Alice
Alice is a devoted wife, mother, and daughter living in the present day. Her character represents a modern woman navigating the complexities of family life. She spends most of her time caring for her son, Eddie, who has autism while supporting her husband and caring for her aging parents. This constant juggling of responsibilities can leave her feeling stressed and overwhelmed. However, when her grandmother Hannah becomes ill and implores Alice to uncover a long-held secret from her past, Alice's character expands as she embarks on an unexpected journey to Poland. This journey challenges Alice, causing her to rethink her priorities and gain a deeper appreciation for her family's history and resilience.
Eddie
Eddie is Alice's son, a child with autism. He doesn't speak, which initially seems like a barrier, but as the novel progresses, we see how Eddie communicates uniquely. Eddie's character not only provides a sensitive portrayal of living with autism but also symbolizes the importance and challenge of communication. His presence in the novel highlights the theme of "things we cannot say" and how, even without words, there are other powerful forms of expression.
Hannah
Hannah is Alice's ailing grandmother, a woman who has kept her traumatic past hidden for decades. In her youth, she endured the horrors of World War II in Poland but has always kept her experiences to herself, encapsulating the novel's theme of unspeakable experiences. As she nears the end of her life, Hannah yearns for resolution and for her story to be known. This prompts her to send Alice on a journey of discovery that spans continents and generations, showcasing Hannah's past resilience and shaping Alice's understanding of her family.
Alina
Alina's narrative takes place during World War II in Poland. She is an adolescent with hopes and dreams centered around her love for her best friend, Tomasz. However, the war drastically alters her life, leading to loss, fear, and profound changes in her circumstances. As Alina's story unfolds, we see her strength and determination despite facing adversity. Her experiences represent the experiences of countless individuals whose lives were irrevocably altered by war, offering a deeply personal perspective on the broader historical events.
Tomasz
Tomasz is Alina's love interest and an aspiring medical student. When the war interrupts his plans for a future with Alina, Tomasz exhibits immense bravery and resilience. Despite the dangerous and often hopeless circumstances, he remains dedicated to protecting Alina and his family. His character is a testament to human resilience and the lengths one can go to protect loved ones, even when faced with immense adversity.
