Adrian Mole’s World: Key Characters and Plot Insights
Adrian Mole: True or False Scenarios
- 1. False. Adrian criticizes both his parents. He calls his dad a hypochondriac and questions his mom’s choice to live with him. He views his mom as selfish, unintelligent, and a heavy drinker, even blaming her for his skin problems due to poor nutrition.
- 2. False. Adrian believes Mr. Lucas is a kind and helpful neighbor for giving his mom rides. He thinks his mom spends time with Mr. Lucas simply to comfort him.
- 3. False. Nigel lied to Pandora about her father to date her. He also revealed a secret Adrian had confided in him.
- 4. False. Adrian received no Valentine’s cards and was being threatened by a bully.
- 5. True. There was insufficient food at home, bills were unpaid, and his father was frequently unemployed.
Key Events and Plot Points
- 1. His wife took all the furniture when she left him.
- 2. Adrian called Social Services to inquire about help for Bert Baxter, an elderly man he visited.
- 3. Adrian’s mom stated she was going to Sheffield with Mr. Lucas.
- 4. The electricity was disconnected because Mr. Mole had not paid the bills.
- 5. Adrian received a letter from the hospital regarding his upcoming surgery.
Character Motivations and Relationships
- 1. Adrian’s mom left his dad because she was in love with Mr. Lucas. She later left Mr. Lucas because he did not treat her well.
- 2. She was pleased about the divorce because she disliked Adrian’s mother.
- 3. Adrian told his mom that Doreen was caring for his dad to make her jealous, hoping she would return home.
- 4. She considered him racist because when an Indian family moved in next door, Adrian’s dad remarked it was “the beginning of the end” for the neighborhood.
- 5. She was angry with Adrian because he told Nigel he liked Barbara.
Character Spotlights and Relationships
Adrian’s Grandmother: A Complex Figure
Adrian’s grandmother was a caring and protective figure. She prepared food for him, looked after him when he was ill, and ensured Barry Kent returned Adrian’s money to pay the electricity bill. She also provided shelter for Adrian and his father when their electricity was cut off.
However, she could also be strict and insensitive. She expressed happiness about her son’s divorce and told Adrian a disturbing story about a death from tonsil surgery just before his own hospital visit.
Bert Baxter: An Unlikely Friendship
Adrian was assigned to visit Bert through a school group assisting the elderly. Initially, Adrian disliked Bert and only visited out of obligation. Over time, he grew fond of Bert, who became increasingly dependent on him, asking for help with chores and even calling Adrian’s school when he lost his false teeth.
Ultimately, they developed a close friendship. When Bert escaped the hospital, he lived with Adrian and his father. Despite his age, Bert remained spirited, later finding a girlfriend named Queenie after moving into a care home.
Adrian and Pandora: A Developing Relationship
Adrian and Pandora shared a significant relationship, engaging in many activities together. Pandora accompanied him to visit Bert Baxter, they went swimming, and performed in a play. She supported him when he was drunk and offered advice. They communicated extensively, even during her time in Tunisia, sharing their feelings, kissing, and physical affection.
However, Adrian hurt her feelings when he confessed to Nigel that he liked another girl. Despite this, by the end of the diary, Pandora, though upset, was planning to visit him.