Various Family Dynamics // Lemony Snicket’s centrality of siblings in stories

Hello readers! 

via GIPHY

It is the month of talking about what we love. That's what I do every month on this blog, but this has a special focus for talking about the people we love, not just stories. Therefore I'm going to talk about siblings.

As someone with siblings (note, plural), stories that represent that bond are important to me. And often it feels like character either don't have siblings or act around them in a way that is foreign to me. 

There is, however, a storyteller who absolutely nails talking about various family dynamics, especially siblings: Lemony Snicket.

His most famous work is A Series of Unfortunate Events, which doesn't sound promising for families. In fact, "It will wreck your evening, your whole life, and your day." On the surface it is a series about three orphans who are plagued by terrible events. But at its core, it is a series about trials and triumphs of three siblings trying to figure out the world.

I've come to view Lemony Snicket as writing some of the most realistic siblings I've ever read and related to. And I'm going to tell you why.

Note: This is about two series in the same universe for Lemony Snicket: A Series of Unfortunate Events and All the Wrong Questions. I'm going to talk about the relationships between the characters, but will avoid the plot details, so this is spoiler-free. I've written reviews for the first two books in A Series of Unfortunate Events, so you can read book 1 HERE and book 2 HERE.

Let's get started!

via GIPHY

First, I'm going to say that I didn't always think the best of Lemony Snicket's works. In fact, at first I thought "no siblings act like that". That was before I realized that he was portraying some ideal siblings and didn't recognize the special traits he gave each. But not all of this is joy (hello, none of it is joy. It's Lemony Snicket we're talking about). Snicket has a range that I'll talk about today and how that only strengthens the contrasting siblings. I'll give a few examples though I had to cut myself off from talking about EVERY sibling group because or else we'd be here all day.

A Favorite:

The Baudelaires: A Series of Unfortunate Events 

Key characteristic(s): Defense of each other and using each other's strengths.

The three marvelous and brave children are Violet, Klaus, and Sunny. Each of the children is very defined by their skills (inventing, reading, or biting respectively) and the first thing that comes to my mind when I think of them is how they make the most of their bad situations by using their strengths. Klaus is always suggesting materials that Violet can use to invent things, Violet is always asking Klaus about subjects he might have researched, and the two of them are always making sure Sunny is comfortable and has something to bite. And not just, oh, amuse the baby. They truly include her. This support of each other speaks volumes because they don't look down at each other's interests, but rejoice in them being different and able to lend themselves to the situation from different perspectives.

'[Talking about a picked lock]  "Nice girls shouldn't know how to do that sort of thing"

"My sister is a nice girl and she knows how to do all sorts of things."'

- The Reptile Room 

Secondly, even though the whole world is against them, they have each other's backs. Besides already suffering from so many misfortunes, people always judge the Baudelaires for being orphans, for being intelligent, for anything. In the midst of condescension they always celebrate each other's victories and don't let each person be too hard on themselves.

They are also realistic and always make me laugh when one of the adults say "when I was your age" and they say, "but we're all different ages". That's how I always feel, too.

Even though there is such a big age gap, going back to Sunny, the way that Violet and Klaus understand her is so remarkable to me. They go to lengths to listen to her, even though she doesn't speak in real words. They always convey her feelings to the adults with "what my sister is trying to say...". These are brilliant children and part of that is that they treat each other like they are capable to do what needs to happen.

It's been awhile since I read the books ( I mean, 2021 wasn't THAT long ago. But still. My mind is full with too many things) so this might be wrong but I remember the end of The Reptile Room being all about the Baudelaires saying at least we've got each other in the middle of this miserable time. And that's the best things about siblings. So don't fight each other, support each other, and don't let go.

“I think we'll always miss our parents. But I think we can miss them without being miserable all the time. After all, they wouldn't want us to be miserable.” 

- The Reptile Room 

And in The Wide Window?? How they are rearranging their gifts to make everyone happy even though that leaves Klaus the least happy. They are selfless when it comes to each other. And I've written about how Klaus is my darling, but the other two equally are! Which is why, in The Miserable Mill, they knew something was wrong. Other siblings who didn't know each other so thoroughly would be thrown off, but they stepped outside of their comfort zones to help each other. They know their strengths and when to imitate each other.

Source
Fan art is my FAVORITE.

As Opposed to:

The Poes: A Series of Unfortunate Events 

Key characteristic: Selfishness.

Edgar and Albert are characters who only get a fraction of a chapter in the first ASoUE book, as opposed to siblings who get more "screen time", but I'm going to talk about them because they set an important standard to help us get to know the Baudelaires better.

In the midst of grief, the Baudelaires have to stay with the Poes. And Edgar and Albert are quite horrible. They complain about having to share with three children who lost everything in the world. I don't remember everything they say because it is not worth remembering, but it shows us a place of sneering and selfishness that contrasts the comfort the Baudelaires give each other.

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A Favorite:

The Quagmires: A Series of Unfortunate Events 

Source
Everything I said about fan art still holds up because this is glorious.

Key characteristic: Unbreakable bonds. 

I've seen things before that says there's a word for orphan, but no word for losing a child because there isn't a way to express that pain. Same for losing a sibling. The word that adults try to use is "twin", but that's completely wrong. Duncan and Isadora refuse to be called twins, and instead always refer to themselves as "triplets", because that's what they are, whether or not Quigley is there he won't be forgotten. This is a dark introduction to the Quagmires, but shows that they are not their name: they do not "give way underfoot" (the definition I looked up for "quagmire" in the New Oxford American Dictionary. I've lauded Lemony Snicket before about his naming skills.). Isadora and Duncan stand in Quigley's memory.

I love that Duncan and Isadora's strengths are so similar and yet so different. They both like to write, but Duncan is the journalist and Isadora is the poet. 

As rare as it is to see siblings in fiction, I feel like it is rarer still to see groups of siblings who are completely friends with each other. The Quagmires and Baudelaires carry how they interact with their own brother and sisters into their friendship with each other. It's beautiful in such an austere place.

The way they even sit to leave room for Quigley? *cries*

I keep accidentally calling Duncan "Dylan" due to him being played by Dylan Kingwell. I just need to say their name in the opposite order, Isadora and Duncan...

A Favorite:

The Snickets: A Series of Unfortunate Events and All the Wrong Questions

Key characteristic: Fighting for justice.

"...Snicket?" those of you who are unfamiliar with this series might say. "As in Lemony Snicket? The author?" Absolutely.

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This is what sets the tone for these books, Lemony's narration and hints at his life being connected to all of this.

If you read ASoUE and thought, "but I want to know more about Lemony!", then All the Wrong Questions is the series for you. He is literally the main character in addition to the narrator. Does this answer questions about his family and upbringing? Not really. But the hints make me scream and shriek and everything. One of my favorite parts is the code phrase: "Give my regards to Jacques." which Lemony explains to mean one thing...and then also what it says. 

I think there are only one or two times that we see two of the Snickets interact, there is still such a strong bond between these siblings. They all lead such busy lives in their fight for justice and truth and being well read. Being on the run does not give time for family, but they don't forget each other. One tells the tales of woe of the others. A moment in book 7 nearly made me cry the last time because it is one of those sibling connections where the two characters aren't on the page at the same time, but are unbreakably together all the same.

Even though AtWQ does its best to not answer questions, you get little glimpses into Lemony's life because he'll remember waiting at a bus stop and playing Beethoven with his brother. And yes, I agree with his sister, it's inane, but it's also SO STINKING FUN. I love the phone calls, that however short they are, it is Lemony reaching out for comfort. I just realized that I've always assumed that Lemony is the middle child for some reason, but now I'm starting to think that maybe he's the youngest? He might be too elusive to ever say.

“I looked out the window at the dark and racing scenery and I thought of the city, where the train would eventually arrive. I hadn’t seen the city since my apprenticeship began, and for a moment I felt so homesick I had to stop and lean my head against the glass. Dear Kit, I thought. And then I said it out loud.

'I wish you were here.'"

- Why Is This Night Different From All Other Nights? 

As Opposed to:

The Denouements: A Series of Unfortunate Events 

Key characteristic: Conflicting causes.

I LOVE the juxtaposition of the Denouements against the Snickets. The Snickets are all for fighting for the same cause no matter what the price and bearing that heavy burden together, while the Denouements are on different sides and use being identical to keep up the facade. Here it's something that is accepted and fought against at the same time, but you don't really see Frank and Ernest interacting, besides supposedly (aka seen through a telescope) arguing.

And that's reality. Sometimes you aren't on the same side as your siblings. "The schism has turned many siblings into enemies." Sometimes siblings can do terrible things, things that aren't noble. That doesn't mean that you don't love them, but love looks different.

A different set of siblings looks at loyalty despite morals, so Snicket covers a wide range for how families interact.

The whole question of "Are you Frank or Ernest?" is quite poignant.

I'm 100% sure in the show that the "give my regards to" line was inspired by All the Wrong Questions. And even though I hadn't read AtWQ at that point, I flipped out for completely different reasons. It was fabulous.

A Favorite:

The Bellerophons: All the Wrong Questions

Key characteristic: Teamwork

Because I couldn't just mention All the Wrong Questions once because I'm still not sure which series I like better.

The Bellerophons are the sole transportation in Stain'd-by-the-Sea, though neither of them are old enough to be driving a taxi. Their dad, the official driver, is incapable at the moment, so they use what they have: each other. I believe Squeak operates the gas and breaks while Pip steers. They will give you a ride for free if you give them a tip on what to read next. It's not an ideal childhood, working, but they do it with each other. They are champions of the world.

“It's hard when you're missing your family," Pip said, and started the motor. " You wake up every morning like someone took one of your legs.” 

- Shouldn't You Be in School? 

There are more siblings in Lemony Snicket's works, but this list is four of my favorites with two to contrast. My huge theory is that Zada and Zora in All the Wrong Questions are the two White-Faecd Women, but that's a conversation for another day. All together, Lemony Snicket writes about mourning and grief, but also how we shouldn't let go of our siblings because with them we can get through anything.

This is my entry for Hameltte's We Love Siblings Week! There are games and a giveaway and all kinds of fun things, so go check all the other posts out!

Do any of you have siblings? Does anyone else know Lemony Snicket? If you do, then I hope you enjoyed all the references I stuck in there because it was so fun to create! I haven't seen the movie version, only the series and read the books, so does anyone know if the movie represents siblings like this?

Which of the Baudelaires do you feel most like? Which Quagmire? In fact, which of any of these siblings are you most like? How do you act around your siblings?

Thanks for reading!

Chloe the MovieCritic

Top 10 Authors Who Come Up With The Best Fictional Character Names

Hello, guys! 

I hope that you're having a good Easter season and spring! Finals are coming up, so I thought I'd do a post before that all starts. I mean, you can expect a post the first week of May without a doubt (still haven't figured out what it is yet, but I'll come up with it.), but after that it might be quiet around here for a little bit. So, I thought I'd do a top ten list!

As the movie Cinderella (2015) says, "Names have power, like magic spells.". Characters are my favorite parts of stories, and while "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet", there is something particularly influential when names go deeper than the surface with the names. In all of my writing, coming up with a character's name is something tied to the deepest dark inside them.

Then there are names that are undeniably fabulous.

Today, I'll be talking about both. I have noticed authors with a flair for monumental meanings in names, so I want to honor them today. And fangirl, because its what this blog is about when I'm too busy for reviews. Many of these are just books because I might get more attached to names when I read them. But that could be correlation not causation. Let's get to it!

There are NO spoilers for any of these stories. I'm talking about the introduction to these names we receive and might have hints for the future, but they will be too cryptic to understand unless you are a fan. Enjoy without fear of learning the endings for these characters! (I'm also talking about too many to get into details...)

Honorable Mentions: Agatha Christie (for the world-famous Hercule Poirot.). Rachel Kovaciny (for the eloquent swag of Jedidiah Jones).

10. Leigh Bardugo.

I've only recently (since June of last year?) gotten into Ms. Bardugo's books. I was not thrilled by the names in her Shadow and Bone series. In fact, it only messed me up. I'm trained from Spanish lessons to think that "Mal" means bad so I was biased against his character. Alina Starkov is cool enough, I admit. Though, the Darkling just feels cliche. I was quite happy with Sturmhond, which makes sense because he is my favorite character.

All this is to say, I did not consider her to be skilled or unskilled at naming. Just normal.

Then I read Six of Crows.

These names fit each character so deliciously. 

Kaz Brekker: Why does he do things? Just Kaz. Dirtyhands will break your heart.

Inej Ghafa: Also known as "The Wraith", she is always "on edge". 

BRILLIANT. I don't know if Ms. Bardugo intended those meanings, but I love how well they go with the characters. I also love Jesper (perfectly shows refined and careless simultaneously) and Pekka Rollins (just rolling with evil intent). (not that I love Pekka's character. We aren't talking about characters themselves because Nina and Mathhias would be on this list. We are talking about the NAMES). I am such a fan. I can't wait to meet new characters in Crooked Kingdom.

9. The STAR WARS writers.

This is a HUGE range because at this point there are probably hundreds of Star Wars writers who have contributed to the names and I want to give credit to them all. This universe holds so much potential and these writers step up to the task again and again. 

I first noticed that the names are EPIC while watching Clone Wars and meeting Jedi Master Luminara Unduli. Such an amazing name, am I right? After that I began thinking about all of the other names, and came to appreciate them in a new light (pun not intended, but I'll take it.). Luke Skywalker? Big and blusterous, sure, but LEGENDARY. (apologies, I don't know what it is with me and all caps tonight. This will probably not be the last time). Han Solo? A smuggler who's name is Solo? Love it. Leia Organa? The perfect name for a princess and a general. Obi-Wan Kenobi? It seems like a mess of letters, but he has my whole heart.

Moving on to the sequels (which, friendly reminder, some people actually adore, so easy on the backlash, okay?), they continue these amazing names! In a battle of light against darkness, you name the main character one word: Rey. Simple and poignant. Names have such power here, with Finn finding identity once he receives his name, and Kylo Ren's fight against the Ben inside him.

Not all of the names are the most significant artistically. Sure, Darth Vader was lacking, but this more than made up for throughout. Hello there, Ahsoka Tano?

All you prequels fans were expecting something else, weren't you?

8. Maryrose Wood.

Should I talk about her names when I haven't finished the series and stuff might happen to sour them in my mouth? What kind of an attitude is that!? I'm totally talking about them, because my not finishing the series is not from a lack of effort, just resources. 

Ms. Wood combines the "cottage core" and goth of Victorian England perfectly in names in her The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place series. Listening to the audiobooks is an absolute must to hear Katherine Kellgren say all of these names. 

Let's start with Penelope Lumley. Penny's so young but already has so many responsibilities as a governess, which the introduction of her and her name shows us. These books are bursting with amazing names. Charlotte Mortermir shows she is caring (excuse any misspellings. As I said, I only listen to the audiobooks.). Judge Quincy makes a shiver run down your spine. The darling children's where picked for convenience, but are nevertheless PERFECT. Laaaaaaaaady Constance is constantly thinking about herself. Agatha Swanburn is the epitome of education sophistication. Though, my favorite is three darling words: Simon. Harley. Dickinson. Which spells out heart throb, in case you were wondering.

Me, every time his name is said.

7. L. M. Montgomery.

L. M. Montgomery's writing itself is the most gorgeous I have ever read, so of course her naming skills are incredible as well. I love how she makes fun of fancy names by giving her most famous protagonist the plainest name she could come up with: Anne Shirley. Anne hates her name herself (Cordelia, anyone?), but lets her inner character shine through without frills. Am I saying the name Anne is boring? Not at all! I adore it. I'm just saying Ms. Montgomery makes it all the more magically as Anne comes to accept her name and herself.

Surrounding Anne, there are amazing names that can tell you instantly what a character is like. Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert. Mrs. Lynde. Gilbert Blythe. Phillipa Gordon. My special favorite is Roy (short for Royal, you know) Gardener. How. perfect. is. that.? Each page is alive with characters and their names that stay with you forever.

When I talk about names I can go on forever or be concise like Thor.

The Avonlea Chronicles is my prominent read which consists of the above characters, but I also want to give a shout out to The Blue Castle. I mean, Valancy Stirling? Gorgeous and melancholy, which Valancy wants to reject as she wants to be full of life.

6. Wendelin Van Draanen.

Have I read enough of her books to be an expert in this? No, probably not. I've only read five of her books, and three of those were in the same series, so for the most part the characters were the same. Too bad I'm under qualified, because I'm going to talk about the names in her books anyway.

Starting off with my favorite: Bryce Loski and Juli Baker. Iconic. (I especially love Bryce's excuse about there being a bee tying into his name when the only bee was B-R-Y-C-E.). Though, those are almost the only two names that remained the same for the movie, as almost all the other names were given a more 60s vibe or something?

"Goodness, child! Are you alright?"

"There was a bee."

Who knew a medieval movie would provide real footage of Bryce?

I also want to talk about Sammy Keyes. I've talked about her a lot recently (yes, two months ago is still recent because that was only three posts ago). Samantha Keyes: such a fitting name for a detective. Unlocking all the mysteries, you know? It has a nice ring to it while being fresh and young.

As some of you may remember, my absolute favorite book I read in 2021 was Wild Bird. I read this book a year ago, so I don't remember most of the names (I also read this book in one day, so if I had taken longer the names would have stuck with me more, you know?), but I do remember being blown away. Names are SO important in this book. Our main character, Wren Clemens, has always been insecure about her name. Yes, its after the bird, now leave me alone. We learn that because of this she was able to relate and find a friend in Meadow, but that lead her down a very destructive path. Now can she spread her wings and fly again? LOVE IT. LOVE IT. LOVE IT.

5. Kate DiCamillo.

We're entering the top five, and who is better to lead us than Kate DiCamillo? She is the middle grade fiction QUEEN. All of her books change my life and are so powerful. Her names, too? Whether it's a pig named Mercy Watson or an animal control officer named Francine Poulet, the names are always highlights. How about a squirrel named Ulysses? A cynic named Flora? A toy rabbit originally named Edward Tulane who goes through other names as well?

"There is nothing sweeter in this sad world than the sound of someone you love calling your name."

We cannot go through this post without talking about the sweet little mouse, Despereaux Tilling. His mother named him "despair" because he was the only child that year who survived. Can you image being named "despair"? What does he do with it? He becomes a gentleman. He does the opposite of despair; he hopes. 

"The story said she was a prisoner but that wasn't totally true because she had hope and whenever you have hope, you're never really anybody's prisoner." (this applies to Despereaux as well as Princess Pea!)

He fails all classes that teach him to be scared and has true courage. So chivalrous! This story alone is a gold mine for names. Roscuro, coming from the word chiaroscuro, the perfect name for an antihero. Can Ms. DiCamillo get a round of applause for Miggery Sow?

Did I purposely use a gif from a different movie about rats? You bet.

And the names in her Three Rancheros series? Still absolute fire. Rayme Clarke. Louisiana Elefante. And Burke Allen III? That one broke me and I haven't recovered.

4. Kent Davis.

He's only published the A Riddle in Ruby trilogy, but in addition to mind bending world building, his characters names are top-notch. Our protagonist's, Ruby, full name is Aruba Teach. I want that name! And her father is Wayland Teach? That name sails into illustrious status. (*laughs at own pun no one will get*)

But that is not the pièce de résistance. Are you ready to be blown away?

...

Wisdom Rool. 

Most. Epic. Bad. Guy. Name. Ever. Wisdom?? Rool?? I adore it vastly. (it breaks my brain so much that I can't even write sentences properly).

The kids in this book are so talented in so many ways, and their names are fantastic. You have Athen and Henry, then you have Cram Cramson. Cram is my favorite, guys. He is awesome. In later books we meet more. Like, Avid Wake?? Such a good name for a nemesis! Then the twins Levi and Never (or is it Ever? It kept changing on me) Curtsie. Gideon Stump. Each one describes the personality of the characters so well. I should come up with a more original way to explain this phenomena, but I'm gobsmacked, okay?

Also, Gwath? Perfect for a mentor even though we do not see enough of him. Or any of Evallina Puddledump. Sure, we never see her, but the NAME. The name cracks me up and I love it.

My reaction.

3. Lemony Snicket.

Mr. Snicket and I have a history that I have probably gone into in the past here or there. But, coming up with as awesome a pen name as Lemony Snicket, shows that he has talents for naming. Not just characters but locations, too. Lucky Smells Lumber Mills? Say that five times fast. 667 Dark Avenue? I mean, Lake Lachrymose? Meaning tears?

I mean, naming it A Series of Unfortunate Events told us that already.

But, I'm here to talk about the characters. You guys might have noticed that I love side characters who pop up very briefly. This goes for Justice Strauss, Captain Julio Sham, and Esmé Gigi Genevieve Squalor (just that last name, guys.). And the Denouement brothers? Are you Frank or Ernest? My answer is always yes. The fact that "quagmire" means "an awkward, complex, or hazardous situation" (according to the New Oxford America dictionary)? That describes the triplets perfectly.

Count Olaf has such a sinister nature to it (this was before everyone associated that name with a snowman), but what really got me appreciating it was the Netflix series. The "It's the Count" song?? "N for the knowledge cuz I'm very very smart." *dies*

Enough about ASoUE. I mostly want to talk about my love for the All the Wrong Questions series characters. Lemony is, of course, one of the highlights. There is also S. Theodora Markson. What does the S stand for? Silence, Snicket. Then you have darling Jake Hix and Cleo Knight (and Jake's aunt, Hungry. That always makes me giggle). Ellington Feint? Mysterious and determined. Moxie Mallahan? What a name for a junior reporter! My babies Pip and Squeak! There are two names of important characters that I cannot remember, so it must be time to read those books again.

My ultimate favorite: DASHIELL QWERTY (Possibly the best name ever). Librarians are the best. This series is good stuff mixed with dark curling tendrils of forgotten ink.

2. J. K. Rowling.

Regardless of quibbles I have with anything, Ms. Rowling slays writing characters names. And my experience only comes from Harry Potter. That name itself spread popularity like wildfire. I tended to scream in excitement even when it was the smallest character has a great name. I also like to think that I remember every name. The other day I panicked for a second while watching Goblet of Fire with friends because I couldn't remember Fluer's sister's name. But, the second passed and I remembered it was Gabrielle. Whew. And they weren't even out of the water yet.

Get ready for me to commence spewing epic names.

Oliver Wood.

The amount of times my older sister and I quote this is ridiculous.

Hermione Granger. 

Luna and Xenophilius Lovegood? Crazy and lovable and just as sane as I am. 

Severus Snape? Immediately sowed the seeds of suspicion with a name that is short and cold. 

Newt Scamander? Who is a magizooligist, dealing with magical creatures? Brill.

Draco Malfoy? Nemesis name perfection. 

Minerva McGonagall. Rubius Hagrid. Names that foreshadow brilliantly, like Remus Lupin and Sirius Black? Nymphadora Tonks. Good feelings with all of the Weasleys: Molly, Arthur, Charlie, Bill, Percy, Fred, George, Ron, and Ginny. (Yes, I said Charlie. Don't you dare forget him). Beatrix Lestrange? *shudders*. Viktor Krum. Gilderoy Lockhart? Glittering, but a locked heart. Dolores Umbridge. Dobby?? Pius Thickness?? That, friends, is my second favorite fictional name of all time: Pius Thickness.

I could probably do a top ten list purely for Harry Potter character names. Would you guys be interested in that?

And now for number one...

1. Charles Dickens.

As The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017) showed us:

Here, why don't you just watch the genius of this scene.

Then we need to see him saying the name again, because one can't have too many gifs, right?

Ebenezer Scrooge. It says everything about hating Christmas, regret, bottling up feelings and drowning them in piles of money.

Pip. Estella. Miss Havisham. Oliver Twist. Bill Sykes. Fagin. The Artful Dodger. Tiny Tim. Bob Cratchit. Sydney Carton. Try to find a flaw in this excellence.

But, whoa, MC, why does Mr. Dickens have the honor of being your favorite? Because he wrote my favorite character name of all time. From the book David Copperfield. Are you ready for it?

Uriah Heep.

What does that name make you think of? That's the character exactly. Slimy, scheming, unreliable. It is a perfect mic drop. I'll have to just leave you guys with it.

There you have it. What do you guys think of these names? Which are your favorite of the ones I listed above? What are your personal favorites that I didn't list? Who are your favorite authors who come up with the best fictional character names?

Have a great end to your April!

Chloe the MovieCritic

My Top Ten Fictional Characters Who Need to be Protected at All Costs aka My Children, My Sons, My "Babies"

Hello, friends!

(sorry, that title is crazy. I'll explain soon). I've decided that I want to do a "Top Ten" list of some kind every month because it's something that I can get out fairly quickly with school and I really enjoy putting together. Plus, it's a great conversation starter for learning about what you guys think of the topic at hand.

I'm starting out with something that is very confusing to define, because I think this category exists only for my older sister and I. I'll do the best I can to explain, though.

You know those characters who seem to be trying so hard to accomplish a goal, sure that it will come out alright despite the odds?

They have the sweetest smiles ever and you know they are just going to end up dead if you don't protect them with every fiber of your being?

At the same time they are a little oblivious to the problems and biases in the world that may try to stop them.

They don't think they are, of course, but it's obvious to everyone else. They never know what you've saved them from.

'"So?"

"What?"

"Thank you? You're supposed to say thank you."

"For what?"'

These characters are what I call "babies". Basically, these characters are my helpless children. It's a little bit of a loose term sometimes, as I tend to call any character I love a "baby" (or an "idiot" depending on what they are doing...), but I'm trying to define it as closely as I can here. These characters are my children. I don't know if it is vital that these characters are guys, but I have a hard time thinking of female characters who fits my definition. I would love to hear if any of you can help me come up with any female characters! When I come up with ten I'll do a post specially for them. For example, Luna Lovegood maybe is on the brink of being a "baby". And Marianne Dashwood is a baby who needs so much protection. Or Margaret Dashwood.

These characters are my fictional sons. If you watch Enola Holmes (2020), I think of these characters exactly as she talks about a sheep on a cliff.

"He'll be fine."
(and then they never are)

Another thing that isn't necessary, but certainly enhances the "baby" qualities is when the character is helplessly in love. It is so often a factor that there are only two characters on this list who you can arguably say haven't been.

Exactly. But, also lovable, and Peter Quill is not both so he doesn't quite fit.

You may have heard the term "cinnamon roll" used for characters, and I like to think of "babies" as inept cinnamon rolls. Does that help with the explanation? They are precious. Too precious for their own good, so much so that I just think about how I can take care of them all the time.

This all started with a character (who is in this list...keep reading to find out who!) who I one day started calling "sweet baby -------" and now I can't even say his name without adding the "sweet baby" on. The most important thing is that being a "baby" is not a bad thing. I LOVE these characters so much!

All in all, this list probably makes no sense, but let's have at it.

Note: There are no spoilers in this post for any of the things. I'll just be talking about what makes these characters the way they are and might hint at things, but I won't say any direct spoilers. Not that a personality is ever the big secret. I am mostly talking about movies here but there are book characters who are babies. Several of my favorites are unpublished or else they would be on this list....

Honorable mentions: William Turner from Pirates of the Caribbean (he's a little too capable to be a baby. He's more of a toddler), Peter Parker from the MCU (also more of a toddler. And I'm also more of his twin sister instead of mother), Bucky from the MCU, Much from the BBC Robin Hood, and Jay (+all my Ninjas. Especially Lloyd) from LEGO Ninjago.

10. Merlin from the BBC show Merlin.

I'm kind of mad at Merlin right now in the middle of season 5, because he is such a dollophead, but I'll talk about him anyway. He isn't my favorite character in the show (see my list of top ten favorite fictional male characters), but he is arguably the one who fits the definition "baby" the most. I mean, Arthur definitely is close to dying way more than Merlin, and Merlin has to be the one who saves him. Merlin is in this category instead of Arthur because while he is a powerful wizard and definitely capable of defending himself, he often forgets to. Why? Because he has to take care of Arthur.

He is so sweet and trusting (until he is SUPPOSED to be. That would be helpful). He's terrible at keeping secrets so it's a wonder he's alive. Good thing he has Gaius to tell them all to. He makes up the worst excuses ever. He's picked on a lot by Arthur, but he never leaves Arthur's side. He's a little mischievous, but he can't do any real harm because he is the worst assassin ever. Even when he is trying his hardest.

MERLIN. What ARE you even doing??

9. Prince Caspian X from The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (2008) (MOVIE ONLY).

This is talking about the movie only because let's face it, the book and movie are very different. This is also the biggest thing I have a hate/love relationship with, because some days I LOVE all the ways it is different from the book and I think it fits perfectly, and other times I HATE it. You've caught me in a good mood, today.

Armor does not detract from being a baby. I'm so proud you put safety first, hun.

He's trying so hard to be a leader and we're cheering for him even though he is such a "baby". He wants to bring magic and respect to all back to Narnia, which is a noble activity. He's grown more in character by the time of later books/movies, so we don't see as much of him, but he's still wonderful. If you doubt me calling him a baby, then think about this line:

Reepicheep : '"Choose your last words carefully, Telmarine!"

Caspian: "You are a mouse."

Reepicheep : "I was hoping for something a little more original."'

(Caspian goes on to show a lot of sense when it comes to fighting, and I'm so proud)

8. Neville Longbottom from the Harry Potter series.

Neville's character arc is one of my favorites in the entire series and is a character I look up to and want to be like. Is it common for parents to wish to be more like their children? He gets the reputation for being a "baby" because in the first few books/movies he gets hurt almost all the time. If someone gets injured, it's sure to be him. Broken arm? Check. Fainting? Check. I want to be his proper parent, okay?

<3 I use this gif a lot, but I LOVE IT BECAUSE HE IS SO WONDERFUL.

He is the definition of a true Gryffindor because he has a strong moral compass about what he thinks is right. He's brave even when he is afraid, which shows courage. He's dependable even when you forget about him. Which I never do, because I am his mother. Though it was a strange choice for the filmmakers to take a lot of another character's lines/elements and give them to Neville, I'm glad they did because it means I got to see more of him.

7. Klaus Baudelaire from A Series of Unfortunate Events.

(Sunny would be an actual baby for me to put on this list, but remember, we are talking about it in my terms). 

I'm talking about the Netflix show because I'm always annoyed with Klaus in the books (except in number 8! And I haven't reread past that yet) and I haven't seen the 2004 movie yet. Klaus struck me as whiny in the books but with Louis Hines playing him, my heart aches for him constantly. He's so upset and I wish I could go back to that day on the beach an erase all that happens to him.

This gif is subtle, but I love it because he's SMILING! Which is rare, but it shouldn't be. Poor guy.

Of his siblings, he is the one who most often sees the misery in their situation. This sounds pessimistic when I say it, but in his case it is actually very rational. He wants to keep his sisters safe and is always looking out for them. That includes looking for danger, which is a hard job. He gets picked on in many circumstances whether its because he's an orphan or because he is smart. Knowledge is one thing that never leaves you and he carries it with him everywhere, ready to use it to save the day.

He's so intense here it's kind of creeping me out...and we all know why.

If anyone ever slaps him, hurts him, or messes with him in any way again they will have to deal with me.

6. Marius Pontmercy from Les Miserables (2012).

If there has ever been a lovestruck character, it is Marius. I can't think of any other as helpless as he is (it's okay, because others are helplessly in love with him, too). I'm thinking specifically of the 2012 movie, as in the Masterpiece mini series he annoyed me. Here, he is an adorable human being who needs a hug. I haven't read the book yet so I can't speak for that.

Marius has to be reminded by Enjorlas that "he is no longer a child", but to me he is. Marius forgets this when he is struck by a breathless delight. How many times is in necessary for people to take care of him? A lot. If I were there I would do the same thing, because he is incapable of doing it himself. I have another hate/love relationship with this movie, but Marius ALWAYS puts a smile on my face, no matter what. Unless he's in trouble. Then I'm very angry and concerned. He feels deeply for his friends and is loyal. He works for change and is brave. We don't let him be selfless because then he would end up in more trouble, but I know he has the capability to be. Just don't tell him I told you that.

I present to you all, the face of a "baby".

(If you doubt him being a baby then listen to "ABC Café/Red & Black". I'm totally right, aren't I?) 

(Great, now I have the Les Mis soundtrack stuck in my head...)

5. Viscount Tewkesbury, Marquess of Basilwether from Enola Holmes (2020) (MOVIE ONLY).

I read the book, and in it Tewkesbury is a spoiled kid (yes, kid, as he's like 10 or something) who is bratty and stubborn and all around I couldn't wait to get rid of him. Here, the opposite couldn't be truer.

I know I used so many examples from this movie above when I explained "babies", but Tewkesbury fits the definition perfectly so he has to be in the list, too. I'm not supposed to have favorites, but Tewkesbury is so much like me that he might be a favorite. My sister often says Enola's line to me of: "You make an awful lot of noise, don't you." Like mother, like son.

100% Adorkable

Yes, so, he's a "baby". He protests this, saying, "I'm not entirely an idiot.". He is such a dork. All the time. He has a very carefree air about him, and loves plants, which makes him so much more lovable. He cares about the planet and people even when the world seems to be against him. He has brilliant ideas but sometimes goes about them the wrong way. He is extremely loyal which makes us all want to be loyal to him.

He has a deeper side, too. He says things that cut you right to the core, like, "People don't seem to want us, do they?". That makes me scream, "Of course I want you, you are my child!"

4. Albert Mondego from The Count of Monte Cristo (2002) (MOVIE ONLY).

It's important to note only the movie here, because I just finished the book of The Count of Monte Cristo and Albert is not nearly as precious. He's kind of full of himself in my opinion. But here in the movie he is a darling. He loves his parents and only wants their approval. He wants justice to be done. He is sweet and brave, causing him to utter the famous words, "Do your worst.". He's a little bit of a spy in the movie, but he doesn't realize he's doing it, only trying to show how amazing his friend is.

Oh, and yes, that's a very young Henry Cavil. My sister and I love his expressions when he says "Rome!". And the look on his face when he was kissed is hysterical. (Out of context that doesn't make any sense, sorry.) He's quite a gentleman. I should stop before I start saying nonsense.

3. Ben from the Descendants movies.

Ben is a dear one and I love him so much. He's so kind and wants to be a good king to all of his people (though he is SO YOUNG. PLEASE, give the guy some more time! He's perfectly capable, but I want him to have his childhood in its entirety. Here they want him to grow up so fast!). 

He remembers people who are otherwise forgotten, seeing the potential for good in all of them, to the dismay of his parents (real parents, not me, just to be clear). He believes in people when they don't believe in themselves. He can't be bad if he wants to, and is also not good at being subtle. He believes love and patience are the strongest magic. Only a "baby" would sing such a "ridiculous" song after playing a game of Tourney. Whenever he's sad it breaks my heart. He is never mad at people, and listens to their problems.

Aww, cutie! That's my boy!

While I don't like the third Descendants movie, Ben is still a baby. And probably my favorite part of that film (though. he. is. so. young. what. even.)

2. Drake Carne from Poldark.

That smile will melt anyone's heart like butter.

Ah, Drake, Drake, Drake. He is one of the reasons I started watching the show. He came from a rough childhood to live with his sister, and proceeds to get into the most trouble ever. Why? Because he is a "baby". He is patient and loving in addition to wanting the make people happy. He loves making people laugh, which involves him being a bit of a trickster which leads him to GET INTO TROUBLE. Ugh, why do you put me through so much pain?

I didn't love what they tried to do to his character in a later season, but I keep my own sweet memories of him. He is the most polite person I have ever seen on this planet. I find myself talking like him, saying, "Thank ye" all the time. He's the kind of person who has such a big heart that just watching him makes me want to do good in the world.

Drake, baby, it's you who are special, not the flowers.

(Also, if any of you go read the Comic Space Opera on Miss Megan's blog HERE, know that Dick also vies for spot #2.)

And #1 is...

1.  Cameron James from 10 Things I Hate About You (1999).

"Sweet Baby" Cameron is the one who started this whole thing off. I don't know why. We don't see a lot of him before we learn that he is in love and it is his whole world. That's what happens when you move to a new school, I guess. He's a darling. So compassionate, and willing to go to any lengths to be with the girl he loves. Learn French? Check. Come up with an absolute crazy plan to get her to go out with you based on her dad's rules? Check. He takes care of people even when he is disappointed and feels that his heart is broken.

He's just the sweetest, okay? Nobody pick on him, or you are going to get punched in the face. Not just by me.

When he's happy, I'm happy. He's one of my favorite parts of this movie (Kat's sarcasm is another favorite part), and the ultimate baby.

LOOK AT HOW HAPPY HE IS.
YOU. ARE. THE. MOST. PRECIOUS. CHILD. I. HAVE.

There you have it. You all now know what I mean when I talk about my "babies", so you can refer back to this in future posts when I mention "babies". What do you guys think? Do any of you know these characters? Are you their parent, too, or do you have a different relationship with them? What are some of your fictional "children", where you feel obliged to take care of them at all costs? Man, I just wish I could jump into these stories and do just that. Much grief would be spared.

Thank you so much for reading!

Chloe the MovieCritic