Who Wilbur Whateley is
Wilbur Whateley belongs to a secretive family living in the hills of north central Massachusetts. His mother is Lavinia Whateley, and his grandfather, Old Whateley, has a local reputation as a wizard.
He walks and speaks within months, and his appearance soon seems much older than his age. His goatish face, unusual height and the hostility of dogs make him a troubling presence among the villagers.
What Wilbur Whateley wants
Wilbur seeks a better copy of the Necronomicon because his grandfather's old books are falling apart. He wants its forbidden knowledge to help carry out his family's plans to bring beings from beyond into the world.
His search takes him to the library of Miskatonic University in Arkham. There he asks to borrow the dangerous book or copy parts of it.
Wilbur Whateley and the others in the story
Old Whateley teaches Wilbur from ancient books, and the boy learns languages and arcane lore with unnatural speed.
Dr. Henry Armitage, the university librarian, becomes uneasy about Wilbur's appearance and what he seeks. As Armitage investigates, Wilbur's pursuit of knowledge meets someone who recognizes its possible danger.
Questions
Who is Wilbur Whateley's mother?
His mother is Lavinia Whateley, a shy, fearful woman who lives on the family farm.
Why does Wilbur Whateley want the Necronomicon?
He wants the book's occult knowledge to advance his family's work. The Whateleys seek to open a way for ancient beings from beyond the world.
How does Wilbur Whateley grow?
Wilbur grows unnaturally quickly, walking and speaking within months. By four, he looks like a boy of ten or more.
