Chapter 1

Chapter 1 Summary: Callum and Seph

In chapter 1 of Noughts and Crosses we are introduced to the main characters, Callum and Sephy who are from two different worlds, Callum is a nought (from the white community) and Sephy is a cross (from the black community) and in their world, they don’t mix. This chapter explores the theme of racism and conflict, Sephy and Callum who were best friends start to grow feelings for each other but their parents and society don’t agree. They will try anything to help each other and be together but they come across many challenges along the way which prevents them from being together and hanging out.

Within this chapter there is conflicts between both communities and in one scene a riot breaks out in Heathcroft high with is the school where Callum and Sephy go and all the crosses have a protest against the noughts and repeating the saying “no blankers in our school, no blankers in our school” during this riot we come across the theme of violence where a cross injures one of the nought girls. Sephy is a witness to this violent act and wants to stand up for the noughts but during this she calls them “blankers” which causes issues for her and Callum’s relationship.

Also in this chapter Sephy trys in show Callum that she sees no difference in noughts and crosses and what people think about them by sitting with Callum and the other noughts at lunch but she is told off by one of the teachers and makes the situation worse. This chapter results in conflict because no one is treated equally and the crosses are seen as more important and the noughts as “nothings.” This has created negative affects for the children and is unfair because its not right and they all have this outlook on life where noughts and crosses can’t simply be friends.