In 'the secret river novel', aside from William Thornhill, there are his fellow settlers. People like Smasher Sullivan who also have an impact on the events. They are important in depicting the different types of settlers, some more brutal and some more complex in their relationships with the Aboriginal people and the new land.
There is Sal Thornhill, William's wife. She plays an important role in the family's life in the new land. Also, the Aboriginal characters are important. Although they may not be as prominently named as the settlers in some ways, they are crucial in showing the other side of the story, the side of those whose land is being invaded.
The two brothers are very important characters. They have different personalities and yet are bound by family ties. And of course, their father, who has a strong influence on them. His values and teachings shape the brothers' lives in many ways.
There is usually a protagonist who drives the story forward. Maybe a detective or an ordinary person who gets involved in a complex situation. And there are likely to be supporting characters like the love interest of the protagonist, friends or colleagues who help or hinder the protagonist in their journey.
Lily Owens is a very important character. She is the protagonist, and the whole story revolves around her journey of self - discovery. August Boatwright is also crucial. She is a beekeeper and serves as a kind of mentor and mother figure to Lily. And then there's Rosaleen, who is Lily's caregiver and friend. Her actions and her relationship with Lily drive parts of the plot.
Rosaleen is also important. She is Lily's caregiver of sorts. She is a strong - willed African - American woman who stands up for herself against the racists in their town, which sets off a chain of events that leads to Lily's journey to the Boatwright sisters' place.
Lily Owens is a very important character. She is the protagonist, and the whole story revolves around her journey of self - discovery. August Boatwright is also important. She is a strong, independent woman who takes Lily in and teaches her about beekeeping and life. Then there is Rosaleen, Lily's caregiver. She is a black woman who stands up against racism and is a source of support for Lily.
In 'Secret Life of Bees Novel', Lily Owens is key. She is a young girl who drives the plot forward with her search for her mother. August Boatwright is significant as she runs the beekeeping business and provides a haven for Lily. There's also Zach, a young man who becomes an important part of Lily's life. His presence adds another dimension to the story, especially in relation to race and friendship.
Mary Lennox is an important character. She is a young girl who is sent to live at Misselthwaite Manor after her parents die. Then there's Dickon. He has a special connection with nature and helps Mary with the secret garden. Colin is also crucial. He is a sickly boy who is transformed by the magic of the secret garden.
There's Mary Lennox, a complex character who evolves throughout the story. Her discovery of the garden sets in motion many of the events. Dickon, with his love for nature and his gentle spirit, is an important presence. He helps bring the garden back to life. Colin Craven, a boy with a lot of emotional and physical problems, is also vital. His relationship with Mary and the garden is what helps him overcome his issues. Mrs. Medlock, the housekeeper, while not as positive as the others, is also an important character as she sets the tone in the manor at the beginning of the story.
The magic gourd itself can be considered an important 'character' in a way. It has its own power and rules for granting wishes. It is the central element that drives the story forward.
I'm not entirely sure as I haven't read the novel in great detail, but there must be some local farmers who are central to the story. They would be involved in the harvest home activities and probably hold some of the secrets.