Chapter 1 Summary

The Baudelaires have just arrived at what will be their new home, Prufrock Preparatory School. The first impression of the school does not seem promising. Mr. Poe is quite enamored with the school and the idea of a prep school in general, but Violet, Klaus and Sunny aren't so sure.

They are rudely shoved aside and called cakesniffers by a little girl as they walk towards the school. The rest of the children are playing aimlessly on a burned lawn and the whole feel of the school seems wrong to the Baudelaires. The rude girl, Carmelita Spats, runs by again and the Baudelaires are confirmed in their shyness. Starting at a new school is never easy and they are worried about what they are about to face. Violet wonders if anyone will appreciate her inventions, Klaus wonders if there are any good books...