Chapter 1
In the opening chapter of Totto-Chan, the main character, Totto-chan, is introduced. She is an innovative and feisty 8-year-old girl with a unique perspective on life. At the beginning of the chapter, she wakes up in the morning and after getting dressed, she notices a painting of a pot with flames bursting out of it that her father made. She decides to take it to school with her as she thinks it makes her look cool. At school she finds out that she isn't allowed to wear it, so she gets into a brief altercation with the teacher which is quickly resolved. From this opening, we see Totto-chan as a creative, independent and fearless young girl who is capable of standing up in her own way even when facing authority.
Chapter 2
In the second chapter of Totto-Chan, we get a better look at Totto-chan's school and the unique personalities that inhabit it. Although the school is rather unorthodox in its teachings, it is home to a lively environment filled with creativity and unconventional thinking. For example, on Totto-chan's first day, she is asked to present a “presentation” on the people of her family in order to introduce herself. This creative approach is a great example of the sort of unorthodox educational techniques used at the school. Later on in the chapter, there is the introduction of the strict headmaster, who irritated Totto-chan as soon as she first saw him. Overall, this chapter further highlights the innovative and eccentric inner workings of the school.
Chapter 3
In the third chapter of Totto-Chan, we learn more about Totto-chan's teacher, Ms. Kataoka, and her unique teaching style. Ms. Kataoka encourages her students to explore and create in various ways. For example, during one of her classes, she has her students make objects out of clay in order to explore the world around them. During this activity, Totto-chan and her classmates are deeply engrossed in their creations, something that would be practically impossible in a traditional school setting. This chapter furthers the theme of exploration and creativity as we see how Ms. Kataoka uses unconventional methods to teach her students.
Chapter 4
The fourth chapter of Totto-Chan explains how Totto-chan deals with difficult situations. Throughout the chapter, Totto-chan finds herself in many sticky situations, such as when she accidentally hurts a classmate or when she is reprimanded by the headmaster. However, despite these challenging moments, she stays strong and stands up for herself, even when it may not be the most popular decision. For example, when the headmaster scolds her, she responds by firmly stating her views instead of cowering. This reflects the strength of character that Totto-chan has and how she deals with obstacles that come her way.
Chapter 5
The fifth chapter of Totto-Chan delves into the importance of family. When the headmaster finds out that Totto-chan does not have a mother and that her uncle, who was caring for her, mysteriously disappeared, the headmaster reaches out to Totto-chan and offers her comfort and support. This kindness towards Totto-chan is a great example of how family units can be formed through circumstances rather than blood. Also during this chapter, we see how Totto-chan's connection with her father is one of the strongest bonds she has, despite their differing views. This chapter showcases the importance of family and how it can be found even in unlikely places.
