Who Is The Protagonist In 'Chrysanthemum'?

The protagonist in 'Chrysanthemum' is a little mouse named Chrysanthemum herself, and she’s absolutely adorable. This sweet, wide-eyed character loves her unique name until she starts school and faces teasing from classmates. What makes her stand out isn’t just her floral name but her journey of self-acceptance. She’s not some action hero or a mythical warrior—just a relatable kid navigating insecurities. The story’s charm lies in how she grows from shrinking under criticism to blooming with confidence, especially with the help of a supportive teacher who shares her own unusual name. It’s a heartwarming tale about embracing what makes you different.

Chrysanthemum, the titular mouse, carries this story with her innocence and vulnerability. She’s not your typical protagonist—no superpowers, no grand quests—just a kid grappling with identity. The bullies’ taunts about her name being ‘too long’ or ‘weird’ hit hard because they reflect real playground cruelty. Her emotional arc is raw: from unwavering pride to crushing doubt, then finally to quiet confidence.

What elevates her character is the symbolism. Her name isn’t just a label; it’s a metaphor for growth under pressure. Like the flower, she wilts temporarily before blossoming anew. The narrative cleverly avoids a fairy-tale fix—the bullies don’t apologize. Instead, Chrysanthemum finds validation within herself and from allies like Mrs. Twinkle. It’s a masterclass in writing child protagonists with authenticity, making her one of literature’s most endearing underdogs.

In 'Chrysanthemum', the lead is this tiny, big-eared mouse girl with a name longer than she is tall. At first, she’s brimming with pride about her name, chanting it like a mantra. But school turns her world upside down when bullies mock it. The brilliance of her character is in her quiet resilience. She doesn’t transform into a fearless champion overnight. Instead, her victory is subtle—learning to love herself despite the noise.

What’s fascinating is how the author uses Chrysanthemum’s arc to mirror real childhood struggles. Her parents’ unwavering support contrasts sharply with the school’s harsh social dynamics. The teacher, Mrs. Twinkle, becomes the unexpected catalyst for change, revealing her own quirky name (Delphinium) and reframing uniqueness as strength. Chrysanthemum’s triumph isn’t about changing others but reclaiming her own joy—a lesson that resonates far beyond the page.