The Child in Time

Main Characters and Their Development

• Stephen Lewis - the main character of the book, a children's author who experiences tragedy after the disappearance of his daughter Kate. His development in the book is tied to his struggle with grief and search for meaning in life after the loss. He goes through various stages of acceptance and attempts to rebuild his life and relationship with his wife.
• Julie Lewis - Stephen's wife, who also suffers from the loss of their daughter. She distances herself from Stephen, and their marriage is put to the test. Throughout the book, she seeks her own paths to healing and understanding.
• Kate Lewis - the daughter of Stephen and Julie, whose disappearance is the central event of the book. Although she is physically absent, her influence on her parents' lives and their inner world remains significant.
• Charles Darker - a friend of Stephen who works in the government. His character shows the contrast between personal and professional life, as well as his own internal conflicts.
• Thelma - a friend of Stephen who retires and retreats to the countryside. Her character explores themes of time and childhood, as well as the impact of the past on the present.