The Apothecary

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of ableism and gender discrimination.

“First the whole world changed. Another war started in Korea, against the Chinese, who had been our allies in the last war. The Russians, who had also been our allies, had the atomic bomb and seemed inclined to use it against us. The Communist threat was supposed to be everywhere, though my parents thought it was exaggerated.”

This description of Janie’s life leading up to her parents’ decision to relocate the family helps establish the book’s realism and its setting in time as a work of historical fiction. Janie describes events and tensions that once existed in the real world, which is especially important when apparently magical events take place, adding the aspect of magical realism.

“My parents tried to pretend everything was just fine, but we took back alleys, and they watched the corners at every street.”

This description indirectly characterizes Janie, demonstrating her discernment and critical faculties. Although her parents try to act as though there’s nothing to worry about, Janie is perceptive enough to note their vigilance and concerns despite what they tell her. Her acumen helps establish The Intelligence of Children as a theme.

“I didn’t have a uniform yet, and wore my bright green Hepburn trousers and a yellow sweater, which looked normal in LA, but here looked clownishly out of place. I might as well have carried a giant sign saying I DON’T BELONG.”

This indirect characterization demonstrates Janie’s typicality; she isn’t exceptionally confident, wise, or smart. She is, in many ways, a normal 14-year-old, teetering somewhere between childhood and adulthood, learning to make her way in a world that is outside her comfort zone. Her obvious discomfort and desire for confidence help ground her character in realism, making her a relatable narrator.