Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pacing
- Moderate
- Mood
- Heartwarming, Hopeful, Gentle
- Read it if
- You enjoy heartwarming stories about animal rescue, character growth, and the power of compassion.
- Skip it if
- You prefer fast-paced thrillers or stories without a strong focus on animals.
The Dog Days of Charlotte Hayes Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
A Reluctant Savior and a Chained Dog
Charlotte Hayes, a fifth-grader who has never liked dogs, becomes increasingly concerned about her neighbors' Saint Bernard puppy, Beauregard. The dog is always chained in the backyard of the next-door house, belonging to the unpleasant Mrs. Peterson and her family. Beauregard is often left without food or water, and Charlotte notices his sadness and neglect. Despite her initial dislike for dogs, she secretly starts to care for him, bringing him water, feeding him, and even giving him reluctant belly rubs. She feels a growing sense of responsibility for the large puppy, recognizing that his living situation is inhumane and that he deserves a better life.
The New Girl and a Grand Idea
A new girl, Haley, moves into town and starts at Charlotte's school. Haley lives in a large house with a spacious yard, which immediately catches Charlotte's attention. Observing Haley's kind nature and seeing her ideal living situation, Charlotte begins to form a plan. She decides that Haley's home would be the perfect place for Beauregard, offering him the space, care, and love he needs. This idea becomes the reason for Charlotte's mission: to rescue Beauregard from the Petersons and find him a truly loving home with Haley, even if it means creating a complicated and risky scheme.
Operation: Beauregard's Escape
Charlotte enlists her best friend, Jamie, to help with her plans to 'rescue' Beauregard. Their first attempts involve trying to sneak Beauregard out of the Peterson's yard and transport him to Haley's house. These early efforts are difficult, as Beauregard is a large and clumsy puppy, making covert operations hard. They face obstacles like the Petersons' watchful eyes, Beauregard's size, and the general difficulty of moving a dog without drawing suspicion. Despite the setbacks, Charlotte's determination to help Beauregard only grows stronger, fueling her and Jamie's continued attempts.
A Temporary Setback and a Growing Bond
After one attempt, Charlotte and Jamie manage to get Beauregard out of the Peterson's yard, but they cannot immediately get him to Haley's. This leads to Beauregard temporarily staying at Charlotte's own house, hidden from her dog-averse parents. During this time, Charlotte's bond with Beauregard deepens. She experiences the joy and companionship a dog can offer, as Beauregard's playful and affectionate nature shines through. Her initial reluctance towards dogs begins to disappear, replaced by genuine affection and a strong protectiveness, making her even more committed to finding him a permanent, loving home.
The Truth Revealed to Haley
Realizing the difficulty of her mission alone, Charlotte decides to confide in Haley. She bravely approaches Haley and explains Beauregard's neglectful situation at the Petersons' house, her secret care for him, and her hope that Haley might be able to offer him a home. Charlotte is nervous about Haley's reaction, but she understands that she needs Haley's cooperation and compassion for her plan to succeed. This conversation is a turning point, as Charlotte moves from secret operations to seeking direct help from the intended recipient of her rescue efforts, showing how much she cares for Beauregard.
Haley's Compassion and Parental Involvement
Haley, moved by Charlotte's story and Beauregard's situation, agrees to help. More importantly, she involves her parents, who are sympathetic. Haley's parents, being responsible adults, offer a more structured and legal way to help Beauregard. They understand that simply 'rescuing' the dog without proper channels could lead to trouble. This development shifts the story from a secret, child-driven effort to one involving adult intervention, providing a more hopeful and realistic path for Beauregard's future, while still acknowledging Charlotte's initial bravery.
Confronting the Petersons
With Haley's parents involved, the next step is to formally address Beauregard's neglect with the Petersons. Haley's parents approach Mrs. Peterson, offering to take Beauregard and provide him with a loving home. This direct confrontation is a tense moment, as Mrs. Peterson is known for being unpleasant. The Petersons, however, are largely indifferent to Beauregard and are surprisingly willing to part with him, seeing him more as a nuisance than a beloved pet. This interaction, though difficult, allows for a legitimate transfer of ownership, much to Charlotte's relief.
Beauregard's New Home
Following the agreement with the Petersons, Beauregard officially moves to Haley's spacious home. He is no longer chained, has plenty of room to play, and receives constant attention, food, and water. This is a joyous moment for Charlotte, who sees her efforts result in Beauregard finally getting the life she knew he deserved. He thrives in his new environment, showing his sweet and playful nature to Haley and her family. Charlotte frequently visits Beauregard, solidifying her bond with him and seeing the positive impact of her actions.
Charlotte's Transformation
Through her journey with Beauregard, Charlotte changes significantly. Her initial dislike for dogs completely disappears, replaced by a deep love and appreciation for them. She learns that dogs are not just messy creatures, but loyal, affectionate companions. Her experience with Beauregard opens her eyes to the emotional depth of animals and the responsibility of pet ownership. She becomes an advocate for animal welfare, no longer just a reluctant caregiver, but a passionate defender of dogs, forever changed by the Saint Bernard puppy she rescued.
A Community Awakened
Charlotte's story, while focused on Beauregard, also affects her community. The events surrounding Beauregard's rescue bring attention to animal neglect, even if subtly. Other neighbors might become more aware of how pets are treated, or local discussions about animal welfare might start. Charlotte's courage and compassion, initially directed at one dog, help create a broader understanding of kindness and responsibility towards animals, making her a quiet hero in her neighborhood and inspiring others to consider the well-being of their furry friends.
The Dog Days of Charlotte Hayes Characters
Charlotte Hayes
Protagonist
A fifth-grade girl who overcomes her aversion to dogs to rescue a neglected Saint Bernard.
Charlotte is initially a pragmatic and somewhat cynical fifth-grader who doesn't understand the widespread affection for dogs. She sees them as messy and inconvenient. However, her strong sense of justice and empathy is awakened by the neglect of Beauregard, her neighbor's Saint Bernard. She is resourceful, determined, and brave, willing to take risks and devise elaborate plans to help an animal in need. Despite her initial reluctance, she develops a deep, unconditional love for Beauregard.
Relationships: Beauregard (Reluctant caregiver to loving rescuer); Jamie (Best friend and co-conspirator); Haley (New friend and partner in rescue); Mrs. Peterson (Antagonistic neighbor)
Beauregard
Central Figure (Animal)
A large, gentle Saint Bernard puppy suffering from neglect.
Beauregard is a sweet-natured, loyal Saint Bernard puppy who is severely neglected by his owners, the Petersons. He is often left chained in their backyard without adequate food, water, or attention. Despite his difficult circumstances, he maintains a gentle and affectionate disposition, easily forming a bond with Charlotte. His large size and puppy clumsiness are often humorous elements, but his sadness is palpable. He represents the innocent victim of neglect and the potential for joy and companionship a well-cared-for pet can bring.
Relationships: Charlotte Hayes (Recipient of secret care, then rescued by her); Haley (New owner and loving companion); Mrs. Peterson (Neglectful owner)
Jamie
Supporting
Charlotte's loyal best friend and accomplice in her rescue mission.
Jamie is Charlotte's best friend and a steadfast supporter of her plans to rescue Beauregard. She is more cautious and perhaps a bit more pragmatic than Charlotte, often pointing out the risks or practical difficulties of their schemes. However, her loyalty to Charlotte and her growing empathy for Beauregard ensure she remains an active participant. Jamie provides comic relief at times and acts as a sounding board for Charlotte's ideas, offering both assistance and a touch of grounded reality to their adventurous plans.
Relationships: Charlotte Hayes (Best friend); Beauregard (Helper in his rescue)
Haley
Supporting
The new girl in town who ultimately provides Beauregard with a loving home.
Haley is a kind and compassionate new student in Charlotte's class. She lives in a large house with a spacious yard, making her an ideal candidate in Charlotte's mind for Beauregard's new home. Haley is receptive to Charlotte's concerns about Beauregard and, importantly, involves her parents in a responsible manner. She represents the ideal pet owner – someone with the resources and the heart to provide a loving environment for an animal in need. Her willingness to help validates Charlotte's efforts and provides a legitimate resolution.
Relationships: Charlotte Hayes (Friend and partner in rescue); Beauregard (New owner and loving caregiver)
Mrs. Peterson
Antagonist
The neglectful and unpleasant owner of Beauregard.
Mrs. Peterson is Charlotte's next-door neighbor and Beauregard's owner. She is portrayed as mean-spirited, indifferent, and neglectful towards Beauregard, seeing him more as a burden than a pet. Her lack of care for the dog is the primary catalyst for Charlotte's actions. She represents the irresponsible pet owner and the challenges of dealing with adult authority figures who are unwilling to change. Her unpleasant nature makes Charlotte's secret missions more challenging and provides a clear antagonist for the story.
Relationships: Charlotte Hayes (Neighbor and adversary); Beauregard (Neglectful owner)
Charlotte's Parents
Supporting/Mentioned
Charlotte's dog-averse parents, who unknowingly provide a challenge to her rescue efforts.
Charlotte's parents are initially portrayed as somewhat oblivious to Charlotte's secret activities and are notable for their general disinterest in dogs. Their aversion to pets, particularly large ones, creates an additional layer of challenge for Charlotte, as she must keep Beauregard's temporary presence at her house a secret. While not malicious, their stance on dogs highlights Charlotte's personal journey and the lengths she goes to for Beauregard. They represent a common parental dynamic, where children navigate their own moral compass sometimes independently of their parents' views.
Relationships: Charlotte Hayes (Parents to protagonist)
Haley's Parents
Supporting
Responsible adults who provide a legitimate solution for Beauregard's situation.
Haley's parents are kind, understanding, and responsible adults. When Haley shares Charlotte's concerns about Beauregard, they take the situation seriously. They provide the necessary adult intervention, approaching the Petersons formally and ensuring Beauregard's transfer is handled appropriately and legally. They represent the compassionate and ethical side of pet ownership and community responsibility. Their involvement ensures a happy and stable outcome for Beauregard, proving that adult support can be crucial in difficult situations.
Relationships: Haley (Parents to Haley); Beauregard (New legal owners and caregivers)
The Dog Days of Charlotte Hayes Themes
Compassion and Empathy
The main theme is Charlotte's developing compassion for Beauregard. Despite her initial dislike for dogs, she cannot ignore Beauregard's suffering. This empathy drives her to take risks and go to great lengths to help him. The theme is clear when Charlotte secretly feeds and waters Beauregard, and later when she recruits Jamie and Haley, appealing to their empathetic natures. It shows how seeing another being's pain can ignite a strong desire to act, even against personal preferences.
“It's not that she hated dogs. Or that she wanted all of them to disappear off the face of the planet. It's just that she didn't see why everyone loved them so much. But she could tell Beauregard was sad.”
Responsibility and Advocacy
Charlotte's journey is about taking responsibility, not just for her own actions, but for the well-being of another living creature. She feels personally accountable for Beauregard's welfare when his owners fail to care for him. This theme extends to her advocacy, as she actively seeks a better life for him. Her actions show how individuals, even young ones, can become advocates for those who cannot speak for themselves, pushing for change and justice. This is seen in her continuous efforts to feed Beauregard and her elaborate plans to rehome him.
“She knew Beauregard deserved better. There's a new girl at school who lives in a huge house—plenty of room there for a big dog. Charlotte has an idea. Now all she needs is a plan.”
Transformation and Growth
Charlotte changes significantly throughout the story. She begins as a dog-averse girl and ends as someone who deeply loves and champions animals. Her experiences with Beauregard challenge her ideas and open her heart. This theme is clear in how she initially finds 'belly rubs—blech!' but later cherishes her interactions with Beauregard. Her growth is not just about changing her mind about dogs, but about developing her character, courage, and understanding of the world.
“How do you rescue your own dog?”
The Definition of Family and Home
The novel explores what makes a 'home' and a 'family' for an animal. Beauregard has an owner, but he does not have a home in the sense of a loving, nurturing environment. Charlotte's goal is to provide him with a true home. This theme contrasts the neglectful environment of the Petersons' yard with the warmth and care offered by Haley's family, suggesting that love and attention, not just ownership, define a home. It emphasizes that pets are family members who deserve care and belonging.
“No one ever plays with him or checks his food and water bowls, and Charlotte can tell he's sad.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
Reluctant Hero
Charlotte's initial aversion to dogs makes her eventual dedication to Beauregard more impactful.
Charlotte begins the story actively disliking dogs, which makes her decision to help Beauregard a significant personal sacrifice and a testament to her emerging empathy. This device allows for a greater character arc, as her transformation from dog-averse to dog-lover is more pronounced and believable. Her internal conflict between her initial feelings and her growing sense of responsibility adds depth to her character and makes her eventual heroism more compelling for the reader, showing that compassion can arise even in unexpected places.
The 'Rescue' Mission
The plot is driven by Charlotte's clandestine efforts to save Beauregard, creating suspense and adventure.
Charlotte's elaborate plans to 'rescue' Beauregard from his neglectful owners introduce elements of a heist or covert operation. This device creates suspense, humor, and a sense of adventure, as Charlotte and Jamie navigate obstacles like avoiding the Petersons, transporting a large dog, and keeping Beauregard hidden. The series of schemes and their inevitable complications keep the plot engaging and highlight Charlotte's resourcefulness and determination, turning a simple act of kindness into a thrilling journey for young readers.
Foil Character (Mrs. Peterson)
Mrs. Peterson's neglectful nature highlights Charlotte's compassion and Beauregard's plight.
Mrs. Peterson serves as a direct contrast to Charlotte's burgeoning compassion. Her indifference and occasional meanness towards Beauregard starkly highlight the dog's suffering and underscore the urgency and righteousness of Charlotte's mission. Without Mrs. Peterson's neglect, Charlotte's heroism would not be as profound. This device clearly establishes the stakes and the moral imperative behind Charlotte's actions, providing a tangible antagonist whose behavior justifies the 'rescue' efforts.
Symbolism of the Chain
Beauregard's chain symbolizes his neglect, confinement, and longing for freedom.
The chain that binds Beauregard in the Petersons' backyard is a powerful symbol throughout the story. It represents not only his physical confinement but also his emotional and social neglect. It visually communicates his lack of freedom, love, and proper care. When Beauregard is eventually freed from the chain and given a loving home, it symbolizes his liberation from suffering and the fulfillment of his potential for happiness and companionship, marking a clear victory in Charlotte's mission and a new beginning for the dog.
The Dog Days of Charlotte Hayes Quotes
“The world was a big, scary place, but with a dog, it felt a little smaller, a little friendlier.”
“Sometimes, the biggest adventures started with the smallest, furriest friends.”
“A wagging tail could speak more volumes than a thousand words.”
“Growing up meant learning to say goodbye, even to the things you loved most.”
“Home wasn't just a place; it was where your heart, and your dog, were.”
“Even on the cloudiest days, a little bit of sunshine could be found in a dog's smile.”
“Bravery wasn't about not being scared; it was about doing what needed to be done anyway.”
“Every scratch behind the ears was a silent promise of loyalty.”
“Sometimes, the best way to understand people was to watch how they treated animals.”
“The quiet moments were often the loudest in a dog's company.”
“Life had a funny way of giving you exactly what you needed, even if it wasn't what you expected.”
“A true friend didn't need words to know when you were hurting.”
“The greatest lessons weren't always taught in school; sometimes, they had four paws and a wet nose.”
“Even the smallest acts of kindness could create the biggest ripples.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What kind of dog is Beauregard?
- Golden Retriever
- Saint Bernard
- Poodle
- German Shepherd
Show answer
B. Saint Bernard The book explicitly states that Beauregard is a big, drooling Saint Bernard puppy.
Question 2
What is Charlotte's initial feeling towards dogs?
- She loves them unconditionally.
- She thinks they are a nuisance.
- She doesn't understand why everyone loves them so much.
- She is allergic to them.
Show answer
C. She doesn't understand why everyone loves them so much. The synopsis states, 'It's just that she doesn't see why everyone loves them so much.'
Question 3
Why does Charlotte start taking care of Beauregard?
- Her parents forced her to.
- She felt sorry for him because he was neglected.
- She wanted to impress the new girl at school.
- He was her own dog from the beginning.
Show answer
B. She felt sorry for him because he was neglected. Charlotte notices Beauregard is left chained and sad, so she takes it upon herself to care for him.
Question 4
What chore does Charlotte find particularly unpleasant while caring for Beauregard?
- Walking him in the rain.
- Giving him belly rubs.
- Checking his food and water bowls.
- Feeding him every day.
Show answer
B. Giving him belly rubs. The text mentions she gives him belly rubs—'blech!'—indicating her distaste for that particular action.
Question 5
What is Charlotte's main motivation for wanting to 'rescue' Beauregard?
- She wants a dog of her own.
- She believes he deserves a better home and care.
- She is tired of taking care of him herself.
- She wants to give him to her best friend.
Show answer
B. She believes he deserves a better home and care. Charlotte feels 'Beauregard deserves better,' which drives her desire to find him a new home.
Question 6
Where does Charlotte initially consider placing Beauregard for a better home?
- At a local animal shelter.
- With her grandparents who live on a farm.
- With the new girl at school who lives in a huge house.
- She doesn't have a specific place in mind yet.
Show answer
C. With the new girl at school who lives in a huge house. The synopsis states, 'There's a new girl at school who lives in a huge house—plenty of room there for a big dog.'
Question 7
What does the phrase 'How do you rescue your own dog?' at the end of the synopsis imply about Charlotte's relationship with Beauregard?
- She has legally adopted him.
- She has developed a deep bond and considers him hers, despite the circumstances.
- She is planning to steal him from his current owners.
- She is trying to get him back after he ran away.
Show answer
B. She has developed a deep bond and considers him hers, despite the circumstances. The phrasing suggests a shift in her perspective, where she now views him as 'her' dog, indicating an emotional connection has formed.
Question 8
What does Charlotte's act of feeding and providing water for Beauregard, despite her initial aversion to dogs, reveal about her character?
- She is easily manipulated by animals.
- She is secretly trying to get attention from her neighbors.
- She possesses a strong sense of empathy and responsibility.
- She is only doing it out of boredom.
Show answer
C. She possesses a strong sense of empathy and responsibility. Her actions, despite her initial feelings, demonstrate her compassion and sense of responsibility for a neglected creature.
Question 9
The title 'The Dog Days of Charlotte Hayes' likely refers to which of the following?
- A period of hot, lazy summer weather.
- Charlotte's personal struggles and challenges revolve around a dog.
- A specific time of year when dogs are most active.
- The days she spends working at an animal shelter.
Show answer
B. Charlotte's personal struggles and challenges revolve around a dog. Given the plot, 'dog days' refers to a period of hardship or challenge, specifically those brought about by her involvement with Beauregard.
Question 10
Charlotte's realization that Beauregard 'deserves better' is a pivotal moment that signifies what change in her perspective?
- She decides to convince her parents to get a dog.
- She moves from passively caring for him to actively seeking a solution for his well-being.
- She decides to stop caring for him altogether.
- She realizes she can make money by finding homes for neglected pets.
Show answer
B. She moves from passively caring for him to actively seeking a solution for his well-being. This realization shifts her from simply performing chores to formulating 'a lot of plans' to find Beauregard a better life, indicating a proactive approach.
The Dog Days of Charlotte Hayes FAQ
What is the central conflict Charlotte faces at the beginning of the story?
Charlotte, despite her initial indifference to dogs, finds herself burdened with the care of Beauregard, a neglected Saint Bernard puppy chained in her family's backyard. Her primary conflict stems from the responsibility she feels for Beauregard's well-being versus her personal inconvenience and her family's failure to properly care for him.
Who is Beauregard, and what is his initial living situation?
Beauregard is a large, drooling Saint Bernard puppy owned by Charlotte's family. He is kept chained in their backyard, often neglected, with his food and water bowls frequently empty, leading to Charlotte feeling pity and taking on his care.
What prompts Charlotte to start caring for Beauregard, despite her stated dislike of dogs?
Charlotte is moved by Beauregard's obvious sadness and neglect, observing that he is left chained without proper food, water, or attention. Her empathy overrides her initial disinterest, compelling her to provide him with basic care like water, food, and belly rubs.
What is Charlotte's 'big idea' to improve Beauregard's life?
Charlotte's big idea is to 'rescue' Beauregard from her own home by finding him a better family and a more suitable living situation. She targets a new girl at school who lives in a large house, believing it would be perfect for a big dog like Beauregard.
How does Charlotte's perception of dogs evolve throughout the story?
Initially indifferent or slightly averse to dogs, Charlotte gradually develops a deep affection and sense of responsibility for Beauregard. Her journey transforms her from someone who doesn't understand dog love to someone willing to go to great lengths for a dog's happiness, even if it means letting him go.
What role does the 'new girl' play in Charlotte's plan?
The new girl, whose name is not specified but who lives in a large house, becomes the target for Charlotte's plan to rehome Beauregard. Charlotte sees her as a potential owner who could provide the space and care Beauregard deserves, making her a crucial element in Charlotte's elaborate scheme.
Are there any subtle hints early on that Charlotte's family isn't intentionally cruel, but rather neglectful?
The narrative implies neglect rather than malice, suggesting the family is simply overwhelmed or uneducated about proper pet care, rather than actively trying to harm Beauregard. This distinction highlights Charlotte's unique empathy in noticing and acting on the dog's suffering.
What internal conflict does Charlotte experience regarding her feelings for Beauregard versus her desire to find him a new home?
Charlotte struggles with her growing attachment to Beauregard while simultaneously believing he deserves a better life than she or her family can provide. This creates a bittersweet conflict where her love for him motivates her to give him away, highlighting her selfless concern for his well-being.
How does the author use Beauregard's perspective, even indirectly, to convey his sadness or happiness?
The author conveys Beauregard's emotions through Charlotte's observations of his body language and reactions to her care – his 'sadness' when neglected, and his responsiveness to her belly rubs and attention. This allows readers to empathize with Beauregard without direct narration from him.
What does the phrase 'rescuing your own dog' imply about Charlotte's understanding of ownership and responsibility?
The phrase suggests Charlotte recognizes that mere ownership doesn't equate to proper care or a happy life for a pet. It implies that true responsibility means ensuring the animal's well-being, even if it means orchestrating its rehoming from her own family, fundamentally redefining 'ownership' for her.
Does Charlotte face any external obstacles or opposition from her family regarding her care for Beauregard or her plans?
The synopsis focuses on Charlotte's internal drive and her covert plans, suggesting her family is largely unaware or indifferent to her efforts. Any opposition would likely be passive, stemming from their continued neglect rather than active interference with her attempts to care for him.
What themes of empathy and animal welfare are explored through Charlotte's actions?
Charlotte's actions highlight themes of empathy by showing her ability to connect with an animal's suffering despite her initial disinterest. It also emphasizes animal welfare, demonstrating the importance of proper care, attention, and a suitable environment for pets, even when owners fall short.
How might Charlotte's age influence her approach to problem-solving in the story?
As a young adult, Charlotte's problem-solving is likely characterized by innocence, determination, and perhaps a touch of naivety, leading to 'a lot of plans' that might be elaborate or unconventional. Her age allows for a focus on pure intentions unburdened by adult complexities.
Is there a moment when Charlotte fully realizes her love for Beauregard, distinct from her sense of duty?
While the synopsis doesn't pinpoint an exact moment, Charlotte's willingness to create 'a lot of plans' to find Beauregard a better home, even if it means parting with him, strongly implies a transition from duty to genuine love. Her selfless motivation for his happiness goes beyond mere obligation.
What message about pet ownership might readers take away from Charlotte's story?
Readers are likely to take away the message that pet ownership is a significant responsibility requiring commitment, care, and an understanding of an animal's needs. It underscores that pets are not objects but living beings deserving of love and a safe, nurturing environment.
How does the title, 'The Dog Days of Charlotte Hayes,' reflect the story's narrative?
The title uses 'dog days' not just literally to refer to her time spent with Beauregard, but also figuratively to suggest a period of challenge, perhaps even weariness, for Charlotte as she shoulders the burden of Beauregard's care and orchestrates his rescue. It highlights the central role the dog plays in this phase of her life.
Are there any humorous elements or lighthearted moments despite the serious theme of pet neglect?
The phrase 'belly rubs—blech!' suggests a degree of lightheartedness and Charlotte's relatable, slightly reluctant acceptance of dog quirks. The description of her needing 'a lot of plans' also hints at a humorous, perhaps elaborate and slightly clumsy, approach to her mission.
What might be the underlying reason for Charlotte's family's neglect of Beauregard?
The text doesn't explicitly state the reason, but it could range from ignorance about the needs of a large breed like a Saint Bernard, being too busy, financial strain, or simply having taken on a pet without fully understanding the commitment required. Their actions suggest a lack of awareness rather than intentional cruelty.
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