth of feeling

and unhappy circumstances may mirror Richard's more than we care to think - can take

the story more at its emotional face value.

I've been a shade more protective in the other stories, sometimes by showing things well

on the way to a happy ending (Claudia and Pixie's stories), or by showing how the sheer

determination of a child can give strength and purpose (Colin's story). Ralph's story is a

robust one from start to finish.


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Source: www.annefine.co.uk/stepnotes.phpaccessedDate access: 6th July 2010

I've tried to be honest about the lack of choices most children are offered, and the lack

of real opportunity to speak frankly and openly about their feelings and situations to the

adults around them. To this end, I've shifted through scores of perfectly normal 'case

studies' of families after divorce, and picked what I worked out was a fair cross-section

of scenarios and emotional states.

If adults reading the book or listening to the adaptation are startled by this, I think the

only thing that I can say is, 'Look around you, and listen' because none of these stories

is particularly unusual. (Colin's seems saddest, of course; but, from the numbers of

runaways on our streets, I think we can assume that even Richard Harwick's story is

commoner, even now, than we'd care to imagine.)

The book's been a great success in schools. There is, of course, the 'autobiography'

element which can be mined to advantage. (Each child has a very distinct story-telling

outlook and style.) The mix of sexes in the stories works well with classes of all sorts.

The sheer 'domestic' element of the tales ("Our family's not like that." "My family is.")

keeps up the interest.

But, from the letters I get, what really seems to touch a nerve about Step by Wicked

Step is the depth of the children's feelings. All too many tales for young children

assume far too narrow an emotional range. Many children do enjoy 'fun', yes. But all of

them, like adults, lead complicated and demanding emotional lives, often lived in

strained and stretched families.

In giving five of them so intimate and honest a voice, Step by Wicked Step empowers

all who share the story. It was, emotionally, one of the hardest books I've ever chosen

to write. But I only have to read the letters of children responding to it, to be glad I kept

at it.

Update: since Anne Fine wrote these notes, Collins Educational havepublished the playscript. This is an entirely fresh adaptation, and not thebroadcast version.


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SYNOPSIS

It is a wild and stormy night when five British school children from Mordanger

School arrive ahead of their classmates for a week-long field trip at "haunted" Old

Harwick Hall. With the aid of flashes of lightning, the two girls Claudia and Pixie and

three boys, Robbo, Ralph and Colin find a long-abandoned secret room containing a

mysterious journal. On the cover, it reads, Richard Clayton Harwick My Story. Read

and Weep. From the journal, the children uncover the story of a boy who runs away

from the sinister influence of a loveless stepfather. Richard Clayton Harwick's long-

hidden journal provides an inner tale that triggers off, one by one, each of the stories of

the listening children, all of whom also have "steps," or step-parents, to share their own

sagas. And what engrossing, heart-rending stories they are: of hurting but still

humorous children picking their way through a minefield of embittered oruncommunicative or just plain immature parents, insecure or reluctant step parents and

resentful step siblings. However, the lack of a principal plot is of no consequence as the

novel main purpose is to serve as a forum for the various stories. "Step by Wicked

Step" proves that all pain eventually heals and that we have the power to change things

for the better.


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E lements

STEP BY WICKED STEP NOVEL

PLOT SUMMARY

This novel is really five stories within a story that are induced by a story, like a

nesting puzzle. So, we have six stories in the book. There may be a lack of a principal plot

here but it is of no consequence as the novels main purpose is to serve as a forum for six

various stories of Richard Clayton Harwick, Claudia, Colin, Ralph, Pixie and Robbo.

In Step by Wicked Step, five boys and girls find themselves in an old house on a

stormy night. In a hidden tower room they discover an old diary, that of Richard Clayton

Harwick, who left behind a journal account of his wicked stepfather. Read and Weep, says

the spidery writing on the cover of the book.

After Richard Clayton Harwicks father passes away, he was sent to Mordanger

School for four long years. He wishes to burn Mordanger to ashes as to him, theres no

meaner place on earth than this boarding school. When he returns to Old Harwick Hall, he

could not get along with his wicked and loveless stepfather, Reverend Coldstone. Being

robbed of all his precious tokens from home, Richard makes the decision to leave and

become a cabin boy when a great ship strains at the tide. His decision has caused anguish

in his mother and sister, who have spent a fortune seeking his return. He did not return to

see his mother or sister until he read a square print from Riddle & Flook which requested

him to claim his ownership to Old Harwick Hall. By then, Richard knows that his stepfather,

mother and sister have passed on. Only then, he realises his decision to leave has changed

the lives of his family members.


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Harwick's story prompts Claudia, Colin, Ralph, Pixie and Robbo to tell their own tales

of stepfathers, stepmothers, and stepsiblings, who are in turn eccentric, beloved,

unwelcome, and almost always misunderstood. Each vignette* is a wonderful study of

human nature. As the lightning flashes, the children begin to relate their own tales of step

parents, stories that are full of warmth and humour, yet with a fair share of sadness.

At first it seems the children could have nothing in common. Sports-mad Robbo,

quick-witted Ralph, sensible Claudia, fiery Pixie and dreamy Colin seem as different to each

other as it is possible to be. Yet they soon find they have one thing in common, and that they

are all the products of broken homes and they once have a turbulent relationship with a

step- or steps- Below are the five stories in steps by wicked steps spin off from Richard

Clayton Harwicks My Story. Read and Weep. As Ralph says, Stories dont have to be

written, he reminded Claudia. This is the night for stories. Off you go, he reiterated.

*vignette n. /vin-yet, v n-/ descriptive passage within a larger work(French, little vine)


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Here are the brief description of the vignettes of Claudia, Colin, Ralph, Pixie and Robbo.

Story within step by wicked step

Colins Story:The Bluebird of

Happiness

Colin and his mother left

his father when he was a

few weeks old. His mother

takes up with a person

whom he thinks of as his

father. However, his

immature mother also

leaves this stepdad after a

while. Now he misses him

so badly that it hurts.

Ralphs Story:

A Tale of ThreeStepmothers

Ralph's life, though

merry, is as

complicated as a

maze as he has

three stepmothers

and many step-

family members.

Claudias Story:Green Pyjamas

After Claudias parentsdivorce, Dad finds a

girlfriend, Stella. Claudiafeels disloyal to her mumwhenever she has a goodtime with her father and hisnew girlfriend. Even thoughStella tries her best to beaccepted by Claudia and

her daddys friends, she isbeing ignored. Finally,

Claudia realises herrudeness and she comes

out of her closet by wearingthe green pyjamas given byStella.

Pixies Story:The Pains in my Life

Pixie has to deal with two really

irritating stepsisters and a father

who pretends he doesn't notice how

difficult things are for her. One day

her stepmother ( Lucy) and Pixie

have a fight. They pour out their

frustrations. Only then they realise

that it is all because of Pixies fatherwho is selfish, always pretending

he didnt notice things, and leaving

them for Lucy to sort out the mess.

Robbos Story:Dumpas the Problem

Robbo and his sister, Callie always

think that the birth of their

stepbrother, Dumpa has caused

numerous problems between them

and their step father, Roy. When the

relationship between Robbos

mother and Roy is on the rock,

Robbo realises that Roy does notmove on because Dumpas the

problem. Finally, Robbo realises

that his mother is always stuck in

between when Callie and Roy

quarrel. This has caused mum and

Robbos stepfather to be upset.


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CHARACTERS

Name of character Descriptions/ Attributes/ Personality

Robbo School pupil, sports-mad especially football

Ralph School pupil, quick-witted, hardworking and occasionally likes to

intercept impolitely during a conversationColin School pupil, longs to be reunited with his stepdad, dreamy as

he drifts through the hours of each school day as if his thoughts

were hundreds of miles away and this drove his teachers to

despair

Claudia Steady, sensible, did not get along well with her stepmother at

the beginning

Pixie Fiery, a good reader, selfish

Richard Clayton

Harwick

Owner of Old Harwick Hall, lost his father at a very young age.

His mother remarries the priest, Reverend Coldstone whose

wrath Richard cannot stand. He runs away, without knowing that

he has made a decision that will change three lives; his

stepfathers, mothers and sisters. When he inherits Old

Harwick Hall, he has lost his three closest members of the

family.

Rev. Coldstone Richards wicked stepfather, strict and cold-hearted

Mr. Plumley A staff of the school who accompanies the children to Old

Harwick HallMiss O Dell The school teacher who picks five of the children on a trip after

a quick glance at her list.

Mr. Digby Gardener at the Harwicks household

Lucy Maid at the Harwicks household

Charlotte Richard Clayton Harwicks sister.


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OTHER CHARACTERS IN THE VIGNETTES

VIGNETT Character

1. Claudias Story : Green Pyjamas Dads girlfriend, Stella, who is a cook

2. Colins Story : The Bluebird of Happiness Colins immature mother

Colins endearing stepdad (Jack ) who

calls him many nicknames.

3. Ralphs Story : A Tale of Three

Stepmothers

First stepmother, Annabelle

Second stepmother, Janet

Third stepmother, Flora

Stepdad, Howard

4. Pixies Story : The Pains in my Life Pixies stepmother, Lucy

Two stepsisters , Sophie and Hetty

Payne

Pixies dad, whose lackadaisical

attitude towards his family makes

things difficult for the family to come

together as a happy one.

5. Robbos Story: Dumpas the Problem Roy ( a.k.a The Beard), Robbos step

dad.

Callie, Robbos sister who hates The

Beard

Dumpa, Robbos newly born step

brother

Robbos mum, Hope

SETTING

1. The haunted house of Harwick.

2. Domestic households of Claudia, Colin, Ralph, Pixie and Robbo.


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VALUES

1. It is important that children should tell their parents about their real feelings and viceversa.

2. One has to be brave when facing adversities.

3. We must not judge someone without knowing all the facts. We should weigh ourpros or cons, and study the facts.

4. Adults or parents should be more thoughtful in making decision as it would affect thelives of their children.


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Solemn, SadEvidenceA dreadful silence fell upon ourhouse. The maids wept in corners,my mothers dark dresses

billowed as she hurried across

landings, impatiently snatching from

the servants hands the things she

begged my father to lift his head

from the pillows and try : poor thing

indeed! A sip if water, a slice of

peach, a tiniest fragment of dry

toast.

Male dominated settingEvidence

Mr. Coldstone is controlling

everything inside the house.According to Richard, all of us

suffered Mr Coldstones anger and

There was a flash of anger in

those ice-blue eyes. And, when he

spoke, his voice was even sharper

than mine, with, I sensed, far more

practice.

Trust me, he warned. I shall take

time to mend your manners soon.

Richard Clayton Harwick camefrom a rich family.EvidenceHe had a gardener, George and amaid, Lucy.

All he( Ralph) could tell from

looking round was that, when it

was left to spiders all those years

ago, the last child to sleep in that

high, ornate bed came from a

family with a mint of money.

STEP BY WICKED STEP SETTING/WORKSHEET 1

This is Old Harwick Hall. In each bubble, write out the setting which you canidentify from the story.

Mood

Protaganist

Background

O ld H arwick H all

Place

Time

Physical detailsSocialSetting

in an old mansionEvidencea jagged, stone tower, strangled byivy.a towering mansion with dunce-

hatted turrets Long time agoEvidenceThe dust lay thick on shelf anddesk and chair, on lantern andcandelabra, on books and cushionseven on the floor, where the brashpatterns pressed by the soles oftheir shoes made them feel evenmore like trespassers. It is quiteobvious to every one of them thatno one had stepped in this room aslong as anyone alive could possibly

Old Harwick HallEvidenceno bell at the doorblack and white tiled floor.has floor-to-ceiling looking glass.


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STEP BY WICKED STEP SETTING/ HANDOUT 1

Another brilliant flash lit up a jagged, stone tower, strangled by ivy.

Is that it?

No, that's the old church.

They'd all heard about the ruined church. It was forbidden ground, and if you were caught

climbing on its perilously steep slopes, you were sent home, even though this was a school

week. All they could see of it from the minibus as they swept by, was a dark silhouette oftumbled stone.

Cripes! the driver said suddenly, stabbing at the brakes.

Everyone turned from the side windows and stared ahead.

There it is!

Strick!

Through the arcs of the wipers, they could make out a towering mansion with dunce-hatted

turrets, standing black against storm clouds. Moonlight flickered eerily against its dark

windows.

(pgs 1-2)

The heavy drapes, the plain dark coverlet, the framed old maps surely even his frail and

nodding great-grandmother had spent her childhood in a brighter room than this. All he

could tell from looking round was that, when it was left to spiders all those years ago, the

last child to sleep in that high, ornate bed came from a family with a mint of money.

(p. 9)

C hunks of the S tory


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It was the Reverend Coldstone. It was not Sunday, but still I wished him back in his dark ivy-

smothered chapel.

Sir, I am in a hurry.

He gripped my arm tighter, and loomed over me. His pale face peered in mine. He was

dressed black as a bat, and ( Ill say it fearlessly, now he has done his beat to beat the fear

out of me) he was no more welcome than one of those sinister, misbegotten creatures in my

mothers pretty morning room.

(p. 16)

Then he stepped back. There was a flash of anger in those ice-blue eyes. And, when he

spoke, his voice was even sharper than mine, with, I sensed, far more practice.

Trust me, he warned. I shall take time to mend your manners soon.

(p. 17)

... all of us suffered Mr Coldstones anger as money slipped steadily away. What! Yet

another costly search! Let the ungrateful boy be lost for ever! Lilith! Waste more of your

dwindling fortune on this folly and I will make you pay for it twice over!

And so he did. Last year she died ( of him too close, and you too far). And, from the day

that she was buried, he would not give a penny to look for you

( p. 28)

Here, out of the driving rain, they exchanged battered rucksacks and brand new holdalls asthe driver took off in a spray of wet gravel, and their teacher stared miserably at the huge oakand iron door.

Ring the bell, Mr Plumley, prompted Claudia.

What bell?

Quite right. No bell that anyone could see.

(p. 3)

The door grated open, over a black and white tiled floor that looks like a huge checkboardglazed with storm water.

(p. 4)

Poor Mr Plumley had marched straight into a giant floor-to-ceiling looking glass that reflected

the wide curve of stairs sweeping out of the shadows behind them.

(p. 4)


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When I was young, my father took a fever. Day by day, everything changed. A dreadful

silence fell upon our house. The maids wept in corners, My mothers dark dresses

billowed as she hurried across landings, impatiently snatching from the servants handsthe things she begged my father to lift his head from the pillows and try : poor thing

indeed!

( p. 15)

- but early one evening I came across George the gardener leaning heavily on his

spade, and took the courage to ask him.

Mr Digby. Is my father dying?

He lifted his head and stared.

Oh, Master Richard! he said, pushing the spade aside and crushing me into his breast.

And then I knew.

That night, Lucy the maid came in my mothers room to hear my prayers and say

Goodnight, God bless

(p. 15)

Is that it?

No, thats the old chapel.

Theyd all hear about the ruined chapel.

( p.2 )

The dust lay thick on shelf and desk and chair, on lantern and candelabra, on books

and cushions even on the floor, where the brash patterns pressed by the soles of their

shoes made them feel even more like trespassers. It is quite obvious to every one of

them that no one had stepped in this room as long as anyone alive could possibly

remember.

(p. 9)

Ralph gazed at the cobwebs glinting in the moonlight.

(p. 9)


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STEP BY WICKED STEP SETTING/WORKSHEET 2

Write the title of a chosen vignette, the setting in the book and the one in which you live in.State how are the two settings alike and then list four ways in which the settings differ ( forexample, the climate, landscape, location, flora and fauna, culture, history and economy).

Richards MansionMy House

It was built like a castle turrets, mansion Condominium unitSpacious, many rooms Three rooms, living rooms on the same floorWithout much love Cosy, worn with loveFilled with history of ancestors of the samelineage.

History of only one generation in pictureframes on the console tables

Overly lavish, proof of overabundant wealth Moderate, rich only with love and history ofchildhood of the past

How are they different

( a setting in the book ) (the setting in which you live)

How are they alike

TITLE OF THE VIGNETTE: _________________________

T heres N o P lace L ike H ome


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STEP BY WICKED STEP VOCABULARY/WORKSHEET 3

Write a word from the novel inside the robots head. Find the definition of the word as it isused in the sentence and write the definition on the right boot. Use a thesaurus to find foursynonyms and write them on the left hand. Find four antonyms and write them on the righthand of the robot. Draw a picture of the word on the robots body. (If the word is a feeling, anadjective or idea, you may illustrate it using an emoticon, cutting from the newspaper ormagazine, etc)

V ocabulary R obot

I think they had

another little spat last

night . ( p. 112)

argument

quarrel

dispute

outburst

disagreement

talk

agreement

consensus

acceptance


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SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT

Write two characters in the two boxes given. Discuss the character traits of the chosencharacters. Are there any similarities or differences? Write two similar and different traits inthe empty spaces provided. Provide evidence to justify your answers.

Richard Clayton Harwick

1. Adventurousas he went sailing across the oceans ( p. 25)

2. Protective as he once said, And I would not harm Charlotte for the

world, nor let another try it.3. Rebelliouswhen Rev . Coldstone insisted Richard to stay but the

latter answered, Sir, I am in a hurry.4. Remorseful as he wept after reading Charlottes letter.(p. 28)5. Wild as this was how Mr Coldstone describe Richard (p. 19 )

COLIN PIXIE

HAS AN IMMATURE

MOTHER

DREAMY

- He driftsthrou h the

SELFLESS

- He asks for cashinstead of

COULD GET ALONG

WELL WITH STEPDAD,

JACK

HAS AN IMMATURE AND

INDIFFERENT FATHER

FIERY

-her stepsisters drive her up

the wall

SELFISH

-Id have a bedroom to

m self

COULD NOT GET

ALONG WELL

WITH STEPMUM,

LUCY


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The protagonist takes many steps in his/her life. Write the steps that he or she has

taken from the start to the end of the story.

The character that I have chosen is _____________

NAME OF CHARACTER : RICHARD HARWICK

The First Step - Exposition

Richards father dies.

The Second Step - ConflictHe notices that his mother is having an affair with the Reverend Coldstone. TheReverend is in fact living in their house and taking responsibility as a stepfather.

The Third Step Climax

His house was like a tomb. Richard leaves the house. He feels that his presence is

not wanted by his mother.

The Fourth Step - Resolution

He returns to his home upon seeing the advertisement asking him to come back.He finds a letter From Charlotte. He feels remorse and is contemplating whether tostay or leave.

T race the S teps

The First Step ( Exposition )

Robbos parents divorce and mum

marries the Beard, Roy. Robbos

sister, Callie does not get along well

with stepdad, Roy. The situation

worsens when his stepbrother,

Dumpa is born.

The Second Step ( Conflict or Problem )

Mum and Roy have constant arguments.

This is because Mum has to be the

umpire between Callie and Roy. As a

result of that, their relationships are on

the rock.

The Third Step ( Climax )

Third Step - Climax

Roy and Callie have a big row. He also finds

out that Rob is also having a hard time trying to

fit in, just like Callie trying to come to terms with

steps. Robbo realises that Dumpas the

problem why Roy did not leave them.

The Fourth Step ( Resolution )

Robbos sister decides to

move to his Dads house to

give Mum and stepdad, Roy

a breather.


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STEP BY WICKED STEP THEME/WORKSHEET 9

Put a tick ( ) in the blank column if the main idea can be found in all the six storiesor vignettes.

Themes

1. Peer pressure

2. Love and care

3. Teenage problems

4. Effect of parental divorces

5. Family relationship

6. The virtue of tolerance 7. Coping with a new member of the family

8. The need to express your views

9. Child abuse

10. Friendship

Put a tick ( ) against each story which has the given theme. Then choose asignificant idea that has been introduced by the author which has left a deepimpression on you. Give reasons for your choice with supporting information fromthe novel.

ThemeStories of:

RichardHarwick

Claudia Colin Ralph Pixie Robbo

Broken Family

Being brave

Coping with change

Think before making a decision

The need for tolerance

The most significant idea that impresses me in Step byWicked Step by Anne Fine is

______________________________________________________________________

M ain I deas


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STEP BY WICKED STEP THEME/WORKSHEET 10a

WHATS THE PROBLEM?

No. Story Problem

1 Richard Clayton Harwick My Story.Read and Weep

He could not get along with his stepfatherand so he ran away from home.

2 Claudias Story : Green PyjamasClaudia feels disloyal to her mum whenevershe has a good time with her father and hisnew girlfriend. Claudia becomes hostiletowards Stella, disregarding all the latterseffort to warm up to her.

3 Colins Story : The Bluebird of

Happiness

Colin and Mum leave Jack, the only father

figure Colin ever knew. This causes him to

miss Jack so badly that it hurts. He is stillpining for Jack and hopes to save enough

money one day so that he can be with his

stepdad again.

4 Ralphs Story: A Tale of ThreeStepmothers

He has to deal with too many step familymembers and relatives as a result of hisimmature parents decisions.

5 Pixies Story : The Pains in My LifeShe has to deal with two really irritatingstepsisters and a father who pretends hedoesn't notice how difficult things are for

her.

6 Robbos Story : Dumpas TheProblem

Robbo and his sister, Callie always think

that the birth of their stepbrother, Dumpa

has caused numerous problems between

them and their stepfather, Roy. When the

relationship between Robbos mother and

Roy is on the rock, Robbo realises that Roy

does not move on because Dumpas theproblem. Finally, Robbo realises that his

mother is always stuck in between when

Callie and Roy quarrel. This has caused

mum and Robbos stepfather to be upset.


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STEP BY WICKED STEP THEME/WORKSHEET 10b

Instructions:

1. Choose a character from the novel.2. Find a picture of a person from a magazine or newspaper that best suits the

description of the chosen character (or you may draw a picture of the character).3. Paste or draw picture in the box given below.4. Write out (from the first persons point of view) the problem faced by him/her in the

speech bubble provided.5. Display your work on the wall/notice board.

Picture of the character

P i x i e _________________________

(Name of character)

W hats the P roblem?

M y pr obl e m is nobody seems to be think ing about me

s o I a l w a y s f i g h t w i t h m y s t e p s i s t e r s , S o p h i e a n d H e t t y

P a y n e . O n e d a y I h a d a b i g f i g h t w i t h m y s t e p m o t h e r ,

L u c y . W e p o u r o u t o u r f r u s t r a t i o n s o f h a v i n g t o a c c e p t

n e w m e m b e r s o f a f a m i l y . A f t e r a h e a r t - t o - h e a r t t a l k

w i t h h e r , I r e a l i s e t h a t i t i s a l l b e c a u s e m y f a t h e r w h o i s s el f i s h , a lw a y s pr e t e n ding h e di dn t n ot i c e t h i n g s a nd w h o

w o u ld j u s t d e c i d e t o s t a y s a f e l y o u t o f t h i n g s , a s u s u a l

leav ing bo th Lucy and I to sor t ou t the mess .


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1. Richard ClaytonHarwicks story

Read and Weep

3. Colins story

The Bluebird of

Happiness

4. Ralphs story

A Tale of Three

Stepmothers

6. Robbos story

Dumpas the

Problem

5. Pixies story

The Pains in My

L i fe

ACTIVITY 11 : THEME IT ALL

Discuss with your partner. For each vignette in the novel Step by Wicked Stepchoose a theme.

2. Claudias story

Green Pyjam as

Family unity

The nucleus of moral values, the family unit, is being invaded by outsiders (step orsteps) and this causes disharmony.

Family relationships

Coping with new family members, for example Pixie understands that her new stepmotheris having as much trouble adjusting as she is.

Dealing with adversities

Young children and adults may find difficulties dealing with frustrations, fears and sadness.

Being happy

Life has dealt us one hard blow, there is no reason for us to be unhappy for ever. Forexample, Claudia realises it is not fair to hate her new stepmother, Stella.

Think long enough before making a decision

Richard Harwick made a rash decision to run away and that had changed the lives of hisstepfather, mother and sister.

Sibling rivalry

Resentful step-siblings cause burden and hostility in a home.

Coping with change

All pain eventually heals and that we have the power to change things for the better.

Being brave

Characters like Claudia and Pixie are brave as they confess to their own rotten behaviour.


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STEP BY WICKED STEP ASSESSMENT/WORKSHEET 17a

RICHARD CLAYTON HARWICK MY STORY Read and Weep

Answer the following questions based on Richard Clayton Harwick My Story: Read

and Weep. Write your answer in the space provided.

1. Where was the minibus taking the five pupils to?

Old Warwick Hall

2. Dont even want you coming up their garden path to give them a free paper!What does this line suggest?

The setting of the old haunted hall was so unfriendly and completely uninviting; evenif one was to go there to distribute free things.

3. How does the author describe the pupils on pages 1 and 2?

The author uses the expression ...leftover pupils... perhaps to mean that they hadbeen herded into the minibus when the school bus had been too crowded.

4. Theyd all heard about the ruined chapel. It was forbidden ground...... (p. 2).

Why do you think the school authority forbid children from going there? What is thepunishment if they are seen there?

The chapel has dangerously sleep slopes and could be dangerous for the children. Ifseen there, the children will be sent home for a week even if there was school.

5. What is the literary device used in the following expressions: fronds of strangeplants....fingeredthemas they passed, ornamentschattered...

Personification of these items

6. Pixie preferred safety in numbers.What is the author trying to convey in the above line?

Pixie, like the other children, was probably scared to be in the building and the stormout there was not making things any easier too. Hence, they preferred to be togetheras numbers proved it is safer.

7. Who discovered the door in the wall? Where did the door lead to?

Colin discovered the door and it led into a tiny room ( A tower off a tower)

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8. ....the tangled veil of stretched and broken cobwebs...What does this tell us about the room?

Nobody had entered the room for a very long time.

9. What evidence was there in the room to suggest that the last child to sleep in thattiny room was from a very rich family?

The heavy drapes, the plain dark coverlet, and the high ornate bed gave theimpression that the room had belonged to someone from a wealthy family.

10. Why did the children rush to pretend to sleep when they hear the bus in thecourtyard?

If Miss ODell found them asleep in the same room, she would not separate them.

11. What were Pixies reasons for them to be together in one room?

She was upset because they had been taken out of the school bus and furthermore,she did not want a bed next to Shreela.

12. What was Ralphs reaction to the finding of the album?

Ralph seemed emotional that someone had actually been brave enough to writeabout his personal issues and this had given Ralph and his friends an opportunity topeep into their life.

13. What was Miss ODells reason for the five children to be together in the minibus?

Miss ODell felt that the five must have had something in common to be chosen to be

together in the minibus.

14. Why do you think Richard adds the line Read and Weep to the title of his album?

The story of his life, as he writes it, is sad and reveals of the pain of the knowledge ofhis dying father and the intrusion of Mr. Coldstone into the family.

15. How does Reverend Coldstone treat Richard?

He is harsh towards Richard, demanding the young boy to be in his best behaviour.

16. What is Richards reaction to his mothers request No tears, my dearest. just as heis about to visit his father?

When Richard is told not to cry, he is anguished because he has been weeping withthe knowledge that his father is about to die.

17. What was Richard distressed about after visiting his ailing father?.

That his father had told him to take care of his mother and sister but had notmentioned about Richards need / happiness at all. Richard feels that his ownhappiness is not counted for.


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18. Why does Richard stamp on his fathers grave?

He wishes for his father to wake up from the grave and tell him that all things in thehouse has gone wrong since the fathers death. That he (Richard) had practicallybecome a stranger in his own house.

19. What does Richard overhear his mother and Coldstone talk about?

Coldstone remarks that Charlotte is giddy and that Richard is wild. However motherdoes not defend them.

20. Richard was sent to Mordanger after his mother marries Mr. Coldstone. What isRichards attitude about school then?

He thinks that the school is an evil place he has only learned to freeze, starve andbe beaten and bullied there.

21. What message does Charlotte convey to her brother about their mother?

She tells her brother that their mother is doing all this to make Richard grow upstrong and manly.

22. What does Richard accuse Charlotte? What is Charlottes reasoning for thisaccusation?

He accuses her of forgetting their fatherShe reasons that the father is dead and gone and that there should be no reason forthem to be unhappy forever.

23. Why does Richard feel that it would be best for him to leave the family?

His mother would find life more pleasant without his sulks and scowling facereminding him of how she was a traitor to her fathers memory and Charlotte wouldsurely learn to live again.

24. What is the common feature that all five young children have?

They all have a second home address.

25. A lot of difficulties were faced by Richards family after his disappearance. Whatdoes that teach us about making decision?

No one should make decisions that will change the lives of everyone around themwithout thinking about it for a long time ( or any other acceptable answer )


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STEP BY WICKED STEP ASSESSMENT/WORKSHEET 17b

CLAUDIAS STORY GREEN PYJAMAS

Answer the following questions based on Claudias Story Green Pyjamas. Write

your answer in the space provided.

1. What did Claudias mother moan about her dad?

She complained that he spent all his time running the caf and hardly ever see him.

2. Why were Mum and Granny in a rage late one night after a flood of phone calls?

They had a huge row with Dad and for the first time, they heard about Stella.

3. Why didnt Dad dare to come near the house after the phone calls?

He thought Mum might kill him.

4 How does Stella look like, according to Claudia?

She looks sort of plain and mousy.

5. What would Stella do when Claudia goes out for tea with Dad?

She would spend hours reading in the bedroom, and the rest of the time keepingbusy in the kitchen.

6. Read the extract below and answer the following question.

What about Flora?

Shes very well, thank you.Stella would try again.

I dont know Flora, do I?

And Id just stare down at my plate with a look on my face that said, plain as day: Whyshould you? Youre nothing to do with me. Youre not my mother. Why should you know

anything at all about my friends. If I wanted butter, Id ask Dad to pass it , even if Stellawas closer.

(p. 40)

Based on the extract above, what do you think of Claudias behaviour? Do you thinkshe should behave in such a manner? Give a reason to support your answer.

H ave I understood?


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She is rude. She should not be rude as Stella is trying to be nice to her. /She may be rude. She has every reason to be so. No one could accept a stepespecially when Claudia, who is trying to come to terms with her parents divorce notlong ago / or any acceptable answer

7. What couldnt Claudia bear when she was having a perfectly normal time with Dadand Stella?

She could not bear to sit there having a perfect normal time with Dad and Stella whileher Mum was at home frantically cleaning out the gerbils, or rinsing the glass walllight shades under the taps, or hosing mud off the steps.

8. What did Stella buy for Claudia as a late Christmas present?

A pair of green pyjamas.

9. Why was Claudia guilty of saying Yes I enjoyed it when she gets home to her Mumsplace from the weekend with Dad?

She did not want to hurt her mum the way her Dad had.

10. Why did Claudia hate Stella?

She hated her because if Stella had not come along, Dad would have stayed with herand Mum.

11. Why did Stella say, Tucked up in bed in your nightie? (p. 61)

She noticed that Claudia had not worn the green pyjamas she bought for the latter.

12. Wish me luck, she said. And I realized for the first time that she was nervous. Whatwas Stella nervous about and why?

She was nervous as Dads friends would be watching her closely, wondering if theywould like her, trying to work out why Dad had left home for her, and if shed be awicked stepmother to me.

13. What did Stella do when she set the tray across Claudias knees?

She tucked Claudia in bed as if she were a baby.

14. What did Claudia do behind the giant ferns?

She was eavesdropping the conversations throughout the meal.

15. What did Claudia find out about the things that Dads friends talk about?

They talked about everything but not a word about Mum, or Dad, or Claudia or Stella.

16. How did Dads friend treat Stella?

They treated her as if she were some kind of ghost.


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17. What did Claudia feel about the way dads friends treat Stella?

They were plain rude.

18. The way dads friends treated Stella made Claudia make a huge decision. What wasthat decision?

She decided to get to wear the green pyjamas Stella bought her and got to the diningroom to join in the supper.

19. What did Dads friends do after Claudia addressed Stella by her name for the veryfirst time?

They began to talk to her / Mary asked Stella where she had found such lovelypyjamas while George said it was clever for her to get the right size for Claudia.

20. From the story, what did Claudia find out about Stella?

She was nervous to meet Dads friend / She has given time to Claudia and Dadsfriends to accept her ( or any acceptable answer)

21. What did you learn from Claudias story? Justify your answer with textual evidencefrom the text.

Life has dealt Claudia one hard blow but there is no reason for her to be unhappyforever. She has to move on to be happy. She came out from behind the fern, andstood in her pyjamas at the top of the stairs, where everyone could see herorShe didnt bother to eavesdrop more than a few minutes longer. This indicates that

Claudia has come out of her hiding ( from reality) and she needs to move on ( or anyacceptable answer )


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STEP BY WICKED STEP ASSESSMENT/WORKSHEET 17c

Colins Story : The Bluebird of Happiness

Answer the following questions based on Claudias Story Green Pyjamas. Write


1. How old was Colin when his mum leaves his real father?

His mother left his father a few weeks after he was born.

2. What is the reason Mum gave about her separation from Colins real father?

She said that he was a bit of a rough-house and they were safer away from his realdad.

3. Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow:

Then she took up with my dad. I call him that because he came when I was eight months

old, and I dont remember anytime before that. He looks a bit like me, anyway. His hair

is dark, like mine, though he has silver patches over his ears. He knows the words ofpractically every song youve ever heard, and he rolls his own cigarettes out of tobacco in

a tin. And he cant sit on a park bench without every dog in the world coming up to sayhello to him. Sometimes they even try to follow him home.

(a) How does Colin describe the similarity between him and his new father?

Both of them have dark hair.

(b) From the extract, what are some peculiar habits of his new dad?

He knows the words of practically every song and he rolls is own cigarettesout of tobacco in a tin.

(c) In your opinion, what makes the dogs try to follow him home?

The dogs likes him / He is friendly and likeable / Dogs can sense a good man/ Anyacceptable answer

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4. What are the various names Colins stepfather (whom he now called Dad) has forhim?

He claims that his father has a billion names for him including Col, Collie, Sonny-boy,Buster and Mr Bluebird.

5. Where does Colins mother work after they had moved out from the flat?

At the school canteen

6. In your opinion, why does Colin keep calling his stepfather as Dadinstead ofstepdad?

He does not feel as though his stepfather is not his real father for Jack is the onlyfather he has known.ORHe accepts his stepfather as his real father because this father treats him like hisown son.


I didnt finish with him. I pretended. Each night I took the tobacco tin out of the toe ofmy boot, where I kept it hidden, and put it under my pillow. Then, very softly, so Mum

wouldnt hear, Id hum our favourite song. And, when I was ready, I unscrewed the lid.There were only a few old shreds of tobacco in there, but still

Again he stopped, and glanced around at them. They were all staring back.

Claudia was even bit ing her lip. But no one was laughing at him.So bravely, he went on.But still, it smelled the same. It was like burying your head in his woolly. Or

squashing up in the chair, to watch telly. And Id pretend that he was there with me.And I could talk to him, just like before.

(a) Why does Colin hide the tobacco tin inside his boot?

He does not want his mum to find out.OrHe is afraid that his mother will find out that he still thinks about his father.

(b) How does the smell of tobacco remind him about his Dad?

His father likes to roll the cigarette and the smell of tobacco will remind Colinabout him.

(c) Why do you think nobody is laughing at Colins story?

Even though they know what Colin has done is a bit weird but they feel sorryfor him. It feels real and upsetting that Colin cannot reunite with his Dad.ORThe others can relate to his feelings.


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(d) Do you think Colin can accept the fact that his father is no longer staying withhim? Why?

No, he keeps doing things that his Dad used to do like taking out the tobaccotin and humming their favourite song. ( or any acceptable answer )

8. What does Colin do to show that his Dad matters a lot to him and will still be hisDad? ( refer to p. 61)

He will always secretly sneak his fathers name and their old address onto all theforms for school.ORHe is still saving up money in order to find him one day.ORAny acceptable answer

9. In your opinion, why does Ralph stop addressing Colins father as a stepdad at theend of the story?

After listening to Colins story, Ralph finds that Colins stepfather deserves to becalled dad because he has treated Colin well.OrColin really loves him.OrRalph is assured that Colins Dad is like a real dad.

10. When did Colin last see his Dad? In your opinion, can Colin find his father someday?Give a reason to support your answer.

Five years ago. Colin will / will not find his father someday because( acceptany reasonable answer ).

11. Do you like Colin? Give two reasons to support your answer.

Any acceptable answer.


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STEP BY WICKED STEP ASSESSMENT/WORKSHEET 17d

Ralphs Story - A Tale of Three Stepmothers

Answer the following questions based on Ralphs Story - A Tale of Three

Stepmothers. Write your answer in the space provided.

1. When does Ralphs mother get her hair trimmed?

The third Saturday in the month.

2. Why was Pixie confused after Ralphs explanation?

There were too many details.ORShe could not keep up with the series of days when Ralph stayed with his Mum andDad.ORRalph had too many relatives and his story had too many details.ORThere were too many names to remember.

3. How did the lunch boxes help Ralph to remember where to go?

If he was carrying a Mickey lunchbox, it meant that he was supposed to go home tohis mother. If he was carrying a Dumbo lunchbox, it meant that he was supposed togo to his dads placeORRalph would look at his lunchbox and he would know which house to go to; Dumbomeans Dad and Mickey means Mum.

4. Who came up with the lunchbox idea?

AnnabelOR

Stepmother Number One

5. Why were Ralphs brothers fed up with Annabel?

She went with them everywhereORShe never left them alone with their dadORThey thought it was unfair that she spent so much time with their dad.

H ave I understood?


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6. Why did Ralphs father stop listening to jazz?

Annabel disliked jazz.ORHe wanted to please Annabel.

7. Why did Brandy go with Ralph to his dads house?

Their mother was varnishing floors and she didnt want Brandy to leave paw markson the newly varnished floors.

8. Explain the incident that had caused Annabel to be so angry that she decided toleave dad.

Brandy the cat curled himself up comfortably and sat on her bread dough. Yet Dadstood up for Brandy. Annabel said that the cat had a malevolent aura and the quarrelcontinued. A while later, Annabel ran off with someone who thought he was adescendant of King Arthur.

9. Why did George think their dad had found Janet ( Ralphs Stepmother Number Two)in a Gaol?

She was strict like a prison warden. OR She was very keen on rules.OR She had rules for everything.

10. Why do Ralphs parents fond of Janet?

She brings order to their family OR She is good at planning and scheduling things

11. Why did Janet leave Ralphs parents?

Ralphs parents took advantage of her.

12. Why did Ralphs mom stick to Janets schedule even though Janet was not a part oftheir lives anymore?

She thought that it was too good to give up OR the schedule was helpful to her.

13. How would you describe Flora?

Free spirited OR Disorganized OR Vibrant personality OR Extroverted

14. Why was Flora more acceptable to Ralph and his brothers as compared to the other

two stepmothers?

Accept any reasonable answer with justification.


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STEP BY WICKED STEP ASSESSMENT/WORKSHEET 17e

PIXIES STORY THE PAINS IN MY LIFE

Answer the following questions based on Pixies Story: The Pains in My Life. Write


1. Why did Pixie call the Payne family The Pain?

Pixie found that they were awful and they drove her up to the wall.

ORShe disliked her stepsisters, Sophie Payne and Hetty Payne.

2. What was the agreement made by Dad and Lucy to Pixie when they buy the house?

They agreed that she would have her own bedroom.

3. What made Hetty move from her sisters bedroom?

They had a big fight and Hetty smashed her sisters little glass animals.

4. In what way did Hetty drive Pixie mad?

Pixie hated the way she cocked her head on one side and fiddled with her hair.

5. What was the first try made by Pixie to get Hetty out from her room?

She tried haunting Hetty by making some noise between the two beds

6. What present did Pixie give to Lucy during Christmas?

Soap

7. How would Pixies Mum react if she realises something is missing at her home?

Whenever she notices something is missing, she just keeps on and on at her about it

until Pixie brings it back.


And as for you! I thought you were supposed to be an intelligent girl! But you sti ll

manage to walk round this house as if you sincerely and honestly believed that withoutme and Sophie and Hetty, everything in your life would be hunky-dory!She threw up her hands.

H ave I understood?


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(a) What is Pixies feeling in the above extract?

Remorseful OR Sad OR Apologetic

(b) Why did Pixie wish that she could come and live in her fathers house all thetime?

When her mum kept going on at her. ORShe was unable to endure her mums nagging.

(c) What, on the other hand, makes Pixie want to go straight home and nevercome back?

Whenever Hetty teases her about her name.

(d) From the extract, what does the word itmean?

Staying with her Dad, Lucy, Sophie and Hetty.ORThe idea of coming to her fathers house.

(e) In your opinion, why does Pixie hate anyone who calls her Priscilla?

She feels that the name does not suits her.11. Read the extract below and answer the question that follows:

So now were back exactly how we were before. Except that everythings different. Imnot pretending any more. Everyone knows how I feel and I know how they feel. Were

not playing Happy Families said Pixie.

Based on the above extract, how did Pixie and her stepmother resolve theirdifferences?

By not pretending anymore OR By saying out how one feels ORBy having a heart-to-heart talk

Lucy, what I said about not wanting to come except for not hurting Dads

feelings, thats not exactly true. Sometimes, when mums going on at me, I wish I

could come and live here all the time. So I cant hate itthat much. I blew my

nose again. Its just that, whenever Hetty teases me about my name, or

something, I want to go straight home again and never come back.

Teases you? About your name?Calls me Priscilla.Lucy looked baffled.How is that teasing?My tears welled up againPriscilla! I wailed.

( p. 100)


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STEP BY WICKED STEP ASSESSMENT/WORKSHEET 17f

ROBBOS STORY - DUMPAS THE PROBLEM

Answer the following questions based on Robbos Story - Dumpas The Problem.

Write your answer in the space provided.

1. How old was Robbo when his dad and mum decide to split?

6


Dad came back a lot, and Mum would send Callie and me out in the garden, while they

stayed in the kitchen, arguing and arguing. Callie kept going back inside to try to makethem stop. But I just stayed out there, kicking the ball to myself, over and over. And after

a bit, Dad stopped coming round, and we had to start visiting him at his new place

instead. I didnt mind, but Callie hated it. She said that it was cold and nasty and horrible,and the sheets felt funny. She tells me things I never realised, but, once shes come out

with them, I know theyre true, and I cant understand why I didnt work them out formyself in the first place.

(p. 105 )

(a) Who came frequently to visit Robbo, Callie and Mum?

Dad

(b) Why were Callie and Robbo sent out to the garden when Dad came?

Dad came to discuss with Mum and it always turned into heated argument sothey did not want Callie & Robbo to hear it.ORTo allow their parents to settle their problems.

(c) What did Robbo and Callie do when they were sent outside?

Callie tried to make her parents stop fighting while Robbo would kick the ballto himself, over and over.

(d) Why do you think Callie hated visiting Dad at his new place?

Callie said that Dads place was cold, nasty, horrible and the sheets felt funny.

H ave I understood?


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(e) In your opinion, why did Dad stop visiting them?

He was tired of arguing with Mum.ORHe did not want to upset the children.

3. Who gave the nickname The Beard to Roy?

Callie

4. What was Callies first negative remark about Roy?

Our dad went out to work for years and years to pay for a nice house and all thefuniture, and now.The Beards moved in and taken everything, and its not fair.

5. Since Dumpa was born, Callie hated Roy even more. Why did Callie behave in suchway?

Roy was always giving orders/instructions to Callie and Robbo, plus he acted like hewas their biological father.

6. Read the extract below and answer the question that follows:

Dumpas the problem, you see, hes only three. And hes the sweetest child in the whole

world. Even Callie admits it. I never thought anything about babies till Dumpa was born. I

thought that they were just boring. But when Roy took us to visit Mum in the hospital, hescooped this tiny knitted bundle out of its little swinging plastic tub, and put it in my

arms. And suddenly i t sneezed-the neatest little sneeze you ever heard and its eyespooped open in surprise, and it stared up at Roy peering over my shoulder.

(p. 106)

What was Robbos opinion about babies before Dumpa was born?

He just thought that babies are boring/He thought nothing about them.

7. What makes Mum say that Dumpa is definitely his dadas son?

Whenever Dumpa hears Roy returns home through the gate, he will struggle andleave whatever he is doing just to be with Roy.

8. Why did Robbo feel like cheering the moment he knew Roy has returned home?

Robbo could not stand listening to Dumpas whimpering since Roy left home temporarily.

9. How did Callie know that Roy is lying about his sick mother?

She noticed that Roy had rushed off to hospital without a phone call and there wasno phone call from Roy. She only heard lots of hissy whispering, and Mum had redeyes and she was more polite to Dad on Saturday morning.


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10. Who was responsible behind the idea of reuniting Mum and Dad?

Callie


Ask your dad if hed like to have you for a couple of extra days over half-term.

Tell your mum if she needs some new tyres on that car of hers, I know a man who getsthem very cheaply.

Dont forget to take the spare fruit cake round to Daddys house.

Why dont you give Mummy these plant cuttings Anne Sue left me? I know Ill nevermanage to make them grow.

Callie was getting pretty confident now.But I wasnt nearly so sure. I reckoned there was still a big difference between the two of

them trying to get along like reasonable people, sending each other unwanted fruit cake

and plant cuttings and things, and their wanting to get back together in the same house.(p. 111 )

(a) What was Callie confident about?

She was confident that her Mum and Dad will be reunited soon.

(b) What was Robbos view about the incident above?

Robbo felt that there was a big difference between people trying to get alongand people wanting to get back and living together.

12. What had happened between Callie and Roy on Dumpas fourth birthday?

A big or heated argument happened between Callie and Roy

13. What were Callie and Roy arguing about?

Roy caught Callie trying to push her bike down the narrow space between thebushes and his car. Roy warned Callie to stop or she might scratch his car.

14. Why did Mum refuse to let Callie do as instructed by Roy?

Mum understood or knew Callie better and Callie could not be instructed all the time.OR Callie was stubborn.

15. Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow

Because shes not my daughter? Is that it? He dropped Callies wrist as if it hadscorched him. Well, let me tell you something, Hope. If Im good enough to get uphalf an hour earlier than I need every morning to drive her to school, and goodenough to work overtime to pay for repairs to the roof over her head, and goodenough to trail round the supermarket for her favourite foods, then Im goodenough to stop her carelessly scratching my car!(pgs. 113-114)


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(a) What is Roys tone in the above incident?

Angry OR Upset OR Impatient OR Furious

(b) Do you think Roy is doing the right thing in the above incident? Give a reasonto support your answer.

Yes, because he had done his part to take care of Callie.OR No, he should not be physical when teaching a child as stubborn as Callie.OR Any acceptable answer.

16. Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow

But I was wrong. Callies next words came out so muffled that neither of us couldhear them properly. But they came out. Mum stopped the patting and looked atme. What did she say? Sometimes you have to take a risk to finish the game. Itook a deep breath. I think she probably said she wants to go and live with Dad.Mum looked as if Id slapped her. But Callie doesnt even like your fathers place!

She says its cold and gloomy, and not like a real home at all. Callie just buriedher head deeper in Mums lap. So, once again, it was up to me.(pgs. 123-124)

(a) Why couldnt Callies words be heard properly?

The way Callies uttered her words are not clear OR muffled OR soft ORalmost whisper. OR She was sobbing

(b) What does Robbo mean when he said, Sometimes you have to take a risk tofinish the game.?

One has to make drastic decision OR risky decision to put things back in order.OR One has to make painful decision for a happy ending. ORSomeone must sacrifice if one wants a happy ending.

(c) Why did Mum feel like Robbo had slapped her?

When Robbo mentioned that Callie might want to move in with DadOR She didnt believe what Robbo have said about Callie.ORShe was taken aback by what Robbo had saidn about Callie wanting to go and livewith Dad.

Callies decision to live with Dad.

(d) Do you think Callie has made a good decision? Give a reason to support youranswer.

Yes, Callie would rather stay with her Dad than to be unhappy living with Roy.ORNo, Callie should learn to be more forgiving and understanding. ORLife has dealt us one hard blow but there is no reason for us to be unhappy forever.


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Compare two characters in the novel you have studied. How are they similar and different?Compare and contrast two characters.

The novel I have chosen is Step by wicked step written by Anne Fine. Colin and

Claudia are the two characters I have chosen to compare and contrast. Although they are

two differing characters, they also have some similarities.

Both Colin and Claudia come from broken or separated families. They both have

step parents. Colins mother has left his biological father and `took up with Jack. Jack is the

only father figure Colin ever know. However, Colins mum leaves Jack after a while. This

causes him to miss Jack so badly that it hurts. On the other hand, Claudias father has left

her mother for another woman, Stella. She feels disloyal to her mum whenever she has a

good time with her father and Stella. Both Colin and Claudia really want their parents to

reconcile as they pine for how it used to be when they were happy.

Colin and Claudia also do not adapt to the drastic changes their families undergo.

Colins unwavering loyalty and want for his dad to be back and Claudias misguided loyalty

to her mother shows that these two characters find difficulties dealing with changes. There

are frustrations, fear and sadness. Furthermore, both Colins and Claudias mothers do not

take their emotions into consideration. It is as though everything is only happening to them,

and will never have an impact on the children.

However, Colin and Claudia are markedly different individuals. They deal with the

changes in their respective families differently; Colin is portrayed as a boy always pining for

his father even after five whole years. However, Claudia becomes hostile towards the new

lady in her life, Stella, disregarding all the latters efforts to warm up to her.

Both Colin and Claudia have different personalities too. Colin is a dreamer who

dreams of an ideal life where his dad and mother will be together forever and happy. He

secretly keeps his fathers tobacco tin and saves money so that he can look for him one

day. This makes him too depending on his stepdad and emotionally attached to him. This is

probably due to the fact that he needs love from a man called father. Claudia is more of a

sensible and rational person. After seeing her dads friends ignoring Stella and judging it as

rude, she goes to compliment Stella on her stellar choice of green pyjamas. Claudia is more

independent and is not afraid to voice her opinions. Unlike Colin, Claudia is brave in coming

to terms with her parents separation. She is independent and not afraid to voice heropinions.

Even though they experience broken family relationships and find it difficult to accept

changes, the way Colin and Claudia accept new additional member of the family is different.

They have different views in accepting reality and this has made the story more inspiring and

colourful.

H ave I understood?


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G lossary

STEP BY WICKED STEP NOVEL

astonished v. amazed

Aura n. a distinctive but intangible quality that seems to surround a

person or thing; atmosphere:

Brash adj. self-assertive in a rude way

Candelabra n. traditional term for a set of multiple decorative candlesticks,

each of which often holds a candle on each of multiple

arms or branches connected to a column or pedestal.

Cripes punc. Old-fashioned slangan expression of surprise

Dandelion n. a Eurasian plant (Taraxacum officinale) of the composite

family having many-rayed yellow flower heads and deeply

notched basal leaves.

Doddery adj. slow and unsteady

Dolefully adj. sorrowfully, mournfully

Droning adj. speaking tediously in a dull monotonous tone

Dwindling n., v. becoming gradually less

Firebrand n. a person who causes unrest or is very energetic

Forlornly adv. Pitifully sad and abandoned or lonely

fudging v. to make or put together dishonestly or carelessly

gaol (Brit.) n. jail

Horrid adj. causing a feeling of horror

malevolent adj. wishing evil or harm to others

Malevolent adj evil

Midshapen adj. badly shaped; deformed

misbegotten adj. unlawfully obtained; badly conceived, planned, or designed

moonbleached adj. white like the moon

Niggling adj. petty, especially in a nagging or annoying way; trifling or

overly concerned with details; exacting and fussy.

Palpable adj. able to be touched or felt

pock mark n. a crater-like scar left on a person's face, normally caused


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by acne.

Rapturous adj. experiencing or manifesting ecstatic joy or delight

Ratty adj. dilapidated; shabby.

reckoned v. expect, believe

ridiculous adj. pathetic, silly

Rivulets n. small streams of liquid

scorn n. contemn, despise, disdain

Seraphic adj. of or resembling a seraph (a celestial being having three

pairs of wings); blissfully serene; rapt

seraphic adj. angelic, angelical, cherubic, sweet

Shrubbery n. an area in a garden planted with shrubs.

Sinister adj. giving the impression that something harmful and evil is

happening or will happen

Sliver n. thin, narrow

Snide adj. expressive of contempt; critical; sneering

Snigger v. a disrespectful and quiet laugh

Snorted v. an explosive sound made by the sudden forcing of breath

through a persons nose, used to express indignation,

derision or incredulity

Spindly adj. weak or lacking solidity in construction

Unhinged v. mentally unbalanced

Vivid adj. powerful

Wistful adj. showing sadness or unhappiness.

Dandelion Seraphim

steps by wicked steps

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