Haddon, Mark: *1962
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, 2003 - Chapter Summaries
- A distinctive feature of the novel is that its chapters are numbered using prime numbers because the narrator, Christopher Boone, enjoys mathematics and is fascinated by prime numbers. The chapters begin with 2 and end with 233. The novel contains 51 chapters in total.”
- Chapters 2–7
Christopher discovers his neighbour Mrs. Shears' dog, Wellington, dead with a garden fork. When he investigates, the police misunderstand him, and he is arrested after hitting an officer who touches him.
Themes
- Christopher's logical thinking; dislike of being touched; mystery introduced; autism traits; conflict with authority. - Chapters 11–23
Christopher decides to write a book about solving Wellington's murder. He explains why he likes maths, prime numbers, and facts rather than fiction.
Themes
- Narrator established; reliability; logic over emotion; prime-numbered chapters. - Chapters 29–47
Christopher begins questioning neighbours despite his father's warnings. Mrs .Alexander and other neighbours reveal information about Mrs. Shears and Christopher's family.
Themes
- Independence growing; curiosity; trust issues; community relationships. - Chapters 53–73
Christopher explains his routines, fears, and the unique way he understands the world. His father becomes angry when Christopher continues investigating.
Themes
- Autism and coping strategies; order and routine; father-son conflict. - Chapters 79–97
Christopher continues his investigation while explaining his fascination with maths and space. His father becomes increasingly frustrated with Christopher's behaviour.
Themes
- Determination; science and logic; communication difficulties. - Chapters 101–113
Christopher discovers letters hidden in his father's cupboard, revealing that his mother is alive despite having been told she had died. He also learns his father killed Wellington.
Themes
- Major plot twist; betrayal; loss of trust; truth versus lies. - Chapters 127–149
Christopher is terrified and hides from his father. He decides to leave Swindon and travel alone to London to find his mother.
Themes
- Courage; independence; overcoming fears; problem-solving. - Chapters 151–179
Christopher travels to London by himself. Despite being overwhelmed by crowds and noise, he successfully navigates the train system and finds his mother's home.
Themes
- Resilience; perseverance; sensory overload; practical intelligence. - Chapters 181–199
Christopher reunites with his mother, who is shocked to learn he believed she was dead. His father comes to London to take him home, but Christopher refuses to trust him.
Themes
- Mother-son relationship rebuilt; damaged father-son relationship; forgiveness questioned. - Chapters 211–233
Christopher returns to Swindon with his mother. He sits his A-level maths exam and gradually begins to rebuild trust with his father after receiving a puppy.
Themes
- Personal growth; hope; rebuilding relationships; confidence; future ambitions.