The Famished Road

Characters

  • Azaro is the story's narrator. He is an abiku, or spirit child, who has never lost ties with the spirit world. He is named after Lazarus, of the New Testament. The story follows him as he tries to live his life, always aware of the spirits trying to bring him back.
  • Azaro's father is an idealistic load-carrier who wants the best for his family and the community. He suffers greatly for this, eventually becoming a boxer and later a politician. Azaro's father loves him deeply but is often bitter at having an abiku and occasionally goes on violent tirades.
  • Azaro's mother works very hard for the family, selling anything she can get her hands on. She cares for her family deeply and constantly gives up food and security for them and their ideals. She is proud that Azaro is her son and goes to great lengths to protect him.
  • Madame Koto is proprietress of a local bar. She has a liking for Azaro, though at times is convinced he brings bad luck. She starts out as a well-meaning woman, trying to get along with everyone else. However, as the story progresses, she becomes richer, siding with the political Party of the Rich, and is often accused of witchcraft. She tries to help Azaro and his family on numerous occasions but seems to try to take Azaro's blood to remain youthful.
  • Jeremiah the Photographer is a young artist who brings the village to the rest of the world and the rest of the world to the village. He manages to get some of his photographs published but practices his craft at great personal risk.
  • The Landlord supports the Party of the Rich and is angry with Azaro's family for causing troubles to him and his compound.

This content is from Wikipedia. GradeSaver is providing this content as a courtesy until we can offer a professionally written study guide by one of our staff editors. We do not consider this content professional or citable. Please use your discretion when relying on it.