Activity 16: Summarizing and Responding The first part of a novel should do at least three things: Establish the setting of the action, making the world of the story real to us in details and principles. Establish the characters (especially the viewpoint character) in terms of personality, role or job, and strengths and weaknesses. Set the action in motion by giving the characters things to do and problems to solve. It may also hint at some of the themes or big ideas that the novel will explore and develop. Review your marginal notes, sticky notes, word lists, and answers to questions to solidify your understanding of Section One of the novel. Write a paragraph summarizing Section One in terms of the setting, the characters, the intentions of the characters, and any ideas you have about the themes of the