A paper fortune teller (also called a cootie catcher, a chatterbox, a salt cellar, or a whilybird) is a form of origami used typically used in children's games. Parts of the fortune teller are labelled with colors or numbers that serve as options for a player to choose from and, on the inside are eight flaps, each concealing a message. The person operating the fortune teller manipulates the device based on the choices made by the player, and finally one of the hidden messages is revealed. These messages may purport to answer questions (hence the name) or they may be activities that the player must perform.
One of these is seen in Recess in the episode "Gus' Fortune", this particular paper fortune teller was blown off the ship, Strange Destiny, and it was picked up by The Recess Gang, despite protests from Butch. While T.J., Spinelli and Gretchen got good fortunes, Gus got an unfortunate one that told him that he only has two days to live. At first, the fortunes are believed to be true, but are soon disproved, but not before Gus deploys his newest invention, the Gelminator 6000. In the end, the fortune teller is ripped up, never to cause trouble again.
Appearance and Traits[]
It is just a regular fortune teller, but amidst all the promises of riches and posterity, an unfortunate fortune can rear its ugly head and cause some psychological impact, particularly if the other fortunes are seemingly proved right.
Trivia[]
- Another fortune teller similar to this one may have been picked up by Stinky Peterson.