Dear Mr Kilmer by
Anne Schraff
The story becomes complicated CLIMAX Shows the effects of the
Problems begin climax
Conflicts are revealed The most interesting part of
[Richard hears – poem by Mr. the story. Problems and conflicts
Kilmer. – Starts corresponding – are usually resolved
become friends. Mr. Kilmer advises Indicates the turning point of
Richard not to fear ridicule deny the story. Richard writes – a poem to
who is he really is. America – war. express his sadness over the
The Schermer’s tavern – vandalised. Readers will excitedly wonder death of Mr. Kilmer. Poem is
Hannah Schermer – victimised by what will happen next printed in the ‘Turtle Lake
her classmates. Hannah / Richard – Weekly’. Poem - Pa explains all
decline the role of Lady Liberty and Richard hears – Mr. Kilmer the feelings that he had felt
Doughboy – patriotic programme. killed in battle. He is stunned when his own brother had died
Became friends – Gus enlists in the and devastated.
army. Pa is furious RESOLUTION
EXPOSITION Final outcome of the story
Introduce – Characters / setting Richard and Pa have a better relationship.
Richard / Pa / Gus Pa would read all of Richard’s poems.
Deer hunting – Richard ‘first kills’ – War over – Gus & Otto (Hannah’s brother)
misfires – he doesn’t want to - safe
DEAR MR. KILMER
JOYCE KILMER
POET SECRET SENSITIVE
HANNAH SCHERMER MRS HANSEN
GERMAN CORRESPONDING
GUS RICHARD ANGIE
AMERICA VANDALISED
SOLDIER TURTLE LAKE LOVE NATURE /
WEEKLY ANIMALS
WAR PA FRIENDSHIP
LADY LIBERTY DOUGHBOY
What do you think is the most important theme in the
novel you have read?
Give reasons for your choice with close reference to
text.
Theme: Having the courage to do what is right.
Reasons:
1. Deer hunting – Richard ‘first kills’ – misfires – he doesn’t want to
2. Richard shows his integrity by signing a card of sympathy.
3. He declines the role of the Doughboy in the periotic programme