Happy Jack Decides to Make a Call explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Courage and Fear

  Happy Jack overcomes his fear of visiting Farmer Brown's house, showing courage.

• Kindness and Gratitude

  Happy Jack's gratitude for Farmer Brown's boy's past kindness motivates his visit.

Characters to notice

• Happy Jack Squirrel

  Decides to visit Farmer Brown's boy after hearing he is unwell, overcoming his fear.

• Tommy Tit the Chickadee

  Brings news of Farmer Brown's boy and encourages Happy Jack to visit.

• Farmer Brown

  Farmer Brown's boy is the subject of Happy Jack's concern; he saved Happy Jack and now is unwell.

• Shadow the Weasel

  Mentioned as the one from whom Farmer Brown's boy saved Happy Jack.

• Bowser the Hound

  Mentioned as a potential danger to avoid during the visit.

Key passages

• “You’ll find when all is said and done Two heads are better far than one.”

  Two people working together are more effective than one alone.

  Opening couplet sets the theme of cooperation.

• “The fact is, he had something on his mind, and that something was Farmer Brown’s boy.”

  He was preoccupied with thoughts of Farmer Brown's boy.

  Highlights Happy Jack's concern.

• “Love had taken the place of hate in his heart, for had not Farmer Brown’s boy saved him from Shadow the Weasel, and brought him nuts and corn when food was scarce?”

  His former hatred turned to love because Farmer Brown's boy saved his life and provided food.

  Explains the transformation in Happy Jack's feelings.

• “One must feel very badly indeed not to be a little more cheerful when Tommy Tit is about.”

  Tommy Tit's presence always lifts one's spirits.

  Describes Tommy's cheerful influence.

• ““I’ll do it!” said he in a very decided tone of voice. “Let’s start right away.””

  Happy Jack firmly agrees and is eager to begin.

  Shows his resolve to visit Farmer Brown's boy.