Ethan Honey
Ethan Honey is the central character in This Other Eden by Paul Harding. Ethan is an optimistic, enterprising person and a talented artist. Unlike the other descendants of Benjamin Honey, Ethan has light skin, making him believe that he will be acceptable on the Maine mainland
After the eviction from Apple Island (Malaga), Ethan looks forward to undertaking his painting exhibitions on the Maine mainland. However, Ethan's future is uncertain, but his optimism and will to pursue his talent enables him to navigate the uncertainty in his life.
Benjamin Honey
Benjamin Honey is a former enslaved man who finds a new island and decides to settle there with his wife. Benjamin is hardworking and determined to provide for his family. Many years later, Malaga Island becomes racially diverse, and Benjamin Honey's descendants intermarry with other races. Unfortunately, the island is isolated and neglected by the mainland authorities. Therefore, the descendants of Benjamin Honey live in poverty.
Patience Honey
Patience is the wife of Benjamin Honey, a loving and caring woman who supports her husband in raising their family. Despite the harsh conditions, Patience remains enduring and encourages her husband that everything will be fine.
Esther Honey
Esther Honey is the mother of Ethan Honey. The author describes Esther as an intelligent woman who knows everything. However, Esther is haunted by her family's past, which hinders her productivity and progress.
Governor of Maine
The governor the leader of the Maine mainland, is described as evil, selfish, and biased. The governor intentionally neglects the residents of Malaga Island because they are Black. The government gives an eviction order, and all the people in Malaga Island are driven out, to pave the way for the construction of holiday homes and resorts.
