1. Why was Kezia afraid of her father?

Kezia was afraid of her father because he was portrayed as a stern, intimidating figure. His large size, loud voice, sharp tone, and the stern looks he gave her over his spectacles were terrifying to the young girl. His interactions with Kezia also tended to be authoritative, like commanding her to take off his boots or chiding her for stuttering. The fact that she felt relief when he left for work each day highlights her fear and discomfort around him.

2. Who were the people in Kezia’s family?

The people in Kezia’s family include her father, mother, and grandmother.

3. What was Kezia’s father’s routine?

(i) Before going to his office, he would come into Kezia’s room and give her a casual kiss.

(ii) After coming back from his office, he would call for his tea and newspaper, and Kezia would be asked to take off his boots. He would then put on his spectacles and demand various services from the household.

(iii) On Sundays, Kezia’s father would lie stretched out on the sofa with a handkerchief on his face, his feet on one of the best cushions, sleeping and snoring.

4. In what ways did Kezia’s grandmother encourage her to get to know her father better?

Kezia’s grandmother encouraged her to get to know her father better by sending her down to the drawing-room to have a “nice talk with Father and Mother” on Sunday afternoons. She also suggested that Kezia make a pin-cushion for her father’s birthday gift, which could be seen as an attempt to encourage a bonding activity.