Podcast
Questions and Answers
What did the Fossil sisters do on wet days?
What did the Fossil sisters do on wet days?
- Visit the dolls’ houses in the Victoria and Albert Museum (correct)
- Save the penny and walk
- Hire a taxi to go to the Brompton Road
- Stay indoors and play with their toys
What did Pauline think about Gum's choice of house location?
What did Pauline think about Gum's choice of house location?
- He should have bought a house near the Victoria and Albert Museum
- He should have bought a house near the Brompton Road
- He must have been a very taxi person (correct)
- He made a wise decision to live at the far end of the longest road in London
What was G.U.M.'s significance in the children's lives?
What was G.U.M.'s significance in the children's lives?
- He was a legendary figure who went on a voyage and never came back (correct)
- He was the owner of the Victoria and Albert Museum
- He collected some of the finest fossils in the world
- He brought the children in his beak like a stork
What did Gum collect that was of interest to some people?
What did Gum collect that was of interest to some people?
Who brought Petrova to the nursery?
Who brought Petrova to the nursery?
What did Gum send along with the third baby, Posy?
What did Gum send along with the third baby, Posy?
Who expressed disapproval upon Posy's arrival?
Who expressed disapproval upon Posy's arrival?
Who was expected to be away for several years?
Who was expected to be away for several years?
What did Nana insist upon regarding the babies after Posy's arrival?
What did Nana insist upon regarding the babies after Posy's arrival?
What did the arrival of the babies bring to the household?
What did the arrival of the babies bring to the household?
What did Sylvia consider doing with Posy after her arrival?
What did Sylvia consider doing with Posy after her arrival?
Who became Nana's favorite among the babies?
Who became Nana's favorite among the babies?
What did the story revolve around?
What did the story revolve around?
What did the text reflect?
What did the text reflect?
Who was responsible for managing the care and upbringing of the babies?
Who was responsible for managing the care and upbringing of the babies?
What did Nana make clear after Posy's arrival?
What did Nana make clear after Posy's arrival?
What are the names of the Fossil sisters?
What are the names of the Fossil sisters?
What color are the school uniforms of Cromwell House, where Pauline and Petrova attend?
What color are the school uniforms of Cromwell House, where Pauline and Petrova attend?
Who is the absent guardian of the Fossil sisters?
Who is the absent guardian of the Fossil sisters?
What is the name that the Fossil sisters decide to call their guardian, Sylvia?
What is the name that the Fossil sisters decide to call their guardian, Sylvia?
What does Sylvia register the Fossil sisters as, as their surname?
What does Sylvia register the Fossil sisters as, as their surname?
What is the initial association with the name 'Fossil' by Sylvia and Nana?
What is the initial association with the name 'Fossil' by Sylvia and Nana?
What physical feature is used to describe Pauline?
What physical feature is used to describe Pauline?
How do Pauline and Petrova view their early education experiences?
How do Pauline and Petrova view their early education experiences?
What is the role of Nana in the Fossil sisters' lives?
What is the role of Nana in the Fossil sisters' lives?
What is the significance of the name 'Fossil' to the Fossil sisters?
What is the significance of the name 'Fossil' to the Fossil sisters?
What dilemma do Pauline and Petrova face regarding the Fossil surname?
What dilemma do Pauline and Petrova face regarding the Fossil surname?
What does the narrative highlight about the Fossil sisters' family dynamics?
What does the narrative highlight about the Fossil sisters' family dynamics?
What is the name of the protagonist in the story?
What is the name of the protagonist in the story?
Who does Gum invite to live in the house and care for his fossil collection?
Who does Gum invite to live in the house and care for his fossil collection?
What ends Gum's fossil-hunting career?
What ends Gum's fossil-hunting career?
What is the name of the baby Gum rescues from a shipwreck?
What is the name of the baby Gum rescues from a shipwreck?
Who initially questions the practicality of caring for the adopted baby, Pauline?
Who initially questions the practicality of caring for the adopted baby, Pauline?
What does the narrative primarily focus on?
What does the narrative primarily focus on?
What does Gum collect?
What does Gum collect?
Who takes over the household and fossil care duties after the niece's passing?
Who takes over the household and fossil care duties after the niece's passing?
What is the name of the nurse who cares for the household?
What is the name of the nurse who cares for the household?
What event sparks a heated exchange between Gum and Nana?
What event sparks a heated exchange between Gum and Nana?
How does Gum plan to travel after his accident?
How does Gum plan to travel after his accident?
What does the story highlight about Gum's household?
What does the story highlight about Gum's household?
What is Nana's suggestion to generate income for the Fossil sisters?
What is Nana's suggestion to generate income for the Fossil sisters?
Who proposes that Sylvia temporarily educates the children until their father returns?
Who proposes that Sylvia temporarily educates the children until their father returns?
What captivates Petrova's attention when she answers the doorbell?
What captivates Petrova's attention when she answers the doorbell?
What does the arrival of the visitors signify for the Fossil sisters?
What does the arrival of the visitors signify for the Fossil sisters?
What does the narrative emphasize about the Fossil sisters' involvement in household activities?
What does the narrative emphasize about the Fossil sisters' involvement in household activities?
What does the text highlight about the bond between the Fossil sisters?
What does the text highlight about the bond between the Fossil sisters?
What does the narrative provide insight into?
What does the narrative provide insight into?
What does the story depict about the Fossil sisters' determination?
What does the story depict about the Fossil sisters' determination?
What are the Fossil sisters facing after their father's disappearance?
What are the Fossil sisters facing after their father's disappearance?
Who expresses concern about the lack of money to support the household and the education of the children?
Who expresses concern about the lack of money to support the household and the education of the children?
What is Sylvia's response to Nana's suggestion of temporarily educating the children?
What is Sylvia's response to Nana's suggestion of temporarily educating the children?
What does Nana propose to reorganize the house for?
What does Nana propose to reorganize the house for?
What did Miss Dane specify for the exercises and activities at the dancing class?
What did Miss Dane specify for the exercises and activities at the dancing class?
What attire did Nana lay out for the Fossil sisters to wear at the dancing class?
What attire did Nana lay out for the Fossil sisters to wear at the dancing class?
What did Nana express concern about having to get made for the Fossil sisters by Monday?
What did Nana express concern about having to get made for the Fossil sisters by Monday?
What did Pauline express frustration about wearing to the dancing class?
What did Pauline express frustration about wearing to the dancing class?
What is Petrova's dream career?
What is Petrova's dream career?
Who is Madame Fidolia?
Who is Madame Fidolia?
What worries Petrova about her future career?
What worries Petrova about her future career?
What is the Academy's struggle according to the text?
What is the Academy's struggle according to the text?
What do the children do while waiting in the Academy's waiting room?
What do the children do while waiting in the Academy's waiting room?
What does Posy aspire to be like?
What does Posy aspire to be like?
What does the story primarily reflect?
What does the story primarily reflect?
What is Petrova's initial reaction to the Academy?
What is Petrova's initial reaction to the Academy?
Who interrupts the children's argument at the Academy?
Who interrupts the children's argument at the Academy?
What is Madame Fidolia's background before opening the Academy?
What is Madame Fidolia's background before opening the Academy?
What is the name of Petrova's sister who also arrives at the Academy?
What is the name of Petrova's sister who also arrives at the Academy?
What does Petrova worry about regarding her dance training?
What does Petrova worry about regarding her dance training?
What is the mid-morning meal called that the Fossil sisters have?
What is the mid-morning meal called that the Fossil sisters have?
What color are the rompers that the Fossil sisters wear at the Academy?
What color are the rompers that the Fossil sisters wear at the Academy?
What do the Fossil sisters do for half an hour after lunch?
What do the Fossil sisters do for half an hour after lunch?
What time do the Fossil sisters get home after dancing class at the Academy?
What time do the Fossil sisters get home after dancing class at the Academy?
What do the Fossil sisters wear for the second half-hour at the Academy?
What do the Fossil sisters wear for the second half-hour at the Academy?
Who reads to the other two sisters before bedtime?
Who reads to the other two sisters before bedtime?
What do the Fossil sisters eventually stop eating during their ten-minute morning break?
What do the Fossil sisters eventually stop eating during their ten-minute morning break?
What is the name of the dance class location the Fossil sisters go to after tea?
What is the name of the dance class location the Fossil sisters go to after tea?
Who accompanies the Fossil sisters for their walks at noon and in the afternoons?
Who accompanies the Fossil sisters for their walks at noon and in the afternoons?
What is the name of the person who conducts lessons for Pauline and Petrova?
What is the name of the person who conducts lessons for Pauline and Petrova?
What type of dancing do the Fossil sisters do twice a week?
What type of dancing do the Fossil sisters do twice a week?
What do the Fossil sisters have for a mid-morning meal, along with chocolate and ice-cream soda?
What do the Fossil sisters have for a mid-morning meal, along with chocolate and ice-cream soda?
What is the name of the stage school run by Madame Fidolia?
What is the name of the stage school run by Madame Fidolia?
How does Madame Fidolia expect to be addressed by her pupils?
How does Madame Fidolia expect to be addressed by her pupils?
Who assists Madame Fidolia in assessing the children for placement in different classes?
Who assists Madame Fidolia in assessing the children for placement in different classes?
What dance do the children perform as part of their assessment in the junior dancing class?
What dance do the children perform as part of their assessment in the junior dancing class?
Which characters are introduced as students at Madame Fidolia's school?
Which characters are introduced as students at Madame Fidolia's school?
What is emphasized through the children's varying attitudes and abilities in the dance class?
What is emphasized through the children's varying attitudes and abilities in the dance class?
What does Madame Fidolia insist on from her pupils as a form of greeting?
What does Madame Fidolia insist on from her pupils as a form of greeting?
Who is responsible for instructing the children in various types of dancing and acting?
Who is responsible for instructing the children in various types of dancing and acting?
What does the narrative provide insights into?
What does the narrative provide insights into?
What is illustrated through Madame Fidolia's interactions with the children and staff?
What is illustrated through Madame Fidolia's interactions with the children and staff?
What are the children assessed for by Madame Fidolia and Theo?
What are the children assessed for by Madame Fidolia and Theo?
What do the children discuss regarding their future at Madame Fidolia's stage school?
What do the children discuss regarding their future at Madame Fidolia's stage school?
What did Posy display an extraordinary talent for?
What did Posy display an extraordinary talent for?
Which classes did Pauline excel in at the Academy?
Which classes did Pauline excel in at the Academy?
What did the notice board at the Academy contain?
What did the notice board at the Academy contain?
What did Sylvia inform about Pauline's classes at the Academy?
What did Sylvia inform about Pauline's classes at the Academy?
What did the children feel unimportant about before Christmas?
What did the children feel unimportant about before Christmas?
What did Petrova find exhausting about Saturday mornings at the Academy?
What did Petrova find exhausting about Saturday mornings at the Academy?
What was Madame particularly admiring about Posy?
What was Madame particularly admiring about Posy?
What did the sisters express envy about regarding the older children?
What did the sisters express envy about regarding the older children?
What did the school break up for before Christmas?
What did the school break up for before Christmas?
What did the children do on wet days?
What did the children do on wet days?
What did Posy's talent for walking on her toes hint at?
What did Posy's talent for walking on her toes hint at?
What did Pauline express envy about regarding the older children?
What did Pauline express envy about regarding the older children?
What did Nana put on the Fossil sisters' plates while Pauline was crying?
What did Nana put on the Fossil sisters' plates while Pauline was crying?
Who burst into tears unexpectedly during the tea?
Who burst into tears unexpectedly during the tea?
What did Sylvia gift the Fossil sisters as a surprise after tea?
What did Sylvia gift the Fossil sisters as a surprise after tea?
Who comforted Pauline when she burst into tears?
Who comforted Pauline when she burst into tears?
What does Madame emphasize for actors?
What does Madame emphasize for actors?
Who defies Madame's class assignment?
Who defies Madame's class assignment?
Where are the children relocated to for recovery?
Where are the children relocated to for recovery?
What does Pauline prepare to obtain nearing her twelfth birthday?
What does Pauline prepare to obtain nearing her twelfth birthday?
What takes precedence over other expenses for the family?
What takes precedence over other expenses for the family?
What does Miss Jay arrange for Pauline?
What does Miss Jay arrange for Pauline?
What does Petrova find joy in?
What does Petrova find joy in?
What does the story primarily portray about the children?
What does the story primarily portray about the children?
What does Madame allow Posy to do?
What does Madame allow Posy to do?
What raises hopes amid financial struggles?
What raises hopes amid financial struggles?
What does the change of environment improve for the children?
What does the change of environment improve for the children?
What does Madame encourage Posy to continue doing?
What does Madame encourage Posy to continue doing?
What do the Fossil sisters consider selling to buy a dress for Pauline?
What do the Fossil sisters consider selling to buy a dress for Pauline?
What does Pauline plan to do to support her sisters financially?
What does Pauline plan to do to support her sisters financially?
Who disrupts the original plan to buy the dress for Pauline?
Who disrupts the original plan to buy the dress for Pauline?
What are the Fossil sisters worried about in relation to the audition?
What are the Fossil sisters worried about in relation to the audition?
What does Nana try to do despite the girls' efforts to keep their struggles hidden?
What does Nana try to do despite the girls' efforts to keep their struggles hidden?
What does Mr. Simpson notice but is not told about?
What does Mr. Simpson notice but is not told about?
What does Pauline plan to do with the money earned from her audition?
What does Pauline plan to do with the money earned from her audition?
What is the girls' concern about the long-term use of the dress they plan to purchase?
What is the girls' concern about the long-term use of the dress they plan to purchase?
Who is determined to help the girls despite their financial struggles?
Who is determined to help the girls despite their financial struggles?
What is Mr. Simpson's role in the disruption of the original plan to buy the dress?
What is Mr. Simpson's role in the disruption of the original plan to buy the dress?
What do the Fossil sisters decide to sell to buy a dress for Pauline?
What do the Fossil sisters decide to sell to buy a dress for Pauline?
Who is worried about the impression they will make at the audition without proper clothes?
Who is worried about the impression they will make at the audition without proper clothes?
What does Winifred hope to achieve through the audition?
What does Winifred hope to achieve through the audition?
What does Mr. Simpson propose to do to help the children with their financial situation?
What does Mr. Simpson propose to do to help the children with their financial situation?
What does Pauline purchase for an audition?
What does Pauline purchase for an audition?
Why is Winifred envious of Pauline?
Why is Winifred envious of Pauline?
Why is Winifred unable to attend the audition?
Why is Winifred unable to attend the audition?
What does the text primarily highlight about the children?
What does the text primarily highlight about the children?
What does Winifred discuss regarding the potential earnings from the audition?
What does Winifred discuss regarding the potential earnings from the audition?
What does Winifred's father need extra care for?
What does Winifred's father need extra care for?
Why is Winifred's mother unable to attend the audition?
Why is Winifred's mother unable to attend the audition?
What does Winifred hope to achieve through the potential earnings from the audition?
What does Winifred hope to achieve through the potential earnings from the audition?
What does Mr. Simpson propose as a plan to help the children with their financial struggles?
What does Mr. Simpson propose as a plan to help the children with their financial struggles?
What does the text highlight about Winifred's family?
What does the text highlight about Winifred's family?
What is the main focus of the text?
What is the main focus of the text?
What did Madame Moulin assign Pauline to translate for a play?
What did Madame Moulin assign Pauline to translate for a play?
What activity did the children enjoy at Pevensey Bay?
What activity did the children enjoy at Pevensey Bay?
Who directed Pauline to attend Madame Moulin's class?
Who directed Pauline to attend Madame Moulin's class?
What role did Madame Moulin encourage Pauline to consider playing when she was older?
What role did Madame Moulin encourage Pauline to consider playing when she was older?
What did the children do during their walks at Pevensey Bay?
What did the children do during their walks at Pevensey Bay?
What did Pauline feel during the autumn term at the Academy?
What did Pauline feel during the autumn term at the Academy?
What did Madame Moulin share with Pauline?
What did Madame Moulin share with Pauline?
What did Madame Moulin encourage Pauline to read?
What did Madame Moulin encourage Pauline to read?
What illustrates the children's summer at Pevensey Bay and Pauline's struggles at the Academy?
What illustrates the children's summer at Pevensey Bay and Pauline's struggles at the Academy?
What did Madame Moulin attempt to engage Pauline in?
What did Madame Moulin attempt to engage Pauline in?
What was the Cromwell Road like to the children upon their return?
What was the Cromwell Road like to the children upon their return?
What important lesson does Doctor Jakes believe Pauline will soon learn?
What important lesson does Doctor Jakes believe Pauline will soon learn?
What was the rule of the theater regarding stage dresses?
What was the rule of the theater regarding stage dresses?
What did Nana and Winifred have to do while Pauline grumbled about getting help?
What did Nana and Winifred have to do while Pauline grumbled about getting help?
What did Doctor Jakes comfort Sylvia with regarding Pauline's behavior?
What did Doctor Jakes comfort Sylvia with regarding Pauline's behavior?
Who explains the concept of being replaceable in a play to Pauline?
Who explains the concept of being replaceable in a play to Pauline?
What does Pauline receive from a famous film star?
What does Pauline receive from a famous film star?
What helps the family financially?
What helps the family financially?
Who listens to Pauline's account of what happened and expresses sympathy?
Who listens to Pauline's account of what happened and expresses sympathy?
Where is Pauline called to after attending the next day's matinée?
Where is Pauline called to after attending the next day's matinée?
What do Petrova and Posy share their perspectives on?
What do Petrova and Posy share their perspectives on?
What does Pauline reflect on?
What does Pauline reflect on?
What does Mr. French invite children to do?
What does Mr. French invite children to do?
What does Pauline do with the money earned from broadcasting performances?
What does Pauline do with the money earned from broadcasting performances?
Where is the doll placed initially?
Where is the doll placed initially?
What does Pauline receive after getting a role in a grown-up play?
What does Pauline receive after getting a role in a grown-up play?
What does Mr. French explain to Pauline?
What does Mr. French explain to Pauline?
What was the consequence of Pauline's rebellion at the theater?
What was the consequence of Pauline's rebellion at the theater?
Who did Nana inform about the incident at the theater?
Who did Nana inform about the incident at the theater?
How did the children behave during tea with Sylvia and Winifred after the incident?
How did the children behave during tea with Sylvia and Winifred after the incident?
What did Nana instruct the children to do in front of Miss Brown?
What did Nana instruct the children to do in front of Miss Brown?
How did Pauline initially feel after the incident at the theater?
How did Pauline initially feel after the incident at the theater?
What did the children do to maintain a cheerful atmosphere and avoid revealing the tension caused by Pauline's rebellion?
What did the children do to maintain a cheerful atmosphere and avoid revealing the tension caused by Pauline's rebellion?
Who intervened after the stage manager's request for Pauline to wear her wrap was dismissed?
Who intervened after the stage manager's request for Pauline to wear her wrap was dismissed?
What did the stage manager emphasize to Pauline?
What did the stage manager emphasize to Pauline?
How did Pauline react when asked to retrieve her wrap from the stage?
How did Pauline react when asked to retrieve her wrap from the stage?
What was Nana's reaction to the incident in the bathroom?
What was Nana's reaction to the incident in the bathroom?
How did Pauline's rebellion impact the atmosphere among the children?
How did Pauline's rebellion impact the atmosphere among the children?
What did Pauline initially remember to do before her rebellion at the theater?
What did Pauline initially remember to do before her rebellion at the theater?
What did Nana provide for the Academy and the Fossil sisters?
What did Nana provide for the Academy and the Fossil sisters?
What was Petrova's daily routine at the Academy?
What was Petrova's daily routine at the Academy?
What distinguished Posy's performance at the Academy?
What distinguished Posy's performance at the Academy?
What does Posy do with her shoes?
What does Posy do with her shoes?
What causes financial difficulties for the family?
What causes financial difficulties for the family?
What did Posy refuse to acknowledge regarding her ballet shoes?
What did Posy refuse to acknowledge regarding her ballet shoes?
What leads to a shortage of opportunities for child performers?
What leads to a shortage of opportunities for child performers?
What was the Academy's expectation of Posy?
What was the Academy's expectation of Posy?
What does Posy do during Petrova's birthday picnic?
What does Posy do during Petrova's birthday picnic?
What did Sylvia and the doctors focus on in relation to the Fossil sisters?
What did Sylvia and the doctors focus on in relation to the Fossil sisters?
What do the Fossil sisters add to their vow?
What do the Fossil sisters add to their vow?
What did Pauline do with her earnings from the play?
What did Pauline do with her earnings from the play?
What leads to a humorous moment during the addition of 'amen' to their vow?
What leads to a humorous moment during the addition of 'amen' to their vow?
What was the Academy's expectation of Posy's time allocation?
What was the Academy's expectation of Posy's time allocation?
What does Sylvia worry about?
What does Sylvia worry about?
What was Petrova's attitude towards dancing?
What was Petrova's attitude towards dancing?
What does Pauline struggle with after securing a role in 'Alice in Wonderland'?
What does Pauline struggle with after securing a role in 'Alice in Wonderland'?
What did Nana do when she stopped attending classes?
What did Nana do when she stopped attending classes?
What does Mr. Simpson's picnic invitation lead to?
What does Mr. Simpson's picnic invitation lead to?
What did Pauline feel during the autumn term at the Academy?
What did Pauline feel during the autumn term at the Academy?
What does the family vow to do for Garnie?
What does the family vow to do for Garnie?
What did the doctors and Sylvia neglect to inquire about?
What did the doctors and Sylvia neglect to inquire about?
What does Posy do at Madame’s school despite not showcasing her dancing skills?
What does Posy do at Madame’s school despite not showcasing her dancing skills?
What does the family face during the difficult summer?
What does the family face during the difficult summer?
What did Sylvia insist on regarding the family's earnings?
What did Sylvia insist on regarding the family's earnings?
What was the family's plan for the extra pound discussed at breakfast?
What was the family's plan for the extra pound discussed at breakfast?
What did Pauline argue about the earnings she previously made?
What did Pauline argue about the earnings she previously made?
What did Nana warn the children about regarding their time at the theater?
What did Nana warn the children about regarding their time at the theater?
What is Petrova anxious about regarding her potential role in the theater?
What is Petrova anxious about regarding her potential role in the theater?
Why does Petrova find comfort in the role she may have to play?
Why does Petrova find comfort in the role she may have to play?
Why is Petrova hesitant to express her reluctance to be engaged for the part?
Why is Petrova hesitant to express her reluctance to be engaged for the part?
What does Sylvia question Petrova about when she finds her out of bed?
What does Sylvia question Petrova about when she finds her out of bed?
What do Petrova and Pauline worry about in the theater?
What do Petrova and Pauline worry about in the theater?
What does Petrova sneak to Nana's room to do?
What does Petrova sneak to Nana's room to do?
What does Petrova realize about the part she may have asked for?
What does Petrova realize about the part she may have asked for?
What does Petrova contemplate the difficulty of imitating?
What does Petrova contemplate the difficulty of imitating?
What does Nana do to cover for Petrova and Pauline in the theater?
What does Nana do to cover for Petrova and Pauline in the theater?
Why did the girls decide not to tell Sylvia about the parts until they had secured them?
Why did the girls decide not to tell Sylvia about the parts until they had secured them?
What does Petrova find Sylvia doing in the drawing-room late at night?
What does Petrova find Sylvia doing in the drawing-room late at night?
What leads to a humorous moment during Petrova's contemplation of the role?
What leads to a humorous moment during Petrova's contemplation of the role?
What type of speech does Donald Houghton ask Pauline and Petrova to recite?
What type of speech does Donald Houghton ask Pauline and Petrova to recite?
What does the encounter with Donald Houghton demonstrate?
What does the encounter with Donald Houghton demonstrate?
What does the text primarily highlight about the sisters' pursuit of acting ambitions?
What does the text primarily highlight about the sisters' pursuit of acting ambitions?
What emotion do Pauline and Petrova experience as they await a response to their letter?
What emotion do Pauline and Petrova experience as they await a response to their letter?
What is the main focus of the story?
What is the main focus of the story?
What does the story primarily portray about young performers in the theater world?
What does the story primarily portray about young performers in the theater world?
What does Pauline impress Donald Houghton with?
What does Pauline impress Donald Houghton with?
What is highlighted by the encounter with Donald Houghton?
What is highlighted by the encounter with Donald Houghton?
What does the text capture about the sisters' emotions as they await a response to their letter?
What does the text capture about the sisters' emotions as they await a response to their letter?
What does the story primarily emphasize about pursuing one's passions?
What does the story primarily emphasize about pursuing one's passions?
What does the encounter with Donald Houghton demonstrate about the theater world?
What does the encounter with Donald Houghton demonstrate about the theater world?
What does the text primarily highlight about the challenges faced by young performers in the theater world?
What does the text primarily highlight about the challenges faced by young performers in the theater world?
What is the primary reason for Sylvia's intention to sell the house?
What is the primary reason for Sylvia's intention to sell the house?
Why does the producer express doubt about Petrova's suitability for a role?
Why does the producer express doubt about Petrova's suitability for a role?
What reflects the broader theme of financial instability and its impact on the characters?
What reflects the broader theme of financial instability and its impact on the characters?
What creates emotional turmoil for Petrova?
What creates emotional turmoil for Petrova?
What does Sylvia have to do as everything inside the house belongs to Gum?
What does Sylvia have to do as everything inside the house belongs to Gum?
Why does Petrova feel conflicted about acting?
Why does Petrova feel conflicted about acting?
What does the producer emphasize as a reason for not selecting Petrova?
What does the producer emphasize as a reason for not selecting Petrova?
What does Sylvia consider doing with the house due to financial difficulties?
What does Sylvia consider doing with the house due to financial difficulties?
Why does Sylvia offer Petrova the option to pursue a different career when she's older?
Why does Sylvia offer Petrova the option to pursue a different career when she's older?
What does Petrova wish regarding her acting career?
What does Petrova wish regarding her acting career?
What does Oberon arrange an audition for Pauline and Petrova for?
What does Oberon arrange an audition for Pauline and Petrova for?
Why does Sylvia have to make an inventory of the house?
Why does Sylvia have to make an inventory of the house?
What was Sylvia's allocation of earnings for the family?
What was Sylvia's allocation of earnings for the family?
Who did Sylvia seek advice from about the money argument?
Who did Sylvia seek advice from about the money argument?
Who agreed with Pauline but for different reasons?
Who agreed with Pauline but for different reasons?
What did Pauline decide to do with her earnings?
What did Pauline decide to do with her earnings?
What did the family consider the sacredness of, and the importance of?
What did the family consider the sacredness of, and the importance of?
What did Pauline hear was to go up the following Friday, causing dismay?
What did Pauline hear was to go up the following Friday, causing dismay?
Who was given the freedom to keep her earnings for herself?
Who was given the freedom to keep her earnings for herself?
What did the family's financial struggles and decision-making process reflect?
What did the family's financial struggles and decision-making process reflect?
What did Pauline say she might do if needed?
What did Pauline say she might do if needed?
What did Pauline take more pleasure in after her decision?
What did Pauline take more pleasure in after her decision?
Who did Sylvia seek advice from about the money argument?
Who did Sylvia seek advice from about the money argument?
What did Pauline decide to do with her earnings?
What did Pauline decide to do with her earnings?
What did the Fossil sisters vow to do on Petrova's birthday?
What did the Fossil sisters vow to do on Petrova's birthday?
What was different about Petrova's birthday celebration this year?
What was different about Petrova's birthday celebration this year?
Why did the girls feel ashamed during their argument about helping in the house?
Why did the girls feel ashamed during their argument about helping in the house?
What did the Fossil sisters feel was an injustice during their holidays?
What did the Fossil sisters feel was an injustice during their holidays?
What did the sisters use to book a campsite for their holiday?
What did the sisters use to book a campsite for their holiday?
What relieved the sisters' financial worries during their holiday?
What relieved the sisters' financial worries during their holiday?
What was the amount of Pauline's engagement at the studio?
What was the amount of Pauline's engagement at the studio?
What did the engagement money help with?
What did the engagement money help with?
Where did the sisters arrange to have their meals during the holiday?
Where did the sisters arrange to have their meals during the holiday?
What did the sisters do on rainy days during their holiday?
What did the sisters do on rainy days during their holiday?
How did the sisters wake up during their holiday?
How did the sisters wake up during their holiday?
What did Nana send a telegram about during the holiday?
What did Nana send a telegram about during the holiday?
What did Pauline suggest using to go camping with her sisters and Nana?
What did Pauline suggest using to go camping with her sisters and Nana?
What did the sisters enjoy taking turns to do during their holiday?
What did the sisters enjoy taking turns to do during their holiday?
What did the sisters play with the doctors during their holiday?
What did the sisters play with the doctors during their holiday?
What did Pauline withdraw to buy camping gear for the holiday?
What did Pauline withdraw to buy camping gear for the holiday?
What did Pauline struggle with in the film industry?
What did Pauline struggle with in the film industry?
What did Pauline spend her free time studying?
What did Pauline spend her free time studying?
What role did Pauline play in the pantomime?
What role did Pauline play in the pantomime?
Who was most affected by the sale of the house?
Who was most affected by the sale of the house?
Who accompanied Pauline to her rehearsals, making her feel grown up?
Who accompanied Pauline to her rehearsals, making her feel grown up?
What did the director praise Pauline for during the film shooting?
What did the director praise Pauline for during the film shooting?
What made Pauline's work at the studio less tedious?
What made Pauline's work at the studio less tedious?
What was Petrova's role in the theater?
What was Petrova's role in the theater?
Who disliked being a part of the dance performance?
Who disliked being a part of the dance performance?
What did Pauline find exciting and beautifully made?
What did Pauline find exciting and beautifully made?
What did Pauline find tedious in the film industry?
What did Pauline find tedious in the film industry?
What did Pauline receive praise for from the director?
What did Pauline receive praise for from the director?
What motivates Posy to focus on her ballet class?
What motivates Posy to focus on her ballet class?
Who does Posy express her desire to see performing in Petroushka?
Who does Posy express her desire to see performing in Petroushka?
Who does Theo seek help from to manage Posy's disruptive behavior in the senior ballet class?
Who does Theo seek help from to manage Posy's disruptive behavior in the senior ballet class?
What initially causes disruption in the senior ballet class?
What initially causes disruption in the senior ballet class?
What prompts Pauline to offer to buy ballet tickets for Posy?
What prompts Pauline to offer to buy ballet tickets for Posy?
Who shares a story with Posy about the importance of continuous learning?
Who shares a story with Posy about the importance of continuous learning?
What does Posy reluctantly attend before her determination to focus on ballet class increases?
What does Posy reluctantly attend before her determination to focus on ballet class increases?
Who becomes challenged in managing Posy's disruptive behavior in the senior ballet class?
Who becomes challenged in managing Posy's disruptive behavior in the senior ballet class?
What does Posy initially lack during her reluctant attendance of the senior ballet class?
What does Posy initially lack during her reluctant attendance of the senior ballet class?
What does Posy express her discontent about to Madame Moulin?
What does Posy express her discontent about to Madame Moulin?
What does Sylvia plan for Posy's educational activities?
What does Sylvia plan for Posy's educational activities?
What initially prompts Posy's determination to attend the ballet?
What initially prompts Posy's determination to attend the ballet?
What does Petrova prefer studying over games and reading sessions?
What does Petrova prefer studying over games and reading sessions?
What affects the pantomimes' performances?
What affects the pantomimes' performances?
What leads to Posy's distress at the Academy?
What leads to Posy's distress at the Academy?
What decision does the Academy make regarding Posy's training?
What decision does the Academy make regarding Posy's training?
What are Pauline's school certificate exams and Petrova's language studies an example of?
What are Pauline's school certificate exams and Petrova's language studies an example of?
What does the narrative primarily emphasize about the Fossil sisters' training at the Academy?
What does the narrative primarily emphasize about the Fossil sisters' training at the Academy?
What causes Petrova's pantomime to end early?
What causes Petrova's pantomime to end early?
What does the text highlight about Posy's struggle regarding education arrangements at home?
What does the text highlight about Posy's struggle regarding education arrangements at home?
What does the family primarily emphasize during challenging times?
What does the family primarily emphasize during challenging times?
What does the narrative primarily portray about the Fossil sisters' involvement in household activities?
What does the narrative primarily portray about the Fossil sisters' involvement in household activities?
What is emphasized through the children's varying attitudes and abilities in the dance class?
What is emphasized through the children's varying attitudes and abilities in the dance class?
What creates emotional turmoil for Petrova?
What creates emotional turmoil for Petrova?
What was the final terror that prevented Harriet from getting on the ice?
What was the final terror that prevented Harriet from getting on the ice?
What did Olivia advise Harriet to do to overcome her fear of getting on the ice?
What did Olivia advise Harriet to do to overcome her fear of getting on the ice?
What did Olivia warn Harriet about if she were to shut her eyes?
What did Olivia warn Harriet about if she were to shut her eyes?
What action did Harriet attempt multiple times before Olivia's advice?
What action did Harriet attempt multiple times before Olivia's advice?
Who is coaching Lalla in skating?
Who is coaching Lalla in skating?
What motivates Claudia to make Lalla the greatest skater?
What motivates Claudia to make Lalla the greatest skater?
How is Lalla's financial stability ensured?
How is Lalla's financial stability ensured?
What impression does Olivia have of Lalla's skating skills and teaching abilities?
What impression does Olivia have of Lalla's skating skills and teaching abilities?
What is Nana's profession?
What is Nana's profession?
What is Harriet hesitant to do?
What is Harriet hesitant to do?
Who is mentioned as a kind and supportive figure in Lalla's life?
Who is mentioned as a kind and supportive figure in Lalla's life?
What does the story primarily showcase?
What does the story primarily showcase?
What does the conversation highlight?
What does the conversation highlight?
Who is determined to make Lalla the greatest skater?
Who is determined to make Lalla the greatest skater?
What is Lalla's achievement in skating so far?
What is Lalla's achievement in skating so far?
What is the cause of Harriet's hesitation to skate?
What is the cause of Harriet's hesitation to skate?
What does Nana advise Harriet to do after noticing her tired legs?
What does Nana advise Harriet to do after noticing her tired legs?
What does Lalla reveal about her evenings?
What does Lalla reveal about her evenings?
What does Olivia think about Lalla's evenings?
What does Olivia think about Lalla's evenings?
What does Nana suggest regarding Harriet's skating?
What does Nana suggest regarding Harriet's skating?
What does Harriet respect Lalla for?
What does Harriet respect Lalla for?
What does Lalla plead to do?
What does Lalla plead to do?
What does Olivia invite Lalla to do?
What does Olivia invite Lalla to do?
What does Lalla express about her family situation?
What does Lalla express about her family situation?
What does Nana decide to do when she notices Harriet's tired legs?
What does Nana decide to do when she notices Harriet's tired legs?
What does Olivia think about stopping early due to tired legs?
What does Olivia think about stopping early due to tired legs?
What does Nana advise Harriet to do after resting?
What does Nana advise Harriet to do after resting?
What does Olivia admire about Harriet?
What does Olivia admire about Harriet?
What was Noel Streatfeild's profession before turning to writing?
What was Noel Streatfeild's profession before turning to writing?
What was the main reason Olivia hesitated to allow Harriet to come back for tea?
What was the main reason Olivia hesitated to allow Harriet to come back for tea?
What did Olivia think about Mrs. King's lifestyle compared to her own?
What did Olivia think about Mrs. King's lifestyle compared to her own?
What was Olivia's realization about the grandest dinner in the world versus their own situation?
What was Olivia's realization about the grandest dinner in the world versus their own situation?
What was Noel Streatfeild's first book for children?
What was Noel Streatfeild's first book for children?
What inspired many of Noel Streatfeild's books?
What inspired many of Noel Streatfeild's books?
What was the reason for Olivia's hesitation to invite the Kings to their house?
What was the reason for Olivia's hesitation to invite the Kings to their house?
What did Olivia notice about Harriet during their walk home?
What did Olivia notice about Harriet during their walk home?
What was Olivia's response to Harriet's observation about Lalla's loneliness?
What was Olivia's response to Harriet's observation about Lalla's loneliness?
What did Harriet hope for regarding her friendship with Lalla?
What did Harriet hope for regarding her friendship with Lalla?
What did Olivia think about Mrs. King's potential reaction to Harriet's friendship with Lalla?
What did Olivia think about Mrs. King's potential reaction to Harriet's friendship with Lalla?
What was Olivia's response to Harriet's observation about Lalla's loneliness?
What was Olivia's response to Harriet's observation about Lalla's loneliness?
Study Notes
The Fossil Sisters and their Financial Struggles
- The Fossil sisters, Sylvia, Pauline, and Petrova, are facing financial difficulties after their father's disappearance six years ago.
- Sylvia is concerned about the lack of money to support the household and the education of the children.
- Nana, their former nurse, suggests taking in boarders to generate income and reorganizing the house to accommodate them.
- Nana also proposes that Sylvia temporarily educates the children until their father returns, despite Sylvia's doubts about her ability to teach.
- The sisters and Nana work together to prepare the house for boarders, involving the children in the process.
- When the doorbell rings, Petrova, the youngest sister, is asked to answer it and encounters a gentleman and a lady who own a Citröen car, which captivates her attention.
- The arrival of the visitors may bring new opportunities or challenges for the Fossil sisters.
- The text portrays the Fossil sisters' resilience and adaptability as they navigate their financial struggles.
- The story highlights the bond between the sisters and the support they receive from Nana.
- The narrative also emphasizes the children's involvement in household activities and decision-making.
- The text provides insight into the challenges faced by a family coping with financial constraints and the strategies they employ to address them.
- The story depicts the Fossil sisters' determination to overcome adversity and find creative solutions to their predicament.
The Academy and Classes
- Saturday mornings at the Academy consisted of special exercise classes, ordinary dancing classes, singing, and acting classes, requiring students to wear Academy overalls and white sandals.
- Petrova found the constant changing of outfits exhausting and expressed her dislike for Saturdays to Nana.
- Madame took a keen interest in Posy, particularly admiring her feet and making her perform alone in class, which caused jealousy from her sisters.
- Pauline excelled in acting classes, performing whole fairy stories without words, while singing classes did not showcase any of the sisters' exceptional talents.
- The school broke up for a month before Christmas, with senior girls working in pantomimes and the children feeling unimportant due to not being old enough for licenses.
- The notice board was filled with rehearsal calls for various ballets and children stars, making the sisters gaze in awe at the names and peep through the glass at the rehearsals.
- Pauline expressed envy at the older children earning money through performances and expressed her desire to act as she gets older.
- Posy displayed an extraordinary talent for walking on her toes, which impressed her sisters, hinting at her potential for dancing.
- Sylvia informed that Pauline would move into a more advanced class for everything and attend an extra class for acting in French on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Children's Struggle with Finances and Aspirations
- The children are considering selling their necklaces for money
- Mr. Simpson proposes a plan to advance them money and buy back the necklaces
- Pauline buys a velvet dress for an audition
- Winifred, another child, is envious of Pauline's dress
- Winifred talks about the potential earnings from an audition
- Winifred shares her family's financial struggles
- Winifred's father is ill and needs extra care
- Winifred's mother is unable to attend the audition due to family responsibilities
- The children discuss the potential earnings from the audition
- Winifred and Pauline talk about the financial needs of their families
- Winifred hopes to earn money for her family through the audition
- The children's financial struggles and aspirations are highlighted
The Children's Summer at Pevensey Bay
- The children worked hard and rented a tiny cottage at Pevensey Bay in Sussex for August.
- They enjoyed their time at Pevensey, spending their days on the beach and doing exercises in the morning.
- They had walks to the old castle and once went to Eastbourne for tea on Beachy Head.
- The Cromwell Road seemed long and dull when they got back, as term at the Academy began the next day.
- Pauline felt out of place during the autumn term and sulked as she was considered too young for certain activities.
- Miss Jay directed Pauline to attend Madame Moulin's class due to her disinterest in the Christmas plays.
- Madame Moulin assigned Pauline to translate Hans Andersen's "The Little Match Girl" for a play, causing Pauline to cry.
- Madame Moulin shared her own experience of feeling out of place and being moved by an elderly actress's performance.
- Madame Moulin encouraged Pauline to read the story and consider playing the role of "L'Aiglon" when she was older.
- The story illustrates the children's summer at Pevensey Bay and Pauline's struggles at the Academy.
- It highlights Pauline's feelings of being left out and Madame Moulin's attempt to engage her in a challenging task.
- The text captures the children's experiences during the summer and their return to the Academy, focusing on Pauline's emotional journey and Madame Moulin's efforts to inspire her.
The Fossil Sisters' Struggles and Vows
- Posy treasures her shoes, displaying them in a case on the wall
- Posy is a popular student at Madame’s school, despite not showcasing her dancing skills
- Pauline secures a role in "Alice in Wonderland," but struggles to find more work after the show ends
- The family faces financial difficulties, with little money left from Gum and uncertainty about Pauline and Petrova's earning potential
- Miss Jay promises to help Pauline find work, but there is a shortage of opportunities for child performers
- The family faces a difficult summer, with growing children and financial strain
- Sylvia worries about the family's financial situation and the children's education
- Petrova's birthday brings a picnic invitation from Mr. Simpson, leading to a joyful day out
- Posy entertains the group with comical dances, bringing laughter to the gathering
- The Fossil sisters add a vow to their list, pledging to earn money to support Garnie
- Petrova questions the addition of "amen" to their vow, leading to a humorous moment
- The Fossil sisters reaffirm their vow to help Garnie, showcasing their determination to overcome their financial struggles
Petrova's Dilemma and Sylvia's Financial Struggle
- Petrova considers leaving her acting role as the Duke of York and joining a dancing troupe instead
- Sylvia, struggling financially, reveals her intention to sell the house due to depleted funds from Gum's inheritance
- Sylvia has to make an inventory of the house as everything inside it belongs to Gum
- The decision to sell the house is due to the need for funds until Gum can be traced
- Despite the financial hardship, Sylvia cares about the girls' happiness and offers Petrova the option to pursue a different career when she's older
- Petrova feels conflicted about acting; she loves it but wishes she didn't have to do it for money
- Petrova becomes upset over the thought of the house being sold and the boarders leaving
- Oberon arranges an audition for Pauline and Petrova, but the producer only selects Pauline, citing Petrova's previous rejection
- The producer expresses doubt about Petrova's suitability for the role due to her previous rejection
- The financial struggles faced by Sylvia and the impending sale of the house create emotional turmoil for Petrova
- Sylvia's financial difficulties drive the decision to sell the house, impacting the future of the characters
- Petrova's conflict over her acting career and the potential sale of the house reflects the broader theme of financial instability and its impact on the characters
Family Financial Struggles and Decision Making
- Pauline is upset about having to put money into the savings account for the family at the post office
- Sylvia allocates the earnings: 10 shillings to savings, 2 shillings to the Academy, 5 shillings for clothes, and 2 shillings pocket money for each girl
- Pauline doesn't want to put more money into the post office and argues that she's not a child and can do what she likes with her money
- The family discusses Pauline's plan to keep her earnings for themselves and not put it in the post office
- Pauline decides not to put any more money in the post office until their guardian comes home and says she might take out what she's saved if needed
- The family considers the sacredness of the savings books and the importance of saving
- Sylvia seeks advice from Nana and the doctors about the money argument
- Theo, Doctor Jakes, Doctor Smith, and Nana agree with Pauline but for different reasons
- Pauline is given the freedom to keep her earnings for herself
- Pauline takes more pleasure in her salary now that most of it does not go into the post office
- Pauline hears that a notice is to go up the following Friday, causing dismay
- The family's financial struggles and decision-making process reflect their values and individual aspirations
Theatrical Training and Family Dynamics
- Mrs. Brick is strict and expects discipline from her students
- The girls have a routine of walking, practicing, and playing games during breaks
- Petrova prefers studying mechanical handbooks over games and reading sessions
- Petrova's close bond with Mr. Simpson, who understands her well
- The pantomimes' performances are affected by King George's death
- Petrova's pantomime ends early, and she feels relieved despite the financial impact
- Posy's distress over Madame's illness and her future at the Academy
- The Academy's decision to have Posy attend regular dancing classes
- Posy's struggle with finding suitable education arrangements at home
- Pauline's school certificate exams and Petrova's language studies
- The family's efforts to support each other during challenging times
- Madame's illness and the impact on the girls' training and education
Lalla's Ice Skating Day
- Harriet feels it's unfair to judge Lalla, whom she's never met, for enjoying skating despite missing school for it.
- Nana decides to signal the children to come off the ice, noticing Harriet's tired legs and suggesting she rest.
- Harriet is shocked at the idea of stopping early due to the cost of hired skates, but Olivia thinks it's better than tiring her legs out.
- Nana advises Harriet to rest and have a sweet, then skate for five more minutes, which she deems enough for the first day.
- Lalla pleads to stay and talk to Harriet, but Nana reminds her of her skating practice.
- Lalla is envious of Harriet having three brothers and expresses her loneliness as an only child.
- Olivia invites Lalla to play with Harriet and the boys at their house, which Nana considers a great treat if time permits.
- Harriet respects Lalla for managing her time despite a busy schedule involving lessons, practice, and a lack of playtime.
- Lalla reveals that her aunt doesn't play her sort of games and her evenings are spent with Nana, listening to the wireless or watching television.
- Olivia finds Lalla's evenings miserable and wishes she had someone her age to play with.
- Lalla offers to help Harriet skate, and Olivia admires Harriet's unsteady progress, feeling lucky she met Lalla.
- Nana hints at talking to Mrs. King or Mr. Lindblom about Harriet's skating.
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