A Town Like Alice characters

Appears from the start

An elderly London solicitor who narrates the story. He administered James McFadden's affairs and becomes trustee of the fortune left to Jean Paget. Formal and initially cautious, he develops a paternal concern for Jean while retaining legal control of most of her capital under the terms of the will.

Appears from the start

A young Englishwoman who works in a London office after surviving the Japanese occupation of Malaya. She unexpectedly becomes the beneficiary of an uncle's substantial estate, though the trust permits her only the income until she is older. Practical, independent, and accustomed to responsibility, she is more interested in what the money can accomplish than in luxury.

Appears from the start

Noel Strachan's wealthy Scottish client and Jean Paget's uncle. Having formed rigid views about young women and money, he leaves Jean the income from his estate but places the capital in trust until she reaches an age at which he believes she will use it responsibly.

First appears in chapter 2

Jean's brother, who made his life on a rubber plantation in Malaya before the Japanese invasion. His family gives Jean a home in the years before the war, placing her among the British civilians caught by the occupation.

First appears in chapter 4

An Australian cattleman from the remote Gulf Country, captured while serving in Malaya and put to work driving for the Japanese. He meets the wandering party of women and children and quietly brings them food and news. His humor, resourcefulness, and concern for Jean make him a rare ally during the occupation.

First appears in chapter 5

The Japanese officer responsible for the area where Joe works. When stolen supplies are traced back to Joe's efforts to help the civilian women, Sugamo orders a public and nearly fatal punishment intended to establish his authority.