Chalk

Chalk symbolizes the fragile beginnings from which a future witch can potentially emerge. Tiffany's homeland, called The Chalk, is thought to be a very unlikely place for a witch to come from; as one of the witches claims, witches need sturdy ground and "chalk's too soft to grow a witch on" (8).

However, chalk is made up of millions of creatures which existed in the area and now make up the land itself, and The Chalk itself is shown to be a place with a complex (and largely unknown) history. Likewise, Tiffany proves herself to be much more than an ordinary young girl, and made of stronger stuff than anyone realizes in the beginning.

Sheep

Sheep symbolize the ordinary people of the land who are completely unaware of the many worlds which exist.

Sheep have been guarded by the Aching family for generations, and live their lives...