The Chrysalids By John Wyndham Our Big Questions

The Chrysalids By John Wyndham

Our Big Questions “How does fantasy and science fiction prepare us to handle the challenges that tomorrow will bring? ”

Chapter 1 A Dream and the Definition

Characters - Initial notes on the Strorm Family David Strorm – The narrator and protagonist. Elias Strorm – David’s grandfather; not a character in the story, but founded Waknuk and was instrumental in developing the village’s philosophy. Joseph Strorm – David’s father and Waknuk community leader; champion of “purity” in all forms of life. Emily Strorm – David’s mother.

Characters - Initial notes on the Strorm Family Petra Strorm – David’s younger sister. Aunt Harriet – Emily Strorm’s sister. Uncle Axel – Emily Storm’s brother-in-law; broadminded and philosophical. Rosalind Morton – David’s half-cousin. Angus Morton – Rosalind’s father, owns the farm next to the Strorms’ and often disagrees with Joseph Strorm.

Plot Remember the PLOT LINE of the novel: 1. Exposition (beginning) – Characters, setting, atmosphere, main problem (inciting force). How many of these can you describe or make guesses about after Chapter 1?

Setting = Place + Time We must infer the setting of the story. What do you know about the setting already? After reading Chapter 1, brainstorm what you know about the setting already.

Pre-reading Discussion Questions 1. Why does it matter which books we read and learn about in school? 2. Are there books we should not study in school? Why or why not? 3. How important is environment to education? 4. What role(s) do environmental elements play in your education? (Think of the physical classroom environment – Things you see, like posters and decorations; temperature; light; heat; smell…)