Strangers in Time Chapter 19: A Decision Made – Summary & Analysis
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
Charlie and his gran share a meagre wartime meal. Gran laments the strict rationing – bacon cut to three ounces, cooking fat halved, and sugar rations yielding only two ounces despite a full pound allocation. She announces a planned trip to the church hall canteen and later a meat pie from the chippie. Charlie produces two lumps of coal that he claims fell off a lorry; in truth he stole them. He then shows Gran an empty book he says he found in an alley. Gran questions whether he needs paper for school, and Charlie lies, saying the school provides copy books. That night in his cupboard bed, Charlie decides to sell the book rather than keep it, because “paper was useless to him” while coins were not. He recalls meeting Molly Wakefield in Chelsea while trying to steal scarce goods, but he came home empty-handed. The rain comforts him, as he believes the Germans will not bomb during poor weather.
Key Events
- Gran delivers a lengthy complaint about food rationing, mentioning Lord Woolton and the Ministry of Food.
- Gran shares her small portion of bread and butter with Charlie.
- Charlie produces stolen coal to warm the room, lying about its origin.
- Charlie shows Gran the empty book, claiming he found it in an alley.
- Gran questions his school writing supplies; Charlie lies about needing only copy books.
- Alone in bed, Charlie decides to sell the book for money.
- Charlie recalls his trip to Chelsea to steal from wealthier homes, where he briefly met Molly Wakefield.
- He falls asleep comforted by the rain, believing bad weather prevents German bombing.
Character Development
Charlie demonstrates increasing resourcefulness and deception. He steals coal, lies about the book’s origin, and fabricates an excuse about school copy books. His decision to sell the book shows he prioritises practical gain over sentimental value. Gran is portrayed as caring but struggling — she gives Charlie the larger portion of bread and plans treats despite her grievances. Her detailed knowledge of rationing shows her resilience and sharp tongue. Molly Wakefield is recalled only briefly, but the mention connects Charlie’s scavenging to the earlier encounter.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
Rationing and Survival: The chapter is steeped in the physical and emotional toll of WWII food and fuel rationing. Gran’s monologue underscores the scarcity and the government’s perceived inefficiency.
Deception as Survival: Charlie lies repeatedly — about the coal, the book, and his school needs — revealing that dishonesty is a tool for getting by in a deprived environment.
The Empty Book: The blank pages represent unused potential or a commodity to be sold. Charlie sees no use for them; he cannot write and does not value paper. The book may later become a plot device — a blank slate for secrets or a symbol of missed opportunity.
Weather and Safety: The rain and poor weather are linked to safety from air raids. Charlie prays for inclement conditions, showing a child’s adaptation to wartime fear.
Why This Chapter Matters
Chapter 19 crystallises Charlie’s pragmatic decision about the empty book, which sets up a future plot development. It deepens the portrait of life on the home front — especially the relentless struggle for food and fuel. The chapter also reinforces Charlie’s character as a survivor who will lie and steal to get by, and it plants the memory of Molly Wakefield, suggesting their meeting will have lasting significance.
Study Questions and Answers
1. Why does Charlie lie to his gran about the coal and the book?
Charlie lies because he knows Gran would disapprove of stealing and of his wandering into dangerous alleyways. He wants to appear honest while still benefiting from the coal and the book’s potential value. His lies protect his reputation and his freedom to continue scavenging.
2. What does the empty book symbolise at this point in the story?
The empty book symbolises unused potential and the stark priorities of wartime. Charlie cannot see a use for blank paper because he lacks a pencil and does not value writing; he only sees it as a commodity to trade for coins. It also hints at deeper mysteries—perhaps the book will later be used for a hidden message or map.
3. How does the weather reflect Charlie’s state of mind?
Charlie feels relief when rain falls, believing that bad weather will keep German bombers away. The rain mirrors his desire for safety and his constant awareness of danger. His prayer for “the worst possible inclemency” shows that even nature offers a temporary shield from war.