Story Elements
Who are the main and side characters within the story?
The main character is Christoph Ferstad. The side characters are Martine, Christoph's friend and Christoph's older brother.
What happens first in the story?
First, a mysterious message saying “Anything you want, anytime you need it” appears on computers and in fancy envelopes delivered to major companies and news outlets.
"The background was stark black, with the words printed out in a crisp white font."
Define the word crisp.
Crisp most likely means clear, sharp, and well-defined. It is often used to describe something fresh or new, like printed text.
Sentence: The words were printed in a crisp white font.
Why do you think Anytime’s marketing campaign was so successful, even though it didn’t explain what the company actually did?
Anytime’s marketing campaign created a sense of mystery and intrigue by delivering personalized cards to reporters and including a website with a cryptic message. The mystery itself sparked curiosity and excitement, making people eager to learn more and test the service, which contributed to its viral success.
What was the first clue that led Christoph to investigate Anytime?
The first clue was the mysterious card that Christoph received, which contained the message "Anything you want, anytime you need it" along with a website address. This intrigued him and led him to check out the website.
What is the setting of the story?
The setting of the story is Christoph's office in Washington D.C.
What happens second in the story?
Next, a company called 'Anytime' launches a website where people can order almost anything for instant delivery, gaining massive attention.
“Christoph smiled. He had no intention of stopping his investigation, and now he knew he was on the right track.”
Define: intention.
Intention means a plan or purpose behind an action.
Sentence: Christoph had no intention of stopping his investigation, no matter the threats.
What does Christoph’s decision to check the website tell us about his personality?
Christoph is curious and eager to learn more. His decision to check the website shows that he wants to investigate and understand what is going on, rather than ignore the situation.
Why do you think Christoph decides to keep investigating the company even after receiving threats?
Christoph likely feels that it is important to uncover the truth, even if it’s dangerous. His desire to get to the bottom of the mystery is stronger than his fear of the threats.
What is the main problem within the story?
The problem is that Christoph suspected 'Anytime' was involved in dangerous or illegal activities, and that people who opposed the company were being silenced.
What happens third in the story?
Then, Christoph, a reporter, begins to investigate and uncovers suspicious incidents involving people who tried to challenge the company.
"He heard rumors about Anytime being used for more nefarious purposes."
Define nefarious.
Nefarious most likely means 'criminal', often used to describe actions that are morally wrong or evil.
Sentence: There were rumors about Anytime being used for nefarious purposes.
How does Christoph’s reaction to the mystery of Anytime reflect his personality and values?
Christoph’s reaction reveals that he is someone who values truth and transparency. His curiosity and determination to solve the mystery show that he is dedicated to his work as a reporter and willing to take risks to expose wrongdoing. His willingness to investigate despite the threats suggests he prioritizes his professional role over personal safety.
What types of items do people begin ordering from Anytime? What does this reveal about the company's appeal?
People begin ordering items like puppies, alligators, meals from exclusive restaurants, and even a cable guy. This reveals that the company has the ability to provide almost anything, instantly, and that it can fulfill unusual or difficult-to-get requests, which adds to its appeal.
List at least 3 emotions Christoph experiences within the story and highlight the text evidence to support your answers.
1. When he first receives the mysterious card, Christoph is immediately curious and intrigued—especially since it's well-designed and delivered in such a unique way.
“Christoph was only too happy to put off getting back to work, so he picked up the card to inspect it more closely.”
2. As he learns more about 'Anytime', especially how quickly it spreads and the rumors surrounding it, Christoph begins to feel suspicious.
“The more Christoph delved into Anytime’s business, the more something seemed off.”
3. When he notices that people who oppose Anytime suffer mysterious or dangerous consequences, Christoph becomes uneasy and worried.
“Goosebumps graced his arms.”
4. Despite receiving threatening emails, Christoph is resolute. He sees the danger but chooses to keep going, which shows courage.
“Christoph smiled. He had no intention of stopping his investigation.”
What happens at the end of the story?
Finally, Christoph receives threatening emails but refuses to back down, determined to uncover the truth behind the mysterious company.
"Christoph began a spreadsheet, outlining every instance that something awful had befallen a person who’d gone up against Anytime."
Define befallen.
Befallen means that something happens to someone, usually in a negative way.
Sentence: Something awful had befallen those who went against Anytime.
What does the fact that Christoph received an anonymous email telling him to "stop stirring up trouble" suggest about the nature of Anytime's power?
The anonymous email suggests that Anytime has the power to intimidate and control those who might uncover its secrets. The company’s ability to send such a message implies that it is willing to go to great lengths, including using threats and manipulation, to silence opposition and protect its interests.
How does Christoph’s attitude toward Anytime change as the story progresses?
Initially, Christoph is intrigued by the company and its seemingly unique offering. As he delves deeper into the investigation, his attitude shifts to suspicion, and he becomes increasingly concerned about the company's potentially illegal and dangerous activities.
What can we infer is a possible solution to this story?
The story ends with Christoph deciding to continue his investigation into 'Anytime', even after receiving anonymous threats telling him to stop. His response—smiling and feeling more certain he’s onto something—suggests that the resolution lies in his personal determination and pursuit of truth, rather than a clear defeat of the mysterious company. Christoph decides to pursue courage over fear and continues to pursue the story.
Sequence the entire story into 4 distinct parts. Remember to use transition words to help your narrative flow.
First, a mysterious message saying “Anything you want, anytime you need it” appears on computers and in fancy envelopes delivered to major companies and news outlets. Next, a company called Anytime launches a website where people can order almost anything for instant delivery, gaining massive attention. Then, Christoph, a reporter, begins to investigate and uncovers suspicious incidents involving people who tried to challenge the company. Finally, after receiving anonymous threats, Christoph decides to continue his investigation, convinced he is close to exposing the truth.
Christoph tried to decipher the corporate records, but the company was registered in the Cayman Islands, making it impossible to figure out who actually owned it.
Define: decipher
Decipher most likely means to interpret or figure out the meaning of something that is difficult to understand or unclear.
Sentence: Christoph struggled to decipher the complicated financial documents.
How does the story explore the theme of power and its potential to be abused?
The story explores how Anytime, a company with seemingly unlimited power to deliver anything instantly, uses its influence in questionable ways. People who try to oppose it face tragic consequences, showing how powerful organizations can use their resources to suppress those who challenge them.
What is the main idea of the passage?
‣The main idea is _______________ (who the story is about) and __________ (what happened).
The main idea is Christoph Ferstad, a business reporter, and his investigation into a mysterious company called Anytime that offers instant delivery of anything, which leads him to uncover suspicious and potentially illegal activities.