THE CURSE

SPM LITERATURE COMPONENT - NOVEL

THE CURSE

NAME OF WRITERS

NONAMESCHOOL

1ADIBAH BINTI SAIDSMK SERI BUDIMAN, KUALA TERENGGANU

2WAN HANIZAH BINTI WAN HALIMSMK BATU RAKIT, KUALA TERENGGANU

3NOORSURIATI BINTI M.A. WAHIDSMK BUKIT TUNGGAL, KUALA TERENGGANU

4ZURINA BINTI KHAIRUDDIN SMK BELARA, KUALA TERENGGANU

Mapping of Characters

Datin Sharifah and Datok Zulkifli En.Saleh (father)Wife Crazy, Pontianak-looking woman(rich, adopted parents) (angry and bitter) (Crippled and senile) (Madhuris real mother)

Azreen(daughter)Madhuri (adopted daughter)(Hard-headed, independent, smart, brave and loyal) (Beautiful, obedient, adopted, 2nd wife of Haji Ghani)

Old LadyHaji Ghani (Madhuris Husband)Fatihah Wise, traditional healer, Azreens true friendHead of village, old,1st wife, old,Ostracized by the villagers, accused as the evil witch infatuated with Madhuribitter at Madhuri

NekMohd AsrafAwang the BomohMohd Asrafgrandmother Azreens school-mate, Madhuris secret loveSuperstitious, practices weird thingsOld and sick

Puan KamsiahPuan NormalaIgnorant, believes in superstitions and traditionThe village gossiper, main cause of havoc in the village

SitiJulianKind, open-minded, caringAzreens college-mate, cares deeply about Azreen

NekMadhuris real motherAwang, the Bomoh

TIME PLOT

Day OneRubber EstateA body was discovered

LondonAzreen received news of Madhuris deathShe reluctantly went back to MalaysiaShe had nostalgic memories of her childhood during the flight

Day Two

En.Salehs HousePuan Normala and the gang were gossiping about Madhuris sudden death

GraveyardEn Saleh was furious Azreen brought her sick and senile mother while as Azreen felt the same way because En. Saleh did not wait for her to pay her last respect towards her dead sister.

Day Three

Azreen visited the Old Lady but she was not at home

Azreen saw Asraf at the village centre.She asked about Madhuris death but Asraf was reluctant to go into details

Azreen prepared breakfast for her mother who suddenly exclaimed that Madhuris life was in danger and Azreen had no sister.

En.Saleh was chopping wood when he heard odd sound. He went to investigate but found nothing.

Awang the Bomoh was terrified by the Pontianak-looking figure who dashed past him

Azreen visited the Old Lady who told her that Madhuris death was not an accident and Haji Ghani and his men covered up her death

Fatihah was bitter when her husband fell in love with Madhuri.She was determined to get her husbands love back

At home, Azreen discovered torn photographs of Madhuri but her father interrupted her.

Azreen attended to her fragile mother who was still haunted by the accident that caused her leg to be useless. Her mother told Azreen not to blame herself and be true to herself.

FlashbacksAzreen recalled the incident with the runaway bull and how she had taken blame for letting the bull out because she thought she was helping Asraf. Unfortunately, the bull caused an accident which involved her parents and her mother lost her leg as the result. She got the beating of her life from her father.

She recalled the mysterious woman lady was always following her and Madhuri around.

She also recalled Asrafs meeting Madhuri for the first time and he was immediately smitten by her and totally ignoring Azreen. She ran to the Old Lady for comfort. Unexpectedly, the Old Lady told Azreen her secret that she had killed her abusive husband in self-defense and was outcast by the villagers.

Azreen recalled how she had gone on her exchange programme and met her adopted parents who treated her like their own daughter

Day Four

Azreen met Asraf at the market place and learnt that Awang the Bomoh had been burning some odd things around the village.

Azreen got a letter from Julian and Mahuris letter was enclosed. Madhuri wrote that she was happy and had a secret to share with Azreen.

Fatihah and Haji Ghani had a heated argument.

Day Five

Azreens mother passed away.

Azreen recalled an incident where she and Madhuri tried to replace their mothers broken basket.

That night, Azreen saw a face in the window

Later, Madhuris room was on fire.

En.Saleh came and rescued Azreen and put out the fire.

Azreen fled to the Old Ladys house and spent the night.

Day Six

Fatihah went out at dawn to seek Awang the Bomoh to get a charm to win back her husband.

She stumbled with the crazy woman and fainted

The Old Lady stumbled on Fatihah who fled the scene immediately once she was conscious.

Asraf was worried because Neks cough was getting worst. He tried to get some herbal plants but the market was flooded. He went to the Old Ladys place and pleaded with her to come to the village to treat Nek. The Old Lady reluctantly went with Azreen. The Old Lady treated Nek. Unfortunately, her presence was discovered by Puan Kamsiah and Puan Normala who plotted a plan to oust her from the village.

Day Seven

Neks condition improved but the Old Lady was worried by the sudden improvement.

Azreen went home and saw Awang the Bomoh around her house. She confronted him. Awing told her about the commotion at Asrafs house caused by Puan Normala and her gang.

Azreen rushed there to save the Old Lady. She came face to face with Puan Normalas sickle. She was saved by her father and the crowd dispersed.

At night time, Siti came and told her that Nek had passed away and a mob led by Asraf was heading towards the Old Ladys house for revenge.

Azreen rushed to the Old Ladys house to defend her. During a shuffle with Asraf, Azreen was pushed and she stabbed his foot using a spade. The torch in Asrafs hand fell and rolled towards the house and a fire started. Azreen went into the house to save the Old Lady but she was trapped. Before she died, she told Azreen to learn to forgive. Azreen was saved by her father who dragged her out of the burning house.

Azreen went to confront Asraf who told her about his secret relationship with Madhuri.

Azreen was devastated and ran off to a quiet place and fall asleep.

Day Eight

Azreen visited Maduris grave.

Awang the Bomoh told her that Madhuri was adopted and the crazy woman was her real mother. He also admitted that he was the one who left the door unlatched in the bull incident. Azreen was shocked but she believed his story.

She went home and saw the mysterious lady was pointing towards the woodpile. En.Saleh appeared and Azreen told him about what she knew.

They went to the woodpile and when Azreen saw the parang with latex on it, she realized it was her father who had murdered Madhuri.

Flashback

En.Saleh recalled that fateful morning when he had caught Madhuri with another man(Asraf) in the rubber estate. Madhuri would not reveal the man to En. Saleh but she told him that they were in love and wanted to run away together. En.Saleh was so angry that he did not realize he had killed his beloved daughter and Madhuri knocked over a latex container, thus came the white blood mystery.

Azreen ran away. She knew there was nothing left for her in the village.

En.Saleh was shocked when he saw the crazy lady was coming towards him and he suffered a fatal heart attack

IMPORTANT EVENTSA. PROLOGUE1. A young Indian boy woke up late to tap rubber.2. He hurried to the tool shed to take his equipment.3. Before reaching the shed, he stumbled upon a large root and fell down.4. Standing up, he stared at the thing and was very shocked to find a dead body full of blood.5. He screamed and ran to the village to inform the villagers.

B. Chapter 11. Azreen Salleh, a Malaysian student in London was on her way to go back to Malaysia.2. She didnt want her friends to know the reason of going back to Malaysia.3. She was a bit reluctant to leave as she had examination and she had to postpone her exam.4. She wanted to avoid her friends and questions but unfortunately met Julian Ng.5. She had to explain to Julian the reason of going back.

C. Chapter 21. On the flight, Azreen s mind wandered off to her sister , Madhuri.2. She remembered how she despised/ hated her sister.3. The comparison made by people around her caused that feeling.4. Madhuri prettier, charming, filial, well-liked, polite, soft-spoken.5. Azreen shorter, bespectacled, fiery tempered, obstinate, stubborn.6. Azreen also remembered how good her sister was to her, the happier time she had and they were inseparable.

D. Chapter 31. The gossip-monger of the village spread lies about Madhuri being murdered, having white blood and all the villagers were cursed.2. Azreen reached KLIA and then took a connecting flight to Langkawi.3. Her adopted parents, Datin Sharifah and Datuk Zul were waiting for her at the airport.4. Datin Sharifah reminded her husband not to tell a word about Madhuris death to Azreen.5. They drove her to a jetty and took a ferry to Azreens village.

E. Chapter 41. Azreen arrived at her house and entered the house.2. A few women were still inside listening to the gossip monger telling gossip about her sister.3. Azreen was angry at them and without acknowledging / greeting them; Azreen pushed her bag and stormed past the living room.4. Pn Normala told the women how disrespectful Azreen was to them, how Azreen was so vengeful to the family.5. Datin Sharifah asked Azreen whether she wanted to go the burial ground.6. Azreen coaxed her adopted mother to tell her the truth about Madhuri.7. Datin Sharifah told her about what she knew.8. Azreen went to see her mother in her mothers room.9. Her mother didnt recognized her and kept on calling her Madhuri.10. Azreen pushed her mother to the graveyard.11. Her father angrily demanded her to go home and brought her mother along.12. Azreen defied her father.13. Hj Ghani stopped her father and Datin Sharifah pushed her mothers wheelchair home.14. Azreen stood still at the grave.15. On the way back, Azreen met Asraf whom she had a crush when she was 13.16. She reached home late and everyone had left the house.17. When she opened her window she saw a sudden movement and a dark shape fleeted away. The person looked like Madhuri.18. Pn Fatihah, Hj Ghanis first wife was angry as her husband was so engrossed with Madhuri.19. Pn.Fatihah took the curtain brought by Madhuri to their home and went inside a room full of Hj Ghanis possession. She took out a keris and ran the dagger through the curtain.20. She felt satisfied looking at the torn fabric.

F. Chapter 51. Azreen went into the jungle early in the morning. But the Old Lady of The Forest was not at home.2. Azreen left the house and went to the market. She bought some food.3. On the way back, she met Asraf. She asked Asraf to tell her what had happened to Madhuri.4. Asraf told her how Hj Ghani and his men had cleared the place where Madhuri was found dead.5. Azreen helped her mother to wash her face at the sink. 6. Her mother didnt want to eat nasi lemak but asked for porridge.7. Azreen cooked porridge for her mother and her mother reminded her of what had occurred when she was little.8. Her mother seemed incoherent and rambled on claiming that she must warn her sister being in danger.9. While chopping wood with his parang, En.Salleh saw movement in the shrubbery beside his house. Then, he heard someone weeping.10. Awang , the bomoh was very scared when he saw a woman with thick ,long grey hair, pale gaunt face and large creepy eyes weeping.11. Azreen visited the Old Lady of the Forest. She felt so comfortable and she laughed for the first time.12. The Old Lady advised Azreen the importance of being tact, feminine and patience.13. The Old Lady of the Forest confirmed that Madhuri was murdered.HOW AZREEN BEFRIEND WITH THE OLD LADY OF THE FOREST1. It had been a dare by the others.2. All the children in the village were told by the parents that the old woman was a witch who had killed her husband.3. One day she went to the house and knocked on the door.4. As she called out for the old woman, her friends scampered and some looked petrified.5. Azreen was sure the Old Lady was not wicked even when the Old Lady tried to scare her away.6. She kept on going to the house from that day onward until the Old Lady became friendly with her.7. Azreen would visit her twice a week and Azreen would run to the Old Ladys place when she had huge fights with her parents.8. The Old Lady quietly welcomed her presence.

G. Chapter 61. Azreen was shocked to hear about the murder.2. The Old Lady confirmed it as she saw Madhuris body lying on the ground before it was taken away.3. The Old Lady said they covered up the death to protect the innocent and guilty parties.4. The Old Lady was also assured Azreen that the truth would surface one day.5. Pn Fatihah entered Madhuris room. She remembered how Madhuri became part of her life.6. Azreen entered Madhuris room and found torn photographs.7. Her father scolded her for entering the room and grabbed her upper arm leading her out of the room.8. Azreen recalled an event which affected her life.HOW HER MOTHER LOST THE USED OF HER LEG (FLASHBACK)1. Asraf told her he needed money to buy a motorcycle and had applied for a job in the farm from Mr Mohan on the third day, Azreen paid him a visit. But the gate was opened and there was a commotion.2. Asraf got a scolding from Mr Mohan for letting the gate open and the bull escaped.3. Azreen interfered and confessed that she was the one who opened the gate.4. Everybody was surprised.5. Then there was another commotion, the bull rammed into her parentsmotorcycle. Her mother lost lots of blood and because of the incident, she lost the use of her leg.6. En Salleh went to see Mr Mohan and Mr Mohan told him that Azreen had admitted of letting the gate open and the bull escape.7. She was caned at the back and leg. But she was loyal to her friend and did not tell a soul.HOW THE OLD LADY KILLED HER HUSBAND (FLASHBACK)1. The Old Lady was a young woman from the mainland and married a young man from the village.2. They were happy at first. She adapted her life and joined the villagers at any occasion which needed her help. She was a good cook and she also knew how to prepare herbal concoctions to treat many illnesses.3. Then her husband lost his job and he was stressed out. He started to hit her.4. He became an alcoholic and abusive. But she kept it all to herself.5. She endured all the abuse. But one day, while she was cooking, her husband kneed her in the stomach and kicked her when she went down. At that time she was holding a knife but the knife fell down to the floor.6. He forced himself on her and she took the fallen knife and stabbed him.7. Her husband died. The villagers found her and the dead body.8. The police let her away after taking her statement and she was called all kinds of names such as a mad woman, a husband killer and so on. The villagers started to avoid her.9. She had no money and had to leave her house. So she went into the jungle and found a deserted house. She took refuge in it and made it her home.HOW SHE WENT TO STUDY IN LONDON (FLASHBACK)1. Azreen was an intelligent girl in school.2. She was selected to join an exchange student programme in Penang. Her teacher had arranged everything including her foster parents.3. Her parents did not make a fuss at all about the programme.4. The two months programme was good for her.5. At the end of the programme, her foster parents sent her back to her village and brought a wheelchair to make her mothers movement easier.6. Her father did not like what the foster parents did. 7. Azreen told her father to be more open-minded and that her foster parents were kind and generous.8. A year later, she received a scholarship to further her studies in London.9. Her foster parents also helped with her allowance.

H. Chapter 71. Mohd Asrafs grandmother was coughing badly. She also had a fever. 2. Asraf went out to buy lunch before leaving for school.3. Hj Ghani went to visit his wifes grave .he recalled how he heard the news and how he reacted after seeing the lifeless body.4. Hj Ghani saw movement at the grave and saw a woman looking like Madhuri.5. Meanwhile at Azreens house, her father accused her of not latching the chicken coop.6. She denied it was her fault and her father demanded her to clean it up.7. She found a dead carcass of a chicken. After she turned back for a while, the carcass was gone.8. Asraf met Azreen at the market and told her about what the bomoh was doing.9. She received a letter from Julian Ng and he enclosed Madhuris letter to her.10. Her sister mentioned about her being happy and she had one happy secret to tell Azreen. 11. Pn Normala told her about her superstitious belief such as the rain, her meetings with a woman roaming at the graveyard and the loud argument between Hj Ghani and Pn Fatihah. The argument was about Fatihah stealing and disposing of Madhuris things .12. Mohd Asraf fought with Hj Ghani as Hj Ghani insulted all women in general including his wives.13. The meeting between Azreen and Asraf made her realized how she dislikes him for playing with her emotion. Because of that she crushed her sisters letter down the lane.14. When she wanted to retrieve the letter, she couldnt find it anywhere.

I. Chapter 81. The village experienced heavy rain for four days.2. Azreens mother died on the fifth day.3. They buried her next to Madhuri.4. That night, Azreen entered her sisters bedroom and recalling a good memory of her mother and sister.5. She mourned their death. It was the first time she cried unreservedly.6. When she wanted to close the window, she saw movement outside and went to investigate.7. She couldnt find anything.8. She smelt smoke from Madhuris room. The wall was on fire.9. She tried to put out the fire but backed out from the room as the smoke burnt her throat and lungs.10. Her father appeared from behind and pushed her outside. He threw soil upon the fire tirelessly to put the fire out.11. The storm helped them to put out the fire.12. Her father collapsed on the ground when it was over.13. Pn Fatihah went to see the bomoh discreetly early one morning. This is to get a charm to attract the husband attention back to her.14. On her way, she saw a silhouette looking like Madhuri. Pn Fatihah fainted.15. Asrafs grandmothers condition was getting worse. 16. En Salleh went to Awangs house and demanded him to explain his actions.17. The Old Lady of The Forest met Pn Fatihah on her way to find the ulam and herbal plants.18. Azreen went to the Old Ladys house for comfort. She slept there until dusk.19. She ate there and wanted to sleep at the Old Ladys that night.20. Someone suggested to Asraf to go to the Old Ladys place for vegetables/herbal remedies as she lived on higher ground that are not affected by flood.21. The Old Lady advised Azreen to forgive those who wronged her as she did. By doing that she would feel better and would feel contented with life.22. Asraf went to the Old Ladys place and urged the Old Lady to help him.23. Azreen coaxed the Old Lady to go and see Neks condition on her own.24. The Old Lady was a bit reluctant to go until Asraf vouched for her safety.

J. Chapter 91. Azreen accompanied the Old Lady to Asrafs house.2. The Old Lady checked Neks condition and gave instructions on what to prepare while she went back to her house to collect barks, roots and herbs necessary for the treatment.3. The villagers didnt like this . Pn Normala especially started the gossip about the curse that they would get if they let the Old Lady around.4. The Old Lady prepared her remedies for Nek. Nek regained consciousness and felt much better.5. Pn Fatihah prepared breakfast for Hj Ghani but he refused to eat them.6. Neks condition improved. Yet the Old Lady was not satisfied.7. After she went back to take the eggs at home, she saw Awang. Awang told her about the crowd of villagers going to Asrafs house.8. She had an argument with Pn Normala.9. Someone pushed her from the back and she fell down. All the eggs she gathered were shattered.10. Her father came to the rescue.11. Pn Normala wanted him to deal with his daughter and warned Azreen that if the Old Lady didnt leave the village, there would be a death among them.12. Asraf told her that Nek had recovered. The Old Lady went back to her place and left Azreen with Asraf.

K. Chapter 101. Azreen stayed there until dusk.2. She went back to her house, cooked dinner , prayed and then ate dinner with her father quietly.3. When she was about to sleep , a loud knock surprised her. 4. Siti told her about Neks death and Asraf went to the Old Ladys house with a group of men feeling angry towards the Old Lady. 5. Azreen grabbed her slippers and ran as fast as she could to the Old Ladys.6. Seven men and Asraf were there . Asraf with a torch and hoe in hand tried to batter the house down.7. She tried to stop Asraf but he pushed her down. Taking the spade she stabbed his feet. As he fell down, the torch dropped and rolled towards the house.8. The house was on fire.9. The fire spread very fast. She rushed into the house and tried to find the Old Lady. The Old Lady was stuck as the pillar fell down on her. She told Azreen to save herself and asked Azreen to forgive the people who wronged her.10. Her father came to the rescue again and carried her out of the burning house.11. She was so angry at Asraf and attacked him like a wild cat.12. Asraf told her about his sadness towards the death of 2 persons he loved the most. He told her about his affair with Madhuri and they were going to run away to KL.13. Azreen ran away in disbelief to the secluded place the Old Lady showed her.14. Then she forgave everyone.15. On her way back, she met Awang. Awang told her about Madhuris real mother and the illicit affair. Awang also told her that it was he who let the gate wide open. He also told her that Hj Ghani knew about the affair.

L. Chapter 111. Azreen was shocked to hear what the bomoh told her. 2. She saw the woman near the wood pile. She was trying to show Azreen something.3. She told her father about the woman.4. She asked her father to tell the truth about Madhuri.5. Her father bent down behind the wood pile and theres parang in his hand.6. The parang had something sticky and white on it. 7. She knew her father was the one who killed Madhuri.8. Her father had an encounter with her sister in the rubber estate and she was hugging another man, not her husband.9. In rage, he stabbed Madhuri for committing adultery and for bringing shame to him.10. Azreen left her father.11. She didnt realize the woman standing behind the coconut tree.12. The woman took the parang trying to kill him.13. He was shocked and had a heart attack.14. En Salleh died.

M. Chapter 121. Azreen visited her familys grave before she left.2. Before she left, she saw the woman smiling to her. 3. Her foster parents waited for her and sent her to the airport.

N. Epilogue1. Julian Ng waited for her in London. He wanted to give his support to Azreen.2. Asraf took a teaching course in KL and left Langkawi.3. She felt gratified to Julian.

1. QUESTIONS ON EVENTS1. Using details from the novel you have studied,1. State an event which you feel should not have happened1. Explain why you think the event should not have happened1. Support your answer with close reference to the text

How to answerPARAGRAPHCONTENTITEM MUST HAVE

1I choose The Curse by Lee Su Ann. The event that I feel should not have happened is Madhuris marriage to Haji Ghani.1. Novel1. Event should not have happened

2Madhuri was in love with Asraf and the feeling was mutual. They would not have met in secret in the rubber estate if she was not a married woman. This could have prevented her from being killed.1. Reason 11. Evidence

3I also think that the marriage had caused the relationship between Pn Fatihah, the first wife, and Hj Ghani turned sour as soon as Madhuri became the second wife. Pn Fatihah felt that Hj Ghani gave more attention to Madhuri as she was younger and more attractive. They had their first big argument. The argument was about Puan Fatihah stealing and disposing of Madhuris things. This would not have happened if Madhuri did not marry Haji Ghani.1. Reason 21. Evidence

4Puan Fatihah had also turned into a bitter and vindictive woman after her husband married Madhuri. She took the curtain brought by Madhuri to their home and went inside a room full of Hj Ghanis possession. She took out a keris and ran the dagger through the curtain. She felt satisfied looking at the torn fabric. She used to be a very nice and gentle person. 1. Reason 31. Evidence

5In conclusion, I feel that Madhuris marriage to Haji Ghani had broken 3 hearts, Madhuris, Mohd Asrafs and Puan Fatihahs. This would not have happened if Madhuri did not marry Haji Ghani.Conclusion

1. Using details from the novel you have studied, Describe what happens at the end of the novel ( students can choose either epilogue or chapter 12 as the end of the novel) Explain why you find the ending either happy or sad Support your answer with close reference to the textHOW TO ANSWERPARAGRAPHCONTENTITEM TO HAVE

1I choose The Curse by Lee Su Ann.

At the end of the story, Azreen lost everyone that she loved so for me this novel ended sadly. NOVEL OF YOUR CHOICE DESCRIBING WHAT HAPPENS AT THE END OF THE NOVEL HAPPY OR SAD FOR YOU

2First, she lost her beautiful sister, Madhuri who was found dead in the rubber estate. She immediately came back to her village from London but she was denied the final goodbye when her father, En. Saleh did not wait for her and buried her sister. REASON 1 EVIDENCE

3Next, she lost her beloved mother who died five days after Madhuri. Her mother was already sick and her mental state was affected where she sometimes got confused of the past events. It is also very sad that she did not know that Azreen was not responsible for the accident that paralysed her. REASON 2 EVIDENCE

4Azreen lost her mentor, the Old Lady in the fire which almost cost her life if En. Saleh was not there to pull her out from the burning house. It was an accident caused by malicious series of gossips and discrimination by the villagers led by Puan Normala. The Old Lady was like her mother and and her best friend. REASON 3 EVIDENCE

5She also lost her father who succumbed to a massive heart attack after he was surprised by the crazy woman who came to him with his parang.

REASON 3 EVIDENCE

6In conclusion, she lost everyone that she loved and had no reason to come back to her village. That is why it is a sad ending to me.

CONCLUSION

QUESTION 3Based on the novel you have learned, Write about an important incident that you remember ( example : How Azreen first met the Old Lady of the Forest) Give reasons why you remember the incident

I choose The Curse by Lee Su Ann. In my opinion, an important incident from the novel is when Azreen first met the Old Lady.

Azreen first met the Old Lady when she was challenged by her friends to go to the Old Ladys house. The villagers believed that the Old Lady is an evil witch, so they forbade their children to go to the Old Ladys house. However, Azreens curiosity and bravery led her to the Old Ladys house. As she called out for the Old Lady, her friends scampered and some even looked very scared. When she met the Old Lady and the Old Lady asked her to go away, she did not think the Old Lady was evil. After that day, Azreen kept going to the house until the Old Lady became friendly with her.

In my opinion, this incident is important because after the day they became friends, the Old Lady became the person Azreen talked to or turned to whenever she had problems. For instance, Azreen would go to her house whenever she got into fights with her father. The Old Lady would listen to her problems and calm her.

Apart from that, this incident is important because from the Old Lady, Azreen had learnt to forgive the people who had done her wrong. For instance, Azreen had forgiven her father for murdering her sister, Madhuri after understanding the reason of her fathers action. If Azreen had not met and befriended the Old Lady, she might not have forgiven the people who had done her wrong. As a result, she might not go back to London feeling free and feeling like a new person.

In conclusion, the important incident is when Azreen first met the Old Lady because of the above reasons.

QUESTION 4Based on the novel you have learned, Which event is the most interesting event for you Give reasons for your answer(Students can use the same answer as in question 3; just change the phrase from important incident to the most interesting event.I choose The Curse by Lee Su Ann. In my opinion, the most interesting event from the novel is when Azreen first met the Old Lady.

Azreen first met the Old Lady when she was challenged by her friends to go to the Old Ladys house. The villagers believed that the Old Lady is an evil witch, so they forbade their children to go to the Old Ladys house. However, Azreens curiosity and bravery led her to the Old Ladys house. As she called out for the Old Lady, her friends scampered and some even looked very scared. When she met the Old Lady and the Old Lady asked her to go away, she did not think the Old Lady was evil. After that day, Azreen kept going to the house until the Old Lady became friendly with her.

In my opinion, this event is most interesting because after the day they became friends, the Old Lady became the person Azreen talked to or turned to whenever she had problems. For instance, Azreen would go to her house whenever she got into fights with her father. The Old Lady would listen to her problems and calm her.

Apart from that, this event is the most interesting because from the Old Lady, Azreen had learnt to forgive the people who had done her wrong. For instance, Azreen had forgiven her father for murdering her sister, Madhuri after understanding the reason of her fathers action. If Azreen had not met and befriended the Old Lady, she might not have forgiven the people who had done her wrong. As a result, she might not go back to London feeling free and feeling like a new person.

In conclusion, the most interesting event is when Azreen first met the Old Lady because of the above reasons.

QUESTION 5Based on the novel you have learned, Which event has affected the main character How is the main character affected by the event mentioned Support your answer with evidence from the text

Students can use the same answer as in question 3; just change the phrase from important incident to the event that has affected the main character.

I choose The Curse by Lee Su Ann. In my opinion, the event that has affected the main character from the novel is when Azreen first met the Old Lady.

Azreen first met the Old Lady when she was challenged by her friends to go to the Old Ladys house. The villagers believed that the Old Lady is an evil witch, so they forbade their children to go to the Old Ladys house. However, Azreens curiosity and bravery led her to the Old Ladys house. As she called out for the Old Lady, her friends scampered and some even looked very scared. When she met the Old Lady and the Old Lady asked her to go away, she did not think the Old Lady was evil. After that day, Azreen kept going to the house until the Old Lady became friendly with her.

In my opinion, this event has affected the main character because after the day they became friends, the Old Lady became the person Azreen talked to or turned to whenever she had problems. For instance, Azreen would go to her house whenever she got into fights with her father. The Old Lady would listen to her problems and calm her.

Apart from that, this event has affected the main character because from the Old Lady, Azreen had learnt to forgive the people who had done her wrong. For instance, Azreen had forgiven her father for murdering her sister, Madhuri after understanding the reason of her fathers action. If Azreen had not met and befriended the Old Lady, she might not have forgiven the people who had done her wrong. As a result, she might not go back to London feeling free and feeling like a new person.

In conclusion, the event that has affected the main character is when Azreen first met the Old Lady because of the above reasons. CHARACTERSNOCHARACTERCHARACTERISTICEVIDENCE

1AZREEN SALEH20-year-old intelligent student Short and bookishTomboyIndependentHighly opinionated and outspokenCourageousSensitive

Kind and value love and friendship

Perceptive and rational

Brave/fearless

Is chosen for student exchange programmeObtains scholarship to study in a university in LondonExcels in both academic and sportsPlays hockey with the boys in schoolAt young age she stays in Penang for two months during student exchange programmeNever afraid to speak her mind, voices her opinion, stand up for herself and her loved onesConfronts her father regarding Madhuris deathHates it when people compare her to Madhuri Cries her heart out over the sense of loss of her sister and motherBefriended the Old Lady although others label her as a witch and a murdererWilling to sacrifice her own life to save the Old Lady during the fireWilling to take the blame for the escaped bull to save Asrafs job Able to deduce that the white blood on Madhuris body is actually latex Do not believe the superstitious about the village being cursed, the pontianak, the ritual, the witch and rumours. Faces the punishment/beating from her father calmly although she is not guiltyStabs Asraf in the foot with a spade to stop him from breaking the Old Ladys house and confronts him and demands an explanation for his actions.Tries to stop the angry villagers from hurting the Old Lady when she comes to the village to treat Asrafs grandmother.

2SALEH ABDULLAHAzreens father A hardworking farmerPhysically strong with big fistsHot-tempered, full of rageStrict and traditional fatherJudgmentalHas hidden love and courageous

Judgemental, biased and unfairWorks in the farmDoes chores such as chopping wood and mending fences and roofs

Azreen is blamed and beaten severely for her parents accident with the bullLoses control and ends up killing her daughter Madhuri after seeing her with another manCaned Azreen when she was a childScolds her for stealing mangoesteensUsed to eat his meals alone and in silenceSaves Azreens life during the fire in Madhuris roomSaves Azreens life during the fire in the Old Ladys houseSaves Azreen from the angry crowd when the Old Lady comes to the village to treat Asrafs grandmother Shows preference towards Madhuri, his adopted child and resentment towards own daughterMisjudges Azreen and punishes her severely such as in the bull incidentWrongly accuses her for doing something she has not done such as forgetting to latch the chicken coop

3MOHD ASRAFA handsome teacherLoving and responsible

CowardEmotional/irrational

Sly and underhandedAdmired by girls including Azreen during his school daysTakes trouble to care for his grandmotherTakes leave from work when Nek is sickPlans to pursue a teaching course in KL so that Nek can get better medical treatmentFinds the courage to see the Old Lady and asks for herbal medicine to cure his NekPersuades the Old Lady to come to the village to help his Nek when her condition gets worse.Lets Azreen takes the blame for the bull incident that causes her mother to lose her leg.Lets his feelings overcome his sound judgmentLeads the angry mob to the Old Ladys house after Nek dies and accidentally burns the Old Ladys house and kills her.Fools around with Azreens feelings as a mean to cover up his personal feeling for Madhuri.

4MADHURIAzreens adopted/dead sister

Young, pretty, charming and graceful

Good and obedient daughter

Kind and self-sacrificing

NaiveWas found abandoned as a baby and brought up by Azreens parents as their own daughterWas found dead/murdered in the rubber estate by the Indian rubber tapper. Appeared in many school concerts and photosWas invited to recite poetry (syair) at wedding ceremonyAsraf was attracted to Madhuri the first time he saw her when he came over with a basket of fruits to offer his sympathies to her family after the bull incident.Haji Ghani fell in love with Madhuri the first time he listened to her melodious voice reciting syair at wedding reception.Helped her parents with the house choresTook care of her ailing mother such as preparing her favaourite porridge and fed her Listened to her father and agreed to be the headmans second wife although she loved Asraf.Used to protect Azreen when she was scolded or beaten by their fatherHelped Azreen to find rattan in the forest and wove a new basket to replace their mothers favourite basket when Azreen ruined it after carrying heavy durian Consoled and soothed Azreen when she felt guilty for causing her mothers accident She thought she would be able to persuade Haji Ghani to release her and allow her to marry Mohd Asraf.Looked up to her husbands first wife and was unaware of Fatihahs resentment and jelousy towards her.

5THE OLD LADYLonely and isolated

Wise , rational and strong

Friendly, caring and motherlyPhysically, mentally and verbally abused by her alcoholic husband. As a result, she finally kills him in self-defence.Lives in the forest alone away from the villagersVillagers label her as an evil witch after she kills her abusive husband Villagers forbid their children to go near her in the forestSkilled in traditional herbal medicine.Treats Asrafs grandmother with herbs, tree roots and bark from the forest and her garden.A good counsellor as she is able to give good advice and to talk with Azreen about her personal development and educational achievements.Teaches Azreen the importance of forgiveness.Able to reveal the important information regarding the people involved in Madhuris murder.Confirms that Madhuri was indeed murdered.Able to live independently and self-sufficient without the help of anyoneProvides friendship and comfort for Azreen.Azreen turns to when she has disagreement with her parents.Used to plait Azreens hairWilling to take risk and come to the village to treat Asrafs grandmother knowing the villagers would resent her there.

MODEL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS CHARACTER

1. Write on a character that shows responsibility in her or his actions . Support your answer with evidence from the novel.

Based on the Novel The Curse by Lee Sue Ann, a character that shows responsibility is Mohd Asraf as he is being shown as a filial grandson and cares about her grandmother.

Firstly, he takes care of Nek, especially when she is sick. Mohd Asraf is concerned about his grandmothers deteriorating health. He is willing to take leave from work as to take care of his grandmother. In addition, Mohd Asrafs effort to look for the cure for his grandmother further exemplifies that he is indeed a responsible person.

Secondly, Mohd Asraf wants to take Nek to the mainland which she will get better medical care and when offeredwith a teaching course in Kuala Lumpur, he plans to take Nek with him as he will get better medical care than staying in Langkawi.

Thirdly, he gathers his strength and courage to face the Old Lady in his effort to cure his grandmother. Not only he asks her to provide the herbal medicine, but he also persuades her to come to the village and treat his Nek.

In conclusion, based on the evidences given above I would say Mohd Asraf is truly a responsible person. He is willing to do anything for her grandmother.

2. Write on a character that is exemplary. Support your answer with evidence from the novel.

In the Curse by Lee Sue Ann, the character whom I think is exemplary is the Old Lady of the forest. Throughout the novel, she shows strength of character and wisdom.

When she first moves to the village as a newlywed, she is popular among the villagers and she enjoys a blissful marital life with her husband. Everything changes as her husband who becomes an alcoholic and starts to abuse her and finally she retaliates and kills him in self defence. From then on, the villagers treat her like an outcast. She is forced to move out of the village and makes an abandoned house her home. She gathers her strength and starts a new life. She even grows her own vegetables and becomes self-sufficient. She lives alone for years until she befriends Azreen and becomes her mentor and consoles her whenever she has a fight with her parents.

When Asraf approaches the Old Lady for help, she is hesitant about going back to the village. Yet she agrees and doing so, she puts her life at risk. When she is trapped in the burning house, she tells Azreen to save herself and she perishes in the fire. Even at deaths door, she reminds Azreen about the importance of forgiveness and tells her to heed all the advice she has given her.

The Old Lady is therefore an exemplary character as she is strong, wise and honourable.

3. Who is your favourite character? Give reasons to support your answer.

The character that I admire most is of course, the pretty and charming Madhuri from the The CurseMadhuri is Azreens elder sister and she is about 24 years old. Madhuri is liked by everyone in the village and also by her parents because she was very filial and obedient. As a good and obedient daughter, she helped her parents in household chores. Madhuri used to cook chicken porridge for her mother and feed her. Besides, she had never gone against her fathers wish when she married the man that her father chose for her. She was married to Haji Ghani who was the village headman and hetook her as his second wife. Even though she knew that Haji Ghani was married but justto obey her fathers wishes, she was ready to be the headmans second wife. The sense of obedience in Madhuris character really attracted me and I learnt to love my parents more after reading this novel.

The second reason why I admire Madhuri is because she was very pretty and charming. She was introduced to the readers when Azreen recalled about her sisters beauty during her journey back to Malaysia from London. Madhuri was featured in many photos and in school concerts when she took the role of the beautiful Puteri Gunung Ledang. Madhuri was very graceful and elegant in her costume during the concert. Azreen herself admired her sisters beauty when she took part in the concert. All these prove Madhuri as a very beautiful and elegant daughter and I too admire her for that.

The third and final reason why I admire Madhuris character is because she was a kind and thoughtful person. She was very kind to Fatihah, Haji Ghanis first wife when she wrote about her to Azreen. She even praised Fatihah and took her as Kak because she looked up to her as an elder sister. Each time when her father, Encik Saleh scolded or caned Azreen, Madhuri took it in a positive way that is, her father trying to educate her younger sister. As a kind hearted sister, she was always there for Azreen to console and comfort her after being scolded or caned by their father. When Azreen ruined her mothers favaourite basket carrying durian, Madhuri, being a kind and thoughtful sister helped her to find some rattan in the forest and wove the basket together the whole night to replace the ruined one. I feel that Madhuri is not only kind but always thinks positive in each and every incident that happens around her. This is what inspires me to think positively in my life in order to achieve success.

Mentioned above are all the character traits why I admire Madhuri, the most beautiful lady in this novel. I wish I could be as graceful as she isand an obedient daughter to my parents.

4. Choose a character that portrayed good or positive traits. Give reasons to support your answer.

In the novel The Curse, the main character is Azreen. She has a father and his name is Encik Saleh. Encik Saleh has portrayed positive traits throughout the novel.Firstly, Encik Saleh is a loving father.He found Madhuri abandoned by her crazy mother in the paddy field. He took her home and raised her like his own daughter. He never told her that she was adopted. Next, he was a protective father. Even though he seemed cold and unloving but his actions showed that he loved Azreen. When Madhuris room was on fire, it was En. Saleh who pushed Azreen out of the room and thus saved her life. He then put out the fire using wet earth. Furthermore, he came to Azreens rescue when Azreen was confronted with Puan Normalas sickle in a scuffle in front of Mohd Asrafs house. Moreover, En Saleh rescued Azreen from being burnt to death when Azreen tried to help the Old Lady who was trapped in her burning house. All these showed that he truly cared for his daughters safety.Finally, En Saleh was a loving husband. Datin Sharifah and Datok Zulkifli gave a wheelchair to his wife to make it easier for her to move around. En. Saleh showed his displeasure at the gift but the following day he built a ramp from the veranda so that she could get in and out of the house easily.

THEME1. LOVENO.RELATIONSHIPBETWEENPAGETEXTUAL EVIDENCE

1. Love between siblingsAzreen and Madhuri8-9, 25, 81Azreen and Madhuri love and care for each other especially when they were younger. Madhuri was always protective of Azreen against the punishment meted out by their father.

2. Parental loveMadhuris mother228Madhuris mother loves Madhuri despite having abandoned her. It is the love that makes her wants to kill Salleh.

Azreen and her father25?, 82-83, 86, 95Azreens father love her but her father tends to be strict with her. She is often punished by him. He wants her to behave herself. This shows he cares enough to discipline her

201Azreen was saved by Saleh from danger. He saved her just in time before the Old Ladys house collapsed on her during the fire.

189Saleh rescued Azreen from Puan Normala and her mob whom she has confronted.

Saleh and Madhuri209, 221, 224Saleh loves Madhuri like his own daughter although she is adopted. He regrets killing her in a moment of blind anger.

Azreen and her mother 8749She takes care of her mother by cooking her breakfast.

29-32She was concerned when her father does not inform her mother of her sisters death.

3. Childrens loveAzreen and Salleh Despite always being angry at and canned, Azreen still loves her father. She forgives him for killing her sister.

4. Love between husband and wifeSaleh and his wife142Saleh takes good care of his wife although she is paralyzed and has Alzheimer. She dies peacefully.

Haji Ghani and Madhuri42Haji Ghani loves Madhuri and dotes her. He is very generous by buying her jewels and beautiful expensive clothes

32, 42, 118He is heartbroken when she dies and he really misses her.

Fatihah and Haji Ghani147-148Pn Fatihah loves her husband. She resorts to consulting a bomoh for charms to win back her husbands affection.

179She takes the trouble to prepare his favourite dish for him.

43-44She is very jealous of Madhuri whom he adores and to keep peace in the house, she pretends to be kind to his second wife.

5. Scandalous loveMohd Asraf and Madhuri203-205, 215Their love will not be accepted by the society if they have been caught together. It is adultery because Madhuri is a married woman. No matter how true the love is, one must live and love within the laws that govern a society.

1. GOSSIPNO.RELATIONSHIPEXPLANATIONSPAGETEXTUAL EVIDENCE

1. Among adultsThe village is a small community and the people who gather together for occasions like kenduris like to gossip. They are simple folks who are easily deceived into believing anything.63-65All the stories around the Old Lady whom they call the witch are to incredible to be true, but the villagers believe in them. The villagers think she is a cannibal who eats children for dinner after turning them into squirrel or rats.

13-14/ 18-21/ 52Puan Normala loves to gossip. She told the women-folk that Madhuri is murdered and she has shed white blood not long after Madhuri dies.

2. Among childrenAt school57-61Noor, the daughter of Puan Normala is as bad as a gossiper as her mother. She enjoys telling juicy gossips in school, even scandalous ones like hinting that her teacher, Mohd Asraf, has only eyes for Madhuri, a married woman.

3. SUPERSTITIONS & SUPERNATURALNO.WHO?PAGETEXTUAL EVIDENCE

1. Madhuris death23, 132The villagers believed that they are cursed as Madhuri has shed white blood when she dies. This is because they believe in the curse she put has made Langkawi remained undeveloped for a long time. They blame the curse for all the problems they face.

75The fact that Madhuri dies at a very young age and the way she dies leaves an indelible impression in the villagers minds that it was the work of evil

2. The appearance of the ghostly figure40, 53, 75. 97, 118-119, 145The appearance of a pale gaunt face lay with long think hair and large creepy red eyes wandering around the cemetery, rubber plantation and forest has led to the speculation that she is a pontianak. The bomoh is relieved that she has not attacked him and sucked his blood.

3. The Old Lady62-63The villagers believed that the OL has supernatural powers as she can make powerful concoctions. There are stories of her turning children into squirrels and rats and eating them.

103, 171She is barred from entering the village since she kills her abusive husband many years ago. They believe that if they let her enter the village, more disasters, evil and curses would befall them.

185-189Neks death has sparked the fire in Puan Normalas heart to start the cause of teaching the OL a lesson. She spearheads the angry mob that led Mohd Asraf and his men to the OLs house in the forest.

171The villagers blamed her for the floods and continuous rain and they are suspicious that whoever she has contact with will be cursed.

4. Certain beliefs123-124Leaving a chicken with its neck broken outside someones house will bring bad luck to the family.

216Haji Ghanis keris is reputed to be able to fly at night and seek out its owners enemies.

54The villages still seek the bomoh when they need help in warding off disasters such as floods, fires, saving a marriage and using charms and amulets to win back husbands who have gone astray.

MORAL VALUESMORAL VALUESPAGESTEXTUAL EVIDENCE

Children should love and care for their parents27Azreens attitude towards her foster parents, Datin Sharifah and Datuk Zulkifli. There was an exchange programme in school and Azreen, being a top student, was chosen to go. Azreen got along well with her foster parents, so well that their relationship continued even after the two-month programme ended. Datin Sharifah and Datuk Zulkifli would visit Azreen and her family in Langkawi often. Two years back, they even sponsored her studies overseas. In fact, they treated Azreen very much like their own daughter.

50Azreen always help her mother to prepare a bowl of porridge for her breakfast and takes care of her needs after she got involved in an accident that caused her to be paralysed.

117Asraf has a responsibility towards his grandmother. She is an old woman. He always checked on her health. He buys lunch for her. He also went to look for medicine that would help to ease his grandmothers pain. When he found out that the market was filled with flood, a man told him to go and see the Old Lady as she knows a lot about herbs and how they can cure diseases. So, he went to see the Old Lady by the village and begged her to go into the village to treat his grandmother. He was willing to go against what the villagers believed in by bringing the Old Lady into the village.

Be responsible for your actions211Awang confessed to Azreen about being responsible for leaving the gate unlatched. He was stealing some chickens from the farm and he said that he was in a hurry that he had left the gate wide open. He did not know that the bull was going to walk out through the gate on its own. He was thankful that Azreen confessed to something that he did. This incident also resulted to the fact that Azreens father and mother hit the bull and her mother was paralysed. Because of that, she got a beating of a lifetime from her father, En Salleh.

203Mohd Asraf and his dark secret. He was in love with Madhuri, who is Haji Ghanis second wife and was planning to run away from the village with Madhuri as he was offered a teaching course in kl. When he told Madhuri about his plan, from her reaction, he knew trhat she loved him too. He said that her love was pure and innocent. Madhuri was to confess everything to her husband and sked his permission to release her. She was convinced that he was a reasonable man and wanted the best for her. However, after leaving Madhuri at the plantation, a few hours late, he heard the news that she was dead.

222En Salleh took the responsibility of his action of killing his adopted daughter, Madhuri by confessing about it to Azreen, indirectly. When En Salleh viciously flung the parang on the ground near Azreens feet, Azreen saw a stain of something white and sticky. Like a tree sap. She then remembered when she first arrived from London, Puan ormala was gossiping how Madhuri had white blood. She figured out that it was not blood, but white sap from the tree that stained the clothes when Madhuri must have knocked the cup over.

Learn to forgive201The Old Ladys advice to Azreen. After his grandmother died, Asraf went to the Old Ladys house to take revenge. He was followed by the villagers who were also angry towards the Old Ladys house. Asraf tried to whack the door and he pushed Azreen away. Azreen found a spade next to her, grabbed it and stabbed at his foot. He dropped the hoe and the torch fell and rolled towards the wall of the house. The fire caught at the wooden wall and with a sudden spark, it rose hungrily like an unstoppable giant. Azreen crashed into the house. She called out, but there was no response. Then she saw the Old Lady was lying beside her stove and she ran towards her. She tried to help the Old Lady up and get out from the house, but the Old Ladys led was stuck. The Old Lady told her to leave her and save herself but Azreen refused. Then, she told her to learn to forgive before its too late.

205Azreens feelings after she learns the truth about everything. After she found out what happened between her sister and Asraf, she ran away. Finally, she found herself looking down from the tall cliff that plunged straight to the sea. Her bones trembled and her breath caught at her throat. Gasping, she crumpled to her feet. She curled up her body on top of the rock. She shut her eyes and wished herself away from the island. She did not awaken until she felt the warmth of the rising sun from behind the hills across the straits. The warmth touched the tips of her fingers and spread slowly to her chest. The frozen anger within her melted slowly. She was reminded by the Old Ladys advice before she died.

232Azreen returned back to London and it showed that she had already forgiven everyone for doing the wrong things they had done.

1. QUESTIONS ON THEMES/MORAL VALUES/ MESSAGESThe following are the novels studied in the literature component in English language. Catch Us If You Can Catherine MacphailThe Curse Lee Su AnnStep by Wicked Step Anne FineChoose any one of the novels that you have studied and answer the question below. Love is important in a family.How is this shown in the novel that you have read? Support your answer with close reference to the text.

1. Using details from the novel you have studied,1. State the theme 1. State the event which shows the theme stated 1. Support your answer with close reference to the textHow to answer???PARAGRAPHCONTENTITEMS YOU MUST HAVE

1In order to answer the above question, I would like to choose The Curse by Lee Su Ann. Love is important in a family. Novel The theme discussed

2This was shown very clearly in the commitment and responsibility shown by Azreens parents to their daughters, Azreen and Madhuri. Event 1

They took care of those two with good care. For instance, although Madhuri was adopted, but Encik Salleh and his wife loved Madhuri as much as they loved Azreen. They took her from the rice field and raised her up like their own daughter. They also made sure that Madhuri married a good man like Haji Ghani. This is due to the fact that Encik Salleh and his wife wanted Madhuri to be happy and lead a good life. Evidence from the text (elaboration)

3Apart from that, Encik Salleh also showed parental love towards Azreen. Event 2

This can be seen when he saved Azreen from danger three times. One of the times was when a mob rushed towards the Old Ladys house after Asrafs grandmother died. During the riot, Asraf accidentally dropped the torch he was holding and as a result, the Old Ladys house was on fire. When Azreen entered the house to help the Old Lady, the Old Ladys leg was stuck and she would not be able to help the Old Lady. Encik Salleh grabbed Azreen out and saved her just in time before the Old Ladys house collapsed on her during the fire. Evidence from the text (elaboration)

4Finally, love in a family is also shown by the relationship between Azreen and her sister, Madhuri. Event 3

They were very close with each other when they were small. They always went out walking or cycling together around the village. They were inseparable. Azreen would sit on the carrier at the back of the bicycle as Madhuri cycled to the market or post office to do some chores for their busy parents. They would also cycle past the paddy field. Moreover, Madhuri always protected Azreen whenever she was in trouble. For instance, when their father and mother was mad at Azreen for stealing mangosteens, she ensured that Azreen ate for dinner Evidence from the text (elaboration)

5In conclusion. The events above proved that this novel showed that love is important in a family. Conclusion

The following are the novels studied in the literature component in English language. Catch Us If You Can Catherine MacphailThe Curse Lee Su AnnStep by Wicked Step Anne FineChoose any one of the novels that you have studied and answer the question below. We should love our family members.How is this moral value shown in the novel that you have read? Support your answer with close reference to the text.

How to answer??? (Students can change the answers in the first question to answer this question: just change love in a family to we should love our family members)PARAGRAPHCONTENTITEMS YOU MUST HAVE

1In order to answer the above question, I would like to choose The Curse by Lee Su Ann. We should love our family members. Novel The theme discussed

2This was shown very clearly in the commitment and responsibility shown by Azreens parents to their daughters, Azreen and Madhuri. Event 1

They took care of those two with good care. For instance, although Madhuri was adopted, but Encik Salleh and his wife loved Madhuri as much as they loved Azreen. They took her from the rice field and raised her up like their own daughter. They also made sure that Madhuri married a good man like Haji Ghani. This is due to the fact that Encik Salleh and his wife wanted Madhuri to be happy and lead a good life. Evidence from the text (elaboration)

3Apart from that, Encik Salleh also showed parental love towards Azreen. Event 2

This can be seen when he saved Azreen from danger three times. One of the times was when a mob rushed towards the Old Ladys house after Asrafs grandmother died. During the riot, Asraf accidentally dropped the torch he was holding and as a result, the Old Ladys house was on fire. When Azreen entered the house to help the Old Lady, the Old Ladys leg was stuck and she would not be able to help the Old Lady. Encik Salleh grabbed Azreen out and saved her just in time before the Old Ladys house collapsed on her during the fire. Evidence from the text (elaboration)

4Finally, we should love our family members is also shown by the relationship between Azreen and her sister, Madhuri. Event 3

They were very close with each other when they were small. They always went out walking or cycling together around the village. They were inseparable. Azreen would sit on the carrier at the back of the bicycle as Madhuri cycled to the market or post office to do some chores for their busy parents. They would also cycle past the paddy field. Moreover, Madhuri always protected Azreen whenever she was in trouble. For instance, when their father and mother was mad at Azreen for stealing mangosteens, she ensured that Azreen ate for dinner Evidence from the text (elaboration)

5In conclusion, the events above proved that this novel showed that we should love our family members. Conclusion

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