Jean Paget
The story's protagonist, Jean, is a young Englishwoman who becomes a prisoner of war in Malaya during World War II. She shows incredible resilience and leadership in helping women and children survive a forced march across Malaya. After the war, she inherited a fortune and moved to Australia to build a town and create opportunities for the local people. Jean's character is marked by strength, resourcefulness, and kindness, and she represents the possibility of overcoming adversity to build a better life.
Joe Harman
An Australian soldier who becomes a prisoner of war in Malaya, Joe meets Jean when the Japanese capture him. Despite the harsh conditions, he helps Jean and her group by stealing food, leading to his being beaten and presumed dead. Joe survives and returns to Australia, where he eventually reunites with Jean. Joe embodies the themes of courage, survival, and the enduring spirit of the Australian Outback.
Noel Strachan
An elderly solicitor in London, Strachan is the trustee of Jean's inheritance. He takes a paternal interest in Jean's welfare and helps her realize her dream of creating a town in Australia. Strachan's character represents the older generation, and his cautious, pragmatic approach contrasts with Jean's youthful energy and ambition.
Mrs. Horsefall
A member of Jean's group during their march across Malaya, Mrs. Horsefall is an older woman who becomes a source of conflict. Unlike Jean, she struggles to adapt to the harsh conditions and often clashes with the other women. Mrs. Horsefall's character symbolizes the difficulty of maintaining civility and order in the face of extreme adversity.
Sergeant-Major Tsaukamotoni
A Japanese soldier who oversees the prisoners of war in Malaya, Sergeant-Major Tsaukamotoni represents the cruelty and inhumanity of war. Despite his role, he shows a measure of respect for Jean's courage and leadership.
