I make castles that vanish, but I do not make washing up easy. People often watch the flow of time with me.

I start and I end, yet I’m part of a tale, I follow the story, though sometimes I fail. I’m numbered or named, I turn with each page, I mark a new moment, a scene, or a stage.

To capture me is a child's game. To play for me is a sportsman's game. To plant me is a politician's game. What am I?

I’m stacked in the kitchen and stacked in the bank, I rise when I’m needed - you’ve got me to thank. Some break me for meals, some chase me instead, I’m daily, I’m doughy, I’m better when spread.

I come in books and boxes. My head comes in different colors. Take me out and scratch my head, better be quick before I’m dead. What am I?