Chapter 1 Summary

Uncle Vernon has worked hard and pulled strings to get Stella an audition with the local repertory theater. Since she was a child, Stella has shown a flare for the dramatic. Now, at sixteen years old, she is prone to exaggeration and impressive flights of fantasy. Uncle Vernon is sure that the theater will be a perfect outlet for her natural tendencies. Stella has spent extra time working with her drama coach, Mrs. Ackerley, practicing her audition piece: the telephone scene from Bill of Divorcement.

Ten days before the audition, Stella mentions that she's changed her mind, but Uncle Vernon persists, saying it's too late to back out. He ignores Stella's moodiness, knowing that this is a great opportunity for her. Uncle Vernon would like to go to the audition with Stella, but she'll have none of it. She would feel embarrassed. Uncle...