Family Time!
Family Time! Is a series that is aimed at educating, entertaining and inspiring children between the ages of two and seven years of age. It is intended to engage parents, teachers and children with stories that bring a healthy learning relationship among them.
Series Title: Family Time!
Table Of Contents
Grandma’s Place
I Love My Dad
Dad, Why Is My Name Alice?
Dad, Why Is my Name John?
Mom, Dad, I Want To Ask A Questio
Mom, Dad, I Want To Ask A Question
Grandma’s Place
Two-year-old Alice is looking forward to visiting granny for the first time in months. Her one-year-old brother, John, is excited. This comes after Peter and his wife, Jane, decide to take them out to her place, having been busy for a while.
I Love My Dad
Three-year-old Alice and Sandra, her cousin and age mate, are in the living room of Peter and Jane's apartment, discussing their dads. Two-year-old John is playing "Take me home" video game. He hears their conversation as Jane is busy in the kitchen preparing lunch and Peter is present at work.
Dad, Why Is My Name Alice?
Dad, Why Is my Name John?
Peter stops four-year-old Alice and three-year-old John yelling at each other over candies bought for them. Suddenly, Alice asks "Dad, why am I named Alice?" Seconds later, John asks "Dad, why am I named John"? Peter knows he has to give an answer!
Mom, Dad, I Want To Ask A Question
Alice, five years old, and her brother, John, four years old, are in the house with their parents. Alice looks worried. John is watching his favorite cartoon network: so is Peter. Jane notices Alice's mood. Later, Peter looks at his daughter and notices something wrong with her. Upon finding out what is wrong with her daughter, they are faced with the question "Dad, mom, I want to ask a question?" Peter and Jane know she needs an answer.
Timeless Worlds
On an occasion, Jane warns six-year-old Alice not to read the book, " Timeless World", because she thinks it's not good for her. However, Alice proves stubborn as she hides the book away from her mom to read it. It is in the process of reading the book that Alice later learns a lesson...
Grandma’s Place
‘My little princess, we can’t wait to get to Grandma’s place!’ Peter says. He’s excited as he leans his head on the left shoulder of his two-year-old daughter, Alice.
‘Yes dad! I want to see grandma!’ Alice responds. She’s delighted.
‘I’d promised to take you, your brother and mom to grandma but I wasn’t able to do that.’ Peter admits. He’s still leaning on her left shoulder. ‘I’m sorry, my princess.’ He stands to his feet, placing his right hand gently on her right shoulder.
‘Ok, dad. No problem.’ Alice holds his hand. ‘I love you, dad.’
‘I love you too, my princess’
Jane is in the bedroom, dressing herself and preparing her one-year-old son, John, for the outing. Peter and Alice are in the living room, waiting. It takes about fifteen minutes for Jane to get ready and another five minutes to get John dressed. They join Peter and Alice.
‘Wow! Today is going to be exciting!’ Jane screams. She’s happy.
‘Yes!!!’ shouts Alice. She sits comfortably on her dad’s laps on one of the furniture.
John is giggling. His mom’s firm gives him the confidence to move his body just as he wants.
‘Honey, you look so good’ Peter compliments, while Alice stares at her mom, carrying John with both hands.
‘Yes, mom. You’re good. I love you, mom’
Jane is moved by Alice’s words. ‘Oh my dearest, I love you too! Mom loves you more!’
She looks at Peter in affection. ‘My dear, I appreciate you all the time and your companion with our kids. You’re the best.’
Peter appreciates it. ‘Thank you’.
He winks at her. She winks back. Alice notices and does the same; she winks at her. Jane winks back at Alice, the same way. Little John tries to do the same; he tries to wink to both his sister and father. They wink back.
‘There’s so much excitement in the air!’ Peter notices. He holds Alice by her hand.
‘You could say that again, darling!’ Jane confirms.
‘Yes! Yes!! Yes!!!’ Alice shouts, jubilating.
Little John restarts his excitement. He’s still being carried with care by his mom.
‘We’re good and ready to go. Alice, John and Jane, it’s been a while. We have always desired to see grandma. Grandma has long been waiting for us. She longs to see us! But I’ve been busy at work. Today is the day! We all have to be there!’
‘Yes!!!’ Alice responds fast. She’s jumping repeatedly.
‘You’re right, dear.’ Jane agrees. She’s happy, despite firmly holding John’s big body.
John is shouting. Jane gets his favorite Candy to shut his loud mouth. He begins to take on the candy and fills his mouth with the pieces of it.
Peter takes up his car keys placed on the Center Table. He’s set.
‘Before we leave, I want us to do something. Jane, release John’
‘Okay dear’. Jane looks surprised at Peter. She releases John to roam around. John is walking within the reach of Peter and Jane. Alice is still being held by Peter’s hand.
‘Alice, walk up to John and hold him, like I held you’.
‘Okay, dad.’ Alice does it fast. She holds John by the hand, staring at her parents.
‘Good’, continues Peter. ‘Jane, stand beside me’
Jane follows through. She’s yet to know what he’s up to.
‘Now, Alice, let go off your brother’. Alice releases John. It is surprising John is standing still.
‘Alice and John, look at us, your mom and dad.’ They are both staring at their parents. Jane gets an understanding of what Peter is about to do. She’s thrilled about it.
‘Now, move towards who you like more… If you like me more, walk towards me, if you like mom more, walk towards her’
To Peter’s surprise, Alice is seen moving towards Jane and John is slowly moving towards him! Alice holds Jane’s right leg. John leans his body on Peter’s pair of shoes.
‘What happened, Alice?’ Peter wants to find out why Alice chose Jane over him. He’s curious. ‘I thought you would run towards me’
Alice keeps mute, still holding Jane by her right leg.
‘Well, like mother, like daughter. A fruit is always on the side of the tree’. Alice responds, chuckling. ‘But you have John on your side! Like father, like son!’
‘Interesting! You’re right, honey. It’s amazing my little princess moved towards your side while John is here with me. Amazing indeed!’
Peter gets hold of the car keys he once placed in his pocket.
‘People, it’s time! All roads lead to grandma’s place!
‘Yes!!!’ Alice shouts.
‘Of course’ Jane agrees.
‘AAAA…..AAAA…’ John screams.
‘Shhhhh’ Jane mutters. She puts her finger towards John’s moving lips.
They leave the house. Peter gets to the car first. The rest follow. They are in the car. It drives off…to grandma’s place.
I Love My Dad
Catherine is Jane’s younger sister. She has a daughter named Sandra. Catherine is presently taking care of her home. Her husband, James, lost his job. On many occasions, James and Catherine are seen quarrelling with each other. Sometimes, they trade words with each other, even in the presence of their daughter.
Catherine explains to Jane her condition and the need for Sandra to spend some time with her and her family. At first, James seems not to agree with that move. Eventually, he allows Sandra to stay at her aunt’s place.
Jane agrees to Catherine’s suggestion. She takes the word to her husband. After much discussion, Jane and Peter agree to allow Sandra to spend the one-month holiday at their place. James and Catherine see Sandra’s stay with Jane and her family as a good one. They believe Alice would have the time to know her cousin and age mate better. John will not be left out.
On a Tuesday morning, Jane, being off-duty at her place of work, is tidying the living room where John, now two years of age, would play his Catch Me If You Can video game, Alice and Sandra would be able to get to know each other. Jane knows Alice and Sandra are talking types. But she puts on the TV for them to watch their Cartoon Network series. Jane returns to the kitchen to prepare breakfast.
‘Sandra, my mom is preparing a delicious meal for us’ Alice voices out.
‘Meal?’ Sandra asks. She’s watching the Cartoon Network Series.
‘Swiss Cheese, Margarine and Salad Cake rice’
Sandra’s attention changes. She looks at Alice, wanting to know more.
‘Alice, that’s my best food!’ She says but looks sad. ‘My mom doesn’t make it for me’. Her chin is resting on her hands.
‘I’m sorry to hear that’ Alice says. She pities Sandra but encourages her. ‘Never mind! Mom is making a meal in the kitchen!’
John interrupts. ‘Sandra, where’s our dad?’
Sandra is slow to answer his question.
‘He’s….at…home’
Alice becomes upset.
‘John, learn to mind your business!’
‘But Sandra is my cousin. Mom told me.’
‘Play your video game and mind your business!’
John is unhappy. He looks at his sister and continues with her video game.
‘Don’t mind him’ Alice tells Sandra.
‘Ok’
‘What about your dad?’ Alice asks
‘Yes, your dad, Sandra’ John repeats the question
‘John, mind your business! Play your video game!!’
‘Ok’ John continues playing it.
Sandra is looking sad. It doesn’t stop Alice from wanting to hear her.
‘My dad is at home’ Sandra responds. He doesn’t go to work. He’s always talking bad to my mother. My mother cooks for me. She cooks for him too. But he likes to drink a lot!’
‘Is that what your dad does?’ John asks, all of a sudden.
‘John, is Sandra talking to you?’
‘No…but she’s my cousin’’
‘Play your video games! Play your video games!!’
‘Ok’
Alice continues her talk. ‘My dad is at work. He takes care of us. He buys us things, I love my dad.’
Sandra is moved by Alice’s words. ‘I love my dad too. He’s the best dad in the world!’
Jane over-hears what they are talking about. She’s done with what she’s preparing for breakfast. She brings out the meals in pairs until the Center Table is filled with plates of meals. Sandra and Alice are excited. John stops his video game to join them.
‘I heard you all,’ Jane said, giving Alice, Sandra and John cutleries.
‘Sandra, I heard when you said I LOVE MY DAD. HE’S THE BEST MAN IN THE WORLD! I was moved by what you said. Your dad may be going through a lot now but everything, I mean, everything, will be alright. Trust me! He will buy you all you want in the world. He will give your mom money to prepare your best food! Ok?’
‘I know what my dad can do’ Sandra says. She sounds confident.
‘That’s it, girl!’
‘Like my dad too!’ Alice states.
‘Of course, my daughter’
‘Dad is my dad’ John boasts.
‘Yes, my son’
‘Let’s begin! Breakfast is ready! As a rule here, don’t talk when you eat. Do you hear me?’
‘Yes!!!’ Alice, Sandra and John answer
They are eating the meal with so much excitement. Their mood tells how delicious the meals are. Sandra eats all, asking for more. Jane takes her plate to the kitchen. She scoops in the plate and returns to her. Sandra eats to her satisfaction. Alice and John are done with their meals. Alice takes a nap. John goes back playing his video game. Sandra is watching the Cartoon Network Series. She’s happy, indeed!
Dad, Why Is My Name Alice?
Dad, Why Is my Name John?
‘Dad bought me three candies. He left one for you!’ Four-year-old Alice yells at three-year-old John
‘It’s a lie! Dad bought four candies, gave me two and two for you!’ John replies. He is struggling to get two candies from Alice. But Alice is refusing to let go.
‘These three candies are mine. Only one is yours! So take that!
‘No!!! Two are mine’
Take your hands off the candies!! I’m going to give you just one! I’m taking the rest’
‘No way! I’m having two!’
‘Take your hands off the candies. I’m giving you just one. And that’s it! Just one! I’ll take the rest’
‘No! I’m having two!’
‘I will call dad now’
Alice yells. ‘Dad!!!’
Peter, who is sleeping, after working throughout the night, is forced to wake. He hears his daughter’s voice repeat.
‘I’m coming, Alice!’
Peter gets to where Alice and John are----the passageway-the entrance between his bedroom and living room.
‘What happened?’ Peter asks. He’s struggling to clear the dirt from his eyes.
‘It’s John’ Alice answers. She holds tight the three candies
‘It’s Alice,’ John replies, struggling to take hold of one of the candies Alice is holding tightly.
‘Ok. Alice, tell me what happened?’
‘I told John three of the candies belong to me. Only one is for him.’
‘No dad.’ John refuses. ‘Dad, I told her you bought two for me and two for her’
‘Alright…You want the three candies, Alice. Right?’
‘Yes, dad’
‘John, you want the two candies, right?’
‘Yes’
Peter changes position to place his hands around the shoulders of Alice and John.
‘Your mom is not at home. You know I’m sleeping. I’m very, very tired, Alice. You shouldn’t have just woke me up like this’
‘I’m sorry, dad’
‘Apology accepted’
‘John, you know Alice is your elder sister, right?’
‘Yes dad’
‘Why shout at her?’
John is reluctant to answer. He is frowning at his dad. ‘Dad, you bought us four candies yesterday. Alice is saying she’s having three and I’m having just one’
‘Alice, is that what you told him?’ Peter asks. He’s surprised
‘Yes…dad,’ Alice replies. She knows that’s wrong.
‘John, what did you say to your sister?’
‘I told her I will take two of the candies and she will take the other two’
‘Is that why you screamed my name?’ Peter questions, looking upset.
For about a minute, Alice and John maintain silence. Alice nods her head: she agrees. John looks at those candies. He desires to have them.
‘John and Alice, I bought those candies for you both but I didn’t mean three for Alice and one for John, nor did I say two for Alice and two for John. Whosoever gets to where the candies were kept takes them all. And by the way, who got there first?’
Alice is quick to respond. She points to her chest. ‘Me!’
‘Okay. John, she called you, right?’
‘Yes’
‘I placed those candies on the table for whoever gets to see them first’ Peter touches the table. ‘John, thank our sister. She called you to have a share of the candies. If she didn’t call you, would you have known?’
‘No dad’ John answers. He’s moving his head from left to right; he’s still repeating it.
‘Alice, remember John is your younger brother. Treat him kindly. He’s learning from you’
‘Yes, dad. I will’
‘I trust you, my little princess’. Now, John, apologize to your sister’
John stretches his hand on Alice’s shoulder. ‘I’m sorry’
‘That’s good!’ Peter says. ‘By the way, how did you, Alice and John, know I bought candies yesterday? You all were asleep.’
‘Dad, I know you are the one ‘Alice answers. ‘Mom doesn’t give such candies’
‘It’s true. Mom doesn’t!’ John agrees.
Peter smiles. ‘I hear you. Kids, can I go back to bed now?’
‘Hmmm ... .not yet’ Alice thinks. She looks upwards.
‘Go and sleep, dad’ John answers. He’s still wondering at how many candies he will take.
‘John, you’re with one of the candies’
‘Yes, dad’
‘Alice, three?’
‘Yes, dad’
‘Alice, do you want to give John one more candy or not?’
‘Dad, I want him to have just one. He has it already!’
‘Ok! That settles it! Are you happy now?’
‘I’m happy’ Alice responds, looking all excited.
John answers slowly. ‘Ye….sss’ . He feels he’s being cheated. Peter is unmoved by that.
‘Can I go back to sleep now?’
John is quick to respond. ‘Dad, yes’
Alice thinks differently. ‘ I don’t think so’ Peter can’t believe his eyes.
‘Alice, why? Can’t you see I’m tired? Can’t you allow me to rest?’
‘Dad’, Alice states, staring at him, ‘I want to ask you a question’
‘Hmmm…what’s it?
John is about to go to the living room when he hears Alice’s question, ‘Dad, why is my name Alice?’.
He looks back and moves to where she is. ‘Dad, why is my name John?’
Peter looks at John. ‘Why are you copying what your sister says and does?’
John replies fast. ‘You said I should learn from her’
‘Ok!!!’
Peter struggles to find strength to move them into the living room. He sits on the center furniture. It’s very spacious in size. Alice and John rush to sit on his lap instead. They are waiting to hear their father’s answer.
Peter begins the story…
‘Kids, it’s a long story. Alice, before you were born, a long time ago, when I was your age, I had a teacher named Ms Alice. She taught me how to read, write and be good at arithmetic. She was very friendly. But she died suddenly because of a car accident.’
‘Sorry to hear that, dad.’ Alice voices. She looks down at the carpet of the living room.
‘Thank you, sweetheart’ Peter appreciates. He’s not happy about Ms Alice’s story. He has to continue…’Alice, I named you after her.’
‘John, I was twelve years of age when your grandma, my mother, took me to secondary school when I met my first teacher, Mr. John. He was such a nice man. But he suddenly left our school. I still remember him …I named you after him.’
‘Okay’ John remarks. He’s not moved.
‘I decided that when I have my children, I will name them those names. Thankfully, you and John came along.’ Peter points fingers at Alice and John. ‘That’s why I named you Alice, That’s why I named John’
‘I love this story!’ Alice notes. She jumps off to the ground.
‘Good story!’ John says. He does the same as Alice.
‘Children, can I go and have some sleep?’
‘Yes!!!’ They both shout.
Peter goes to his bedroom to observe some sleep.
Mom, Dad, I Want To Ask A Question
Alice, Jane and Peter are taking a walk along the street. It’s a part of their Saturday exercise. John, five years old, is playing football at the Street’s Children Community Pitch. It’s a family tradition. Six-year-old Alice aspires to be an athlete and a health worker.
After the routine Saturday morning exercise, Peter and the rest of the family return home, take their baths, dress well, observe morning meals, and watch TV programs, play all kinds of video games that are family-friendly and rest for the day, while lunch and dinner are prepared afterwards.
On a fateful Saturday morning, after observing their exercise, the family---Peter, Jane, Alice and John---are in the housing watching TV. Jane sits next to her husband, with Alice on her side, and John by his side, notice Alice isn’t looking happy. She signals to Peter to have a look at Alice’s pale face. John is enjoying the show---The Power Of Rangers. Peter realizes Alice isn’t looking well.
Peter uses a soft voice to call Alice’s attention.
‘Alice!!!’
‘Yes, Dad.’ Alice turns her attention from watching TV to him.
‘Your mom and I noticed you aren’t looking happy. What’s the problem, my little princes?’
Alice appears not interested to answer his question.
‘Nothing’ She looks back at the TV, still looking pale. John is carried away by the program.
Jane isn’t happy either, with her daughter’s moody look.
‘Alice, what’s wrong?’
‘Mom, I’m okay’
‘Alice, I know you, as your mother, when you’re okay and not. Tell me, are you really okay?’
Alice turns to her mother. She looks directly in her eyes.
‘No, I’m not okay’
‘Dear, I know it!’
‘You know better’ Peter agrees, staring at Alice.
‘Pretty girl, why is my daughter not happy today?’
Five-year-old Alice wants a word of assurance from her parents.
‘Dad, mom, I want you to do me favor’
‘What’s it, my dear little princess?’ Peter asks. He’s curious to know.
‘I am at our beck and call.’ Alice assures. She wants to know what her daughter is asking.
‘Mom, dad, I want to ask you a question. That’s the favor I want you to do for me’
‘Please go ahead with the question’ Peter replies
‘I’m all ears. I’m your mother. Ask me!’
‘Dad, mom, are you sure you’ll answer the question I’m about to ask you?
‘Yes, little princess’ Peter assures
‘Of course, my daughter’ Says Jane
‘Are you sure, mom, dad?’
‘We are your parents. Aren’t we?’
‘You are’
‘I will answer your question,’ Alice says, though she’s unsure of what her daughter would ask.
‘No problem. Trust me! I’m your dad!’
‘Okay. Dad, I want to know what makes you a woman…Mom, I want to know what makes you a man…’
Peter and Jane express shock. Words can’t express how surprised they are. They are yet to believe what the question they heard from Alice. John, earlier watching the Power Of Rangers program, swiftly switches attention to the discussion.
‘Dad, what makes you a man? Mom, what makes you a woman?
Peter replies to his son, ‘John, why are you repeating what Alice just asked?’
‘Dad, you told me to always learn from my sister! I want to learn from her!’
‘Hmmm….’Jane appears confused. She stares at her husband who is staring at his children. John and Alice are staring at their parents, waiting for answers…
Peter inquires. ‘Alice, what made you ask such a question?’
‘I’m wondering myself’ Jane says. She looks at her daughter in amazement.
‘Dad, mom, I was at home when I heard our neighbor quarrelling. Joseph and his wife. I heard his wife ask WHAT MAKES YOU A MAN? and her husband ask WHAT MAKES YOU A WOMAN?
‘Is it the reason you chose to ask us? Peter wonders. Jane is in disbelief.
‘Yes, dad. Remember you promised to do me a favour.’ Alice turns her attention off from Peter to Jane. ‘Mom, you assured me you’ll answer my questions. I’m waiting for answers!’ Alice stands akimbo. She looks at them. John is also waiting to hear from his parents. Peter and Jane look at each other. Peter and Jane take a look at each other twice. They take a look at their children. Alice and John are staring at their parents, unafraid. Jane signals Peter. Peter looks at every corner of the living room. He has to answer the questions.
Being a man, Alice, means your ability to take care of your family. Provide for your wife and kids. As your dad, I owe you all a duty to provide and protect. It’s my duty! It’s my responsibility!’
Alice is satisfied with Peter’s response. Jane can’t help expressing how happy she is feeling towards Peter.
‘That’s my husband! That’s your dad, Alice!’
‘Thanks Jane!’ It’s my duty as a man to be responsible for me, my wife, and you…hmmm…Alice and John’
‘Yes!!’ John screams but keeps quite later.
Alice continues. ‘Mom, over to you….What makes you a woman?’
‘Interesting question! It shows you want to grow from being just a girl to a woman. You want to be ahead of your peers. I will answer you only on one condition’
Alice is curious to know what she meant. ‘Condition?’
‘Yes, condition, my dear.’ Jane maintains, looking at Alice with seriousness. ‘Please and please , promise me, your mom, and your dad, you won’t involve yourself with Joseph and wife…’
‘I cross my heart’ Alice shows it. ‘I won’t do that’
‘I won’t’ John says, crossing his chest with his hands, as did Alice.
‘Good. I trust and believe in my children. Now, to your question, what makes me a woman…ahh…A woman is known by how she nurtures her children. She is known for the discipline she instills in the lives of her children, husband and family. That’s a mother! Alice, John, haven’t I been a good mother to you all?’
‘Yes, you are, mom,’ John answers, hugging her.
‘You’re a good mother’ Alice answers, hugging her too.
Alice isn’t done yet. Peter and Jane know too. They are aware their daughter would ask more questions.
‘Dad, I want to ask’
‘Ok. Go ahead’
‘We’re all ears’ Jane says.
‘Dad, mom, what did you do to give birth to me? John follows as well. ‘Dad, mom, what did you do to birth me?’
Peter and Jane look at each other again. They are stunned. Though they expect Alice to ask more questions, Peter and Jane don’t know how serious her questions would get.
‘John, not you, this time!’ Says Peter, who looks concerned.
‘Not you, my son’ Jane reacts. She’s disturbed.
‘As your father, I will say this: your mother and I were together. AND Nature designed you, Alice and you, John, to come into this world through us’
‘How?’ asks Alice. She’s interested in knowing more.
Peter answers again. ‘I will say this: your mom and I are fond of each other. When we became fond of each other the natural way, Alice and John came into Mother Earth! That’s all I have to say!’
‘I agree with your father and all he has to say’ Jane reacts. She can’t wait to put an end to Alice’s serious questions. ‘Case closed!!’
‘Mom, dad, not yet!’ Alice refuses. She reminds them. ‘Dad, mom, remember you assured me you’ll answer my questions’
Peter corrects. ‘No, my little princess. You only told me to do you a favour, not favours’
‘Okay, dad. But answer this last question…’
Jane isn’t feeling comfortable with Alice’s questions. ‘What’s this last question?’
‘Okay, mom. Okay, dad. The question is…’ Alice stares at the curious faces of her parents. John pays close attention.
‘Sometimes, I don’t feel like a girl anymore! I feel like you dad!’
‘What????!’ Peter asks, screaming at ALICE
‘What did you just say?’ Jane questions Alice.
‘Oh my goodness! Did I just ask the question?!’ Alice asks her parents. She’s in shock herself.
‘Are you okay, Alice?’ Peter stretches his hand towards Alice’s forehead to know if she’s okay.
‘Dear, our daughter is alright, it’s just that something came into her. Can’t place a finger to it’
Jane is stunned at Alice’s unusual questions.
‘Alice, are you a boy or a girl?
‘Dad, I’m a girl! I’m sorry!’
‘You had better be! Apologies accepted’
‘Alice, one more time, say after me, I AM A GIRL!!!’ Jane instructs
Alice says in confidence: ‘I AM A GIRL!!’
‘Good!! As your mother, from today onwards, I will get you a book to write page by page the words I AM A GIRL. A full page everyday… ‘Jane tells ALICE.
She leaves the living room to get a notebook across the street. That is to get Alice started.
‘My little princess, from this day forward, you will always say to me, I AM A GIRL, at least once a day. Ok?’
‘Yes, dad’ Alice knows she’s in for a big homework
‘John I thought you’d follow your sister’
‘’No! Dad, I’m a boy! When I grow up, I will be a man like you! I will grow up to be a man! I will always be a man!’
‘That’s my son!’ Peter applauds.
‘Yes, dad!’
‘Alice and John, go and play’
Alice and John leave the house to join other children at the Children’s Community Playground.
Timeless Worlds
Alice and Hope are friends and pupils of the Graham Elementary School. Six-year-olds are always seen together, in and out of the classrooms. They are hardly away from each other.
After observing the physical education class, Alice and Hope get talking. Hope wants to tell Alice what’s she’s hiding in her bag.
‘Alice, I have something I want to tell you’
‘What’s it, hope?’
Alice realizes Hope’s voice is unusual. Hope keeps a low voice to avoid being heard by the rest of the class, waiting for the next teacher.
‘Close your eyes, Alice’
‘For what, Hope?’
‘Just do it for me’
Alice feels reluctant at first but she closes her eyes. Hope deeps her hand into her large-sized brown bag to take out the book, Timeless Worlds.
‘Open your eyes, Alice’
Alice is surprised to see the book in her hands.
‘What? How did you get this?’
Alice is about to scream Hope shows the SHH hand sign.
‘Quiet, please’
Alice keeps silent. But she can’t hide her feelings, though she isn't talking aloud.
‘Hope, you know this book is not allowed to be read in school. Why did you bring it?’
‘I know. I stole it at my uncle’s place. Don’t tell anyone!’
‘Why would you do that?’
‘I don’t know’
‘Alice, do you mind having the book?’
Alice answers in haste: ‘NO!’
‘Alice, are you sure?’
‘Ok. Let me have it’
‘Let me have your bag’
Alice surrenders her bag. Hope deeps the book inside her bag.
‘Done! Please don’t take it out!
‘Ok’
Alice is staring at Hope in an unusual way. Hope doesn’t mind. The wait is over. The next teacher comes to class. The pupils are ready to be taught.
At Home….
Jane is in the house. She is happy seeing her daughter come home.
‘How was school today?’
‘Fine. I was only taught five subjects.’
‘I see. What are they?’
‘The subjects are Physical Education, Basic Arithmetic, English, Social Studies, Basic Science and Elementary Home Economics.
‘Good! Which of the subjects did you find most interesting?’
‘Physical Education’
‘Why?’
‘The teacher teaches well and I want to be an athlete and a health worker when I grow up’
‘That’s my daughter! You have always told me since you were little. Happy for you!’
‘Thanks mom!’
‘Any homework?’
‘No’
Jane is amazed. ‘Why no homework?’
‘I don’t know’
Okay’
‘Where’s my brother?’ Alice realizes John is not around the house.
Your brother is at the Community Playground. Remember, his fifth birthday is coming up in a few weeks. You, your dad and I will have to plan a birthday surprise for him.
Alice thinks. She remembers. ‘John will be five and I’m six already. But you didn’t celebrate my birthday. Why?’
‘Alice, you should know your dad and I didn’t have the money. But I promise to do a big birthday party when you turn seven next year. Trust me!’
‘Okay mom’ Alice appears not to be bothered. Her concern is the book in her bag.
‘Alice, I think you need to rest. Go and shower. I’m going to the Playground to call your brother.’
‘Okay, mom.’ Alice goes to her room to change her uniform. She heads to the bathroom to shower. After that, she takes the book out of her bag to read while Jane goes out to get John. Lunch is almost ready as she prepares it before Alice’s arrival from school.
Twenty minutes later…
Jane and John are back. John looks tired and dirty. He still wants to play his video game. Alice is now reading the ‘Timeless Worlds’ book. Jane is in the kitchen dishing lunch. Lunch is now ready! Jane and John are at the center table. They notice Alice is yet to join them.
‘Which book are you reading?’ Jane asks. She is wondering why Alice is so engaged in reading rather than having lunch.
Alice realizes it's lunch time.
‘Oh! My book!’
‘My book? What’s the title? Your book?’
Alice looks at her mom and brother. She closes the book to join them. Jane is forced to ask: ‘Which book are you holding in your hand?’
Alice becomes a bit nervous.
‘It’s my book’
‘I didn’t remember buying you such a book. Let me have it’
Alice seems scared. She hands over the book to her. John knows all is not well with Alice.
‘What’s wrong with you?’ John asks.
He’s concerned over Alice’s mood.
‘Nothing! It’s none of your business!’
‘Okay Alice!’
Jane gets her hands on the book. She sees the back and front covers, and reads the title. She becomes upset with Alice.
‘Alice, who gave you this book?’
‘I got it from school’
‘I ‘m asking; who gave you this book I’m holding?’
‘Somebody’
‘No name? Does he or she have no name?’
John interrupts. ‘Mom, I’m hungry!’
‘My dear, lunch is set. Just wait for a moment…’
‘Okay’ John looks at Alice wrongly.
‘Back to my question, Alice. Who gave you this book? Jane is still looking at the front and back covers.
‘A friend’
‘What’s the name?’
‘Hope’
‘Who is she to you?’
‘My friend’
‘Really? Why would your friend, Hope, give you such a book? How did she get it in the first place?’
‘Mom, I’m sorry’
John interrupts again. ‘What are you sorry for?’
‘It’s none of your business!’ Alice replies to John. ‘I’m talking to mom, not you!’
‘Okay’
John reminds Jane about lunch time. ‘Mom, it’s lunch time! I’m hungry!’
‘Don’t worry. You’ll eat. But I’m very angry with your sister. Alice, I’ll keep this book with me. I’ll wait for your dad to come back from work. He’ll know about this. Maybe you’ll tell him more!’
‘I’m sorry, mom. It won’t happen again’
‘Indeed…I hear you! Let’s eat. John, it’s time. Alice, join us. After eating, we’ll wait for your dad to come back. We’ll continue. Alice is begging her mom.
‘Don’t do this’
‘We’ll see about it’
Jane serves John and Alice lunch. John is eating like a hungry man, Alice is barely scooping from her plate of food to her mouth. Jane is not disturbed at all. They are done eating. Jane, already tired, falls asleep. John goes to the bedroom to sleep. Alice is lucky to have the book from where Jane kept it, just beside where she’s sleeping---the largest piece of furniture in the living room. She quietly returns to her room to continue reading….
Alice is relaxed on her bed reading through the first five pages of the book. Under the influence of the Split Unit air-conditioner in the room, she falls asleep to continue the story.
Alice finds herself in the middle of nowhere, Confused she is, the question is asked, ‘where am I’ All of a sudden, three beings come out of nowhere. One of them seems to be the leader. Infinitely tall and giant-looking with a blurry face, it answers, ‘Welcome to the Timeless Worlds. You’re Alice, right?’
‘Yes, I am’ Alice is scared. Her heart is beating fast.
‘You were reading our book, Timeless Worlds’. As it stands, you’re the character, Xoha.’
‘What? Six-year-old Alice exclaims
‘Let me introduce us to you. ‘ Each of the beings takes turns to introduce who they are. The infinitely tall and giant-looking , blurry-faced being, begins.
‘I am energy’
‘I am next in line, Frequency’
‘I am consciousness’
Alice looks confused. Now Xoha, she has no idea of her present state. The beings understand. Energy is the spokesperson of the beings. It decides to put Xoha through
To begin with, you’re at the highest level of the universe. It is called the Timeless Worlds. In our worlds, time does not exist. Xoha, you exist in our worlds together. You exist in the World of Energy, the World of Frequency and the World of Consciousness. We are separate but all in one body—the universe. That’s why the book you were reading is Timeless Worlds.
‘Interesting!’ Xoha reacts. ‘Can I meet my mates?
‘Sadly, Xoha, our world is for beings that are of us. They are not for aliens like you! They are timeless!’
‘How did I get myself here?’
‘You were reading our book, Timeless Worlds. You read a situation where the character, Xoha, in the beginning but you were asleep in your room. Tell me, if we’re wrong’
‘You’re correct’
‘Now, as Xoha, you are to continue…the story’
They realize Xoha is scared and wants to return to humanity.
‘We know you want to return to your world. Avoid our book. It’s not for you.’
‘I will’ Xohas assures. Tears are seen rolling down her eyes.
‘You’re situated at the crossroad between eternity and humanity. It’s called the Well Of Return. Energy, Frequency and Consciousness join forces to create a visible portion of the Well of Return.
Xoha is heard screaming as she finds herself drowning through it. It turns out Alice is screaming to the ears of Jane, Peter and John. They rush in to find Alice screaming. Peter gets to her bedside and holds her in a fatherly way. Jane touches her body, with care, to see if she’s feverish. John is looking on, wondering what’s going on.
‘Oh dear, what happened?’ Peter asks, holding Alice by his arms.
‘Dad, I’m sorry’ Alice said, looking at the book.
Jane sees the book.
‘But I told you not to read this book. How could you have read it?
At this point, Peter is lost
‘Which book, Alice, Jane?’ He looks at Jane and Alice for answers.
‘Mom, which book? John asks
‘I’m sorry for not telling you this. Alice came home from school. I engaged her in a talk. John was at the Playground . I was almost done preparing lunch. I went out to call John, But it turned out a certain Hope gave her book , Timeless Worlds. I had to ask her to find out. But after lunch, I felt tired and fell asleep. I also told her I will discuss everything with you…But I forgot. I apologize, dear.’
‘What’s the book title, please?’
‘Timeless Worlds’
‘Where’s the book?’
Alice points at it. Peter can’t believe his eyes. John is listening.
‘Alice, why would you read such a book? That’s not a good book for you.’
‘I’m sorry, dad. It won’t happen again’
‘Okay…Jane continues…’
‘Good. It’s a long story. But what caught my attention was Alice brought home a book that wasn’t hers! I’m deeply disappointed in Alice!’ Jane walks towards the Door Post, leaving Peter with Alice. John looks on.
I understand, Jane. You are only human. Mistakes do happen’
Jane adds more information. She involves John in the whole thing.‘ Thanks. John was a witness. John, didn’t I talk to your sister about the book?’
‘Yes, mom’ John points his finger at Alice. ‘She was reading the book’
‘Shut up, John!’
‘No! No!! No!!! John speak up!’ Peter commands.
‘Alice, don’t say that again!’
‘I’m sorry dad’
‘You’d better be’
John continues. ‘She was just reading . I told mom I’m hungry. Mo told me lunch will be served. I waited until mom got the book’
‘Okay, John. I hear you. Alice, will you try it again?’
Alice sheds tears. ‘ Dad, I won’t try that again’
‘Are you sure?’ Jane asks.
‘No!’
‘Alice, don’t try this again. ‘ John advises
Alice looks at John wrongly
‘My daughter, what did you learn from the book?’
‘Never to read the book again!’
‘That’s Fine. Jane , tomorrow, accompany to school and return the book to her Hope friend’
‘Your wish is my command. Had it in mind, earlier’
‘Our daughter has learnt her lesson. So, I’m about to leave. Do you mind following me?’ Peter asks Alice and John. Jane is still at the door post, looking.
‘Yes’ Alice and John answered.
Jane leaves. Peter, Alice and John leave the bedroom together. They are all in the living room, looking excited
‘