Zora Kočović
Zora is an optimistic individual who has a strong attachment to her birthplace and its culture. She is a sturdy and powerful character who is also incredibly creative and determined. Throughout the narrative, she strives to make the best of a bad position, despite the war and the difficulties. During the battle, she finds peace in painting and drawing because she believes in the power of art. She is also an art professor who, despite the conflict, is determined to continue teaching and encouraging her students.
She is also a strong and independent woman who is not afraid to make unpleasant decisions. For example, when she decides to stay in Sarajevo despite the danger, she does not let fear dictate her decision. Similarly, she is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in such as when she protests against the decision to close the library. She is a supportive friend to her neighbor and even puts her safety in jeopardy to protect those around her. Zora is a loving daughter who is willing to do anything to ensure the safety of her elderly mother.
Franjo
Franjo is a former journalist, the father of Dubravka, and the husband of Zora. He is a gentle and smart man who is loved and respected by everyone in his family. He is a strong-willed man who is determined to stay in Sarajevo despite the war. He has a practical approach and knows how to deal with challenging situations. Franjo is a guy of few words, yet his presence is felt through his actions. He is constantly concerned about his family and tries to safeguard them.
When the violence in Sarajevo escalates, Franjo is the one who arranges for Dubravka, Stephen, and Ruby to evacuate to England and he ensures that Zora and his mother are secure in the flat. He also serves as a moral compass for the family, providing them with guidance and support when they need it. His love and devotion to his family are demonstrated when he takes a risk to go out and get food for Zora, despite the dangers of the war.
Zora's mother
Zora's mother is described as having "a wiry frame and a fierce determination. She is also very stoic and does not want to reveal her emotions. Despite her age, she demonstrates tremendous resilience during the Bosnian War. She is a woman of great faith, which acts as a source of strength during times of chaos and uncertainty. She is also a woman of strong convictions who speaks up for what she believes in.
When Zora expresses anxiety about the refugees who have taken up residence in their flat, her mother reminds her that they must be friendly and kind to them even though they are strangers. She also insists that Zora should stay in Sarajevo, despite the danger and difficulty, because she believes that it is the right thing to do and that Zora will eventually find her way. She is always looking out for the safety of her family and will do whatever it takes to protect them.
Dubravka
Dubravka is the daughter of Zora and Franjo, and she is married to an Englishman named Stephen and has a daughter named Ruby. She is the one Zora and Franjo go to see in England during the war and she serves as a reminder of life before the war and what it could become again. Dubravka represents hope for Zora since she is secure with her family and her presence serves as a reminder that the war-torn city of Sarajevo is not their entire reality.
Dubravka does her hardest to put her mother and father at rest, ensuring their safety and comfort in her home. She is a great listener and provides a shoulder to cry on for her family when things get difficult. She is also an incredibly talented cook and baker, often making her family meals from her homeland to remind them of their Sarajevo roots.
Stephen
Stephen is a character in the novel who is married to Zora's daughter, Dubravka. He is an Englishman who lives in England with his wife and daughter. Stephen is portrayed as a supportive and caring husband who is willing to do anything to protect his family. He takes his wife and daughter to England when war breaks out in Sarajevo and attempts to keep them safe from the conflict.
Stephen is patient and kind and even takes the time to learn Bosnian to communicate better with his in-laws. Stephen is a devoted father and provides financial support for his family. He is a loving partner who is always there for his wife, providing emotional and practical support during difficult times.
