The Secret Life of Bees

Main Characters and Their Development

• Lily Owens - the main protagonist, a fourteen-year-old girl burdened with guilt over her mother's accidental death. Throughout the book, she seeks answers about her mother and finds them in the Boatwright sisters' home. Lily evolves from an insecure and lost girl into a strong and independent young woman.
• August Boatwright - one of the three Boatwright sisters, the owner of the bee farm. She becomes a mentor and mother figure to Lily. August helps Lily understand and accept herself, teaching her the importance of love and forgiveness.
• Rosaleen - Lily's Black housekeeper and nanny, who becomes her friend and protector. Rosaleen accompanies Lily on her journey and helps her find her place in the world.
• June Boatwright - one of the Boatwright sisters, a teacher and musician. Initially skeptical of Lily, she eventually comes to accept and support her.
• May Boatwright - the youngest of the Boatwright sisters, who suffers from depression due to the loss of loved ones. Her tragic fate deeply impacts all the characters and helps Lily understand the importance of family and support.