Ned, A quiet, introspective boy growing up on his family’s apple orchard in northern Tasmania during WWII. At fifteen, he spends his summer hunting rabbits to sell their pelts so he can buy a boat. His story explores themes of responsibility, longing, and connection to nature. Later, the novel traces his life as a husband and father, marked by memories of that formative summer., Mr West, A war-damaged widower who runs the family property. He is emotionally distant and difficult for Ned to understand, embodying stoicism and the lingering effects of past trauma., Maggie, Returns from Hobart during the summer to help on the orchard. She is strong-willed and preoccupied, often critical the main character, which deepens his yearning for approval., Jackbird, Provides companionship and lightness in the main character'slife. Their friendship offers moments of escape from the weight of family expectations., Callie, The novel's romantic interest, symbolising change and the inevitability of growing up., Bill and Toby, The main character's older brothers; Their absence casts a shadow over the family and heightens the main character’s sense of isolation and responsibility., The rich man, Buys the main character's beloved boat and signals change, aging, and the relinquishing of youthful dreams., The Vet, Helps the main character with the injured quoll. She embodies compassion and practical knowledge, reinforcing the novel’s focus on care for living things and the intersection between human and animal worlds.

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