Five Children and It · Chapter
XI: The Last Wish explained
On the final day they can make wishes, the children learn their mother is returning home and decide to wish for something to please her.
What happens
On the final day they can make wishes, the children learn their mother is returning home and decide to wish for something to please her. Jane inadvertently wishes that the stolen jewels of Lady Chittenden appear in their mother's room, causing panic. The children cannot find the Psammead to undo the wish, but when their mother arrives, she discovers a beautiful ring. Later, the children find the Psammead and wish for it to have a long sleep and to see it again someday. The wish is granted, and it is revealed that Lady Chittenden's diamonds were never stolen, resolving the crisis.
Themes in this chapter
Wish Fulfillment and Its Consequences
Jane's careless wish for the stolen jewels to appear in mother's room leads to fear of police and Bedlam, highlighting the unintended consequences of wishes.
Truth and Deception
The children struggle with whether to tell their mother the truth about the Psammead, fearing she won't believe them, and ultimately the truth is avoided as the crisis resolves.
Family and Sibling Dynamics
The siblings work together to protect Jane and decide to wish for something to please their mother, showing their bond and concern for family.
Characters to notice
- Cyril
Discusses wish ideas and worries about the consequences of Jane's wish; later makes paper boats while waiting.
- Anthea
Warns against careless wishes; suggests telling mother the truth; leads the search for the Psammead and makes the final wish for its sleep.
- Robert
Plans to make money exploring Africa; tries to comfort Jane after her wish; searches for the Psammead.
- Jane
Inadvertently wishes for Lady Chittenden's jewels to appear in mother's room; feels miserable and is comforted by the others.
- The Psammead
Grants the final wish for a long sleep and to be seen again; disappears into the sand.
- Mother
Returns home; finds the ring on her dressing table; later has a carriage accident but is unharmed.
Key passages
“I don't see why she should ever have had such lots of diamonds... And mother hasn't any diamonds, and hardly any jewels—the topaz necklace, and the sapphire ring daddy gave her when they were engaged, and the garnet star, and the little pearl brooch with great-grandpapa's hair in it—that's about all.”
Anthea contrasts Lady Chittenden's vast wealth in diamonds with their mother's modest collection of sentimental jewelry.
Highlights the theme of wealth and its limitations, and sets up Jane's wish.
“I hope we've done right? said Jane. I'm sure we have, said Anthea.”
Jane and Anthea reassure each other that their final wish for the Psammead's well-being was the correct choice.
Shows the children's moral growth and concern for the Psammead's welfare.