A Prayer for Owen Meany Book Summary

A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving is a novel that follows the life of John Wheelwright and his childhood friend, Owen Meany. Set during the 1960s in Gravesend, New Hampshire, the book explores themes of friendship, religion, and identity.

The novel begins with the accidental death of John’s mother, which plays a significant role throughout the entire story. A young Owen Meany accidentally kills John’s mother with a foul ball during a Little League game, which he believes is no coincidence due to his religious beliefs.

As the story progresses, John and Owen grow up together and eventually make plans to attend the University of New Hampshire. However, Owen is convinced that he is going to die at a specific time and place, leading to a dramatic climax at the end of the book.

The story is told from John Wheelwright’s perspective and follows his journey of self-discovery, as he comes to terms with his own identity and beliefs. Throughout the book, John is deeply influenced by Owen’s unwavering faith and exceptional intelligence, and their friendship serves as a driving force behind the story’s themes.

Themes:

Christianity and faith

American identity and patriotism

Friendship and loyalty

Identity and self-discovery

The novel has been praised for its complex characters and profound themes. It has also been adapted into a successful stage play and a film adaptation is currently in development.

• If you’re a fan of literary fiction, A Prayer for Owen Meany is a must-read.
• The book is a masterful study of friendship and faith that will keep you engaged until the very end.
• Highly recommended for readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories and philosophical musings.

A Prayer for Owen Meany is a powerful and emotionally charged novel that remains a classic in contemporary literature.

Character Analysis

The characters in A Prayer for Owen Meany play significant roles in the story and have distinct personalities that contribute to the narrative.

The protagonist, John Wheelwright, is the narrator and a key character in the plot. He is a sensitive and introspective man who spends much of the story trying to understand his identity and faith. John’s friendship with Owen Meany is the driving force behind the story, and his character arc focuses on his growth and development throughout the novel.

Owen Meany, the titular character, is a small, odd-looking boy with a high-pitched voice and a profound sense of purpose. He believes that he is an instrument of God’s will and works tirelessly to fulfill his divine mission. Despite his small stature, Owen possesses immense strength and courage. His character is both tragic and heroic, and his presence in the story is felt long after the book ends.

Hester Eastman is John’s grandmother and a significant figure in his life. She is an independent woman who challenges John’s assumptions about religion and morality. Her character provides a sharp contrast to some of the more conservative members of the community and serves as an example of what it means to live an unconventional life.

Dan Needham is John’s stepfather and a mentor to Owen Meany. He is a kind, compassionate man who encourages John to pursue his passions and offers valuable guidance throughout the story. Dan’s role in the plot is central to the development of several key characters, and his presence in the story is felt long after he passes away.

The minor characters in the book, such as Mr. Fish, Lydia, and Barb Wiggins, all play significant roles in the story. Their interactions with John and Owen help to develop the characters and push the plot forward. Each character in the book is unique and serves a specific purpose in the narrative.

the characters in A Prayer for Owen Meany are complex, multidimensional, and unforgettable. Their interactions with each other, their struggles, and their triumphs all contribute to a powerful and moving story that resonates with readers long after the book ends.

John Wheelwright

John Wheelwright is the protagonist of the novel ‘A Prayer for Owen Meany’. The story is narrated by him, and it revolves around his memories of his childhood friendship with Owen Meany.

John is the illegitimate son of Tabitha Wheelwright and a soldier who was stationed in Gravesend, New Hampshire, during World War II. He grows up with his grandmother in Gravesend, where he meets Owen Meany, who becomes his lifelong best friend.

One of the defining characteristics of John’s personality is his agnosticism. He overthinks religious beliefs and is unable to find meaning in traditional forms of worship. This is in stark contrast to Owen Meany, who is a staunch believer in God and feels destined for a religious mission.

John’s character is also marked by his loyalty to Owen. Despite Owen’s strange behavior and quirks, John always stands by him. This loyalty is put to the test when Owen accidentally kills John’s mother while playing a game of baseball.

Another aspect of John’s personality is his complex relationship with his family. He harbors feelings of guilt and resentment towards his father, whom he never met. He is also estranged from his mother, who left him and his grandmother when he was a child.

Throughout the novel, John undergoes a transformation. He gradually sheds his agnosticism and becomes more open to religious experiences, thanks in part to Owen’s influence. He also comes to terms with his family history and reconciles with his mother before she dies.

• John Wheelwright’s character in ‘A Prayer for Owen Meany’ is complex and multifaceted.
• He is an agnostic who struggles to find meaning in traditional forms of worship.
• He is fiercely loyal to his best friend Owen Meany, despite his peculiar behavior.
• He has a complex relationship with his family and undergoes a transformation throughout the novel.

Owen Meany

Owen Meany is the central character in A Prayer for Owen Meany, and he is an unusual person from the start. One of his most distinctive features is his high-pitched voice, which he believes is a sign of divine inspiration. Owen is also notably smaller than most other boys his age, making him an easy target for ridicule and bullying. However, he is also incredibly intelligent and possesses an unwavering sense of purpose.

Despite his physical limitations, Owen is remarkably talented, particularly when it comes to baseball. He has an obsession with the sport and believes that he is destined for greatness on the field. However, his true purpose is something much bigger, and he spends much of his life trying to fulfill the prophecy that he believes has been laid out for him.

Owen’s role in the book is to serve as a catalyst for John’s personal growth and to bring attention to larger themes of faith, destiny, and sacrifice. He is a symbol of hope and inspiration for those around him, and his unwavering faith in his destiny is both admirable and tragic. But, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Owen’s fate is not entirely in his own hands, and his ultimate sacrifice serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of the human condition.

Owen Meany is a complex and compelling character who leaves a lasting impact on readers. His unwavering faith and determination make him a compelling figure, and his ultimate sacrifice serves as a poignant reminder of the power of love and sacrifice.

Analysis

A Prayer for Owen Meany is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that delves into many complex themes and messages. One of the primary themes explored in the book is the role of religion in society and individual lives. The novel uses various characters to highlight the significance of faith and spirituality, particularly in a time of great change and uncertainty.

Another central theme in the book is American identity. The novel explores the idea of what it means to be American and how this identity can be challenged and transformed over time. This theme is closely linked to the book’s commentary on patriotism, as it reflects on the ways in which national identity and pride can both unite and divide people.

In addition, A Prayer for Owen Meany also examines topics such as fate, friendship, family, and the power of memories. Through its unique and compelling narrative style, the book effectively conveys a sense of nostalgia, reflecting on the past while also urging the reader to consider the present and future.

these themes and messages are masterfully interwoven into the story of John Wheelwright and Owen Meany, creating a rich and complex novel that has captivated readers for decades. The power of Irving’s writing lies in his ability to tackle serious and challenging topics in a way that is both engaging and accessible.

Religion

Religion plays a significant role in A Prayer for Owen Meany. Throughout the book, there are several religious references and themes that serve as major plot points. The story’s main character, Owen Meany, is convinced that he is an instrument of God, and his unique voice, which is always in capital letters, serves as a divine message. This theme of divine intervention and spiritual purpose runs consistently throughout the book.

Furthermore, there are several biblical references throughout the book such as the story of the Nativity, which are retold by Owen in his unique way, and the crucifixion of Jesus, which serves as a central symbol. The idea of sacrifice is also explored through the story’s themes, with Owen ultimately giving his life for a purpose he believes is ordained by God.

The book’s religious themes also extend to the political and social realm. Through the character of John, the book explores the complicated relationship between religion and politics, particularly in America. John, as a skeptical observer, questions the patriotism and unquestioning nature of his fellow Americans.

The book also raises questions about the church’s role in society, especially in terms of social justice. Owen and John’s interactions with their church raise critical questions about the church’s limitations, privileges, and responsibilities.

religion is an essential element of A Prayer for Owen Meany, and the book explores its complexities, pushing readers to question their own beliefs and attitudes towards religion.

American identity

The book A Prayer for Owen Meany is not just a coming-of-age story, it is also a commentary on American patriotism and identity. Through its portrayal of several characters, the book raises questions about what it means to be an American and how that identity is defined.

John Wheelwright, the book’s protagonist, struggles with his own identity as an American throughout the story. He questions the morality of the Vietnam War and ultimately becomes disillusioned with his country as a result. This reflects a common sentiment among many Americans during the time period in which the book is set.

Owen Meany, on the other hand, is a character who embodies American patriotism. He is fiercely loyal to his country and shows this through his actions, such as when he saves a group of Vietnamese refugees. However, the book also critiques blind patriotism and suggests that blind loyalty to a country can be dangerous.

A Prayer for Owen Meany raises important questions about American identity and patriotism. It shows that there is no one way to define what it means to be an American and that blind patriotism can be harmful. By questioning traditional views of American identity, the book encourages readers to think critically about their own beliefs and values.

Reviews

A Prayer for Owen Meany has received widespread critical acclaim and has been praised by many notable reviewers. Let’s take a look at some of the most notable reviews and critiques of the book.

The New York Times called the book “a masterpiece,” praising it for its “combination of wit, imagination, and social commentary.” They also lauded Irving’s ability to create complex and multi-dimensional characters, particularly in the case of Owen Meany, who they describe as “one of the most unforgettable characters in contemporary literature.”

The Guardian also had high praise for the book, calling it “a work of genius” and “one of the great American novels of the past 50 years.” They specifically highlighted Irving’s use of humor and his ability to create a sense of nostalgia and longing for a bygone era.

• Washington Post: “A powerful meditation on faith, fate, and the importance of personal responsibility.”
• Los Angeles Times: “A deeply moving novel with a cast of unforgettable characters.”
• Chicago Tribune: “A stunning work of fiction that transcends genre and defies easy categorization.”

A Prayer for Owen Meany has been widely praised for its themes of faith, fate, friendship, and American identity. It has been hailed as one of the great American novels of the past century and continues to be studied and discussed by literary scholars and readers alike.

New York Times Review

The New York Times review of A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving lauds the novel as a masterpiece of American fiction. The reviewer praises the novel’s unique style, clever use of metaphors, and powerful themes of faith and destiny. The central character of Owen Meany is described as a captivating figure who leaves a lasting impression on readers.

The review also notes that A Prayer for Owen Meany touches on several issues that were relevant during the time of the book’s publication, such as the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. The novel is seen as an important commentary on the state of American society in the 1980s and beyond.

The reviewer particularly commends Irving’s skill in creating a highly complex and well-developed plot that takes readers on an emotional journey of self-discovery. The themes of sacrifice, forgiveness, and the search for purpose are expertly woven together to create a deeply moving and thought-provoking narrative.

the New York Times review of A Prayer for Owen Meany is a glowing tribute to the novel’s literary merit and cultural significance. It is clear that this book is not just a timeless classic, but also an important piece of American literature that continues to resonate with readers today.

The Guardian Review

The Guardian’s review of A Prayer for Owen Meany praised Irving for his ability to capture the essence of childhood and the experience of growing up in America. The review applauded the author’s use of symbols and metaphors throughout the book, particularly in relation to Owen Meany’s unique voice and personal struggles. The book’s exploration of themes such as religion, American identity, and the Vietnam War were also highlighted as strengths of the novel.

The review did note, however, that some readers may find the book’s length and slow pacing to be tedious at times. the book’s heavy reliance on religious symbolism and themes may not sit well with all readers.

The Guardian’s review of A Prayer for Owen Meany was positive, recognizing Irving’s talent for crafting complex characters and exploring weighty themes through their experiences. The book’s ability to capture the spirit of a specific time and place in American history was also noted as a major strength.

Details

“A Prayer for Owen Meany” is a novel written by American author John Irving and was first published in 1989. Irving is a renowned American novelist who has published several critically acclaimed books. He was born in Exeter, New Hampshire, in 1942, and later on attended the University of New Hampshire.

The original publishers of the book was William Morrow, an American publishing company. The book was initially published in hardcover format, and it is currently available in hardcover, paperback, and e-book formats. In 1990, the book was re-released as a mass market paperback edition.

The novel is set in the 1950s and 1960s and is narrated by John Wheelwright. It is a story about friendship, destiny, fate, and faith. The book explores themes of religion, social justice, and identity. The novel features several prominent characters, including John Wheelwright, the novel’s protagonist, and Owen Meany, the titular character.

The book has been widely recognized for its excellent storytelling, character development, and innovative use of literary devices. It has been listed as one of the “100 Best English-Language Novels of the 20th Century” by the editorial board of the Modern Library, and it was also the recipient of the National Book Award for Fiction in 1989.

“A Prayer for Owen Meany” has been translated into several languages, including German, French, Spanish, and Chinese. It has been adapted into a stage play and an audiobook. The novel’s popularity has only grown over time, and it continues to be one of the most beloved and influential novels of the modern era.

Author Background

John Irving is an American novelist and screenwriter born on March 2, 1942, in Exeter, New Hampshire. Irving attended Exeter Academy, where his stepfather taught Russian history and literature. After graduating, he attended the University of New Hampshire for a year before transferring to the University of Iowa, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in English.

During his time at Iowa, Irving studied under Kurt Vonnegut, who had a significant influence on his writing. Irving’s first novel, “Setting Free the Bears,” was published in 1968, but it wasn’t until the publication of “The World According to Garp” in 1978 that he gained widespread acclaim. The book was a critical and commercial success, winning the National Book Award and earning Irving a loyal following of readers.

Irving’s writing is known for its complex narratives and unusual characters, as well as its exploration of themes such as identity, family, and the complexities of human relationships. He has written several bestsellers, including “A Prayer for Owen Meany,” “The Cider House Rules,” and “The Hotel New Hampshire,” which have been translated into over 35 languages.

In addition to his writing career, Irving has also worked as a professor of English at several universities, including Mount Holyoke College and the University of Iowa. He has also been involved in the film industry, adapting several of his novels for the screen.

Irving has received many awards and honors for his writing, including an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for “The Cider House Rules” and a lifetime achievement award from the National Book Foundation. Today, he continues to write and publish novels, keeping his readers eager for his next masterpiece.

Publication History

A Prayer for Owen Meany was first published in 1989 by William Morrow and Company. The book was John Irving’s seventh novel and quickly became one of his most well-known works. It was originally published in hardcover and was well-received by critics and readers alike. The book was later released in paperback form in 1990, allowing it to reach a wider audience.

Over the years, A Prayer for Owen Meany has been reprinted multiple times and has been translated into numerous languages. In 2003, a special 15th-anniversary edition of the book was released, which included a new introduction by John Irving. The book has also been adapted into a successful stage production.

The book’s initial success sparked interest from Hollywood, resulting in multiple attempts to adapt the book into a film. However, John Irving reportedly turned down all offers, as he was hesitant to see his work distorted or watered down for a mass audience.

The publication history of A Prayer for Owen Meany reveals a book that was well-received from the start and has only grown in popularity over the years. Its unique blend of themes and complex characters have made it a beloved classic in modern literature.

News about A Prayer for Owen Meany

If you’re a fan of A Prayer for Owen Meany, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s been some recent news about the book and its author. Here are some highlights:

• John Irving, the author of A Prayer for Owen Meany, was recently announced as the recipient of the 2020 Dayton Literary Peace Prize’s Richard C. Holbrooke Distinguished Achievement Award. Irving was honored for his “body of work and lifetime mission to explore the twin themes of personal responsibility and social justice”.

This prestigious award is given each year to a writer or artist whose work uses storytelling to promote peace, social justice, and global understanding. Previous recipients of the award include Barbara Kingsolver, Elie Wiesel, and Gloria Steinem.

• There has been some talk recently of adapting A Prayer for Owen Meany into a film or TV series. While there’s nothing official yet, fans have been speculating about who might be cast in the leading roles and how the book’s themes would translate to the screen.

While there’s always a risk that adaptations won’t do justice to the source material, fans of A Prayer for Owen Meany are hopeful that any adaptation will stay true to the book’s heart and soul.

• In 2019, the National Book Foundation announced that A Prayer for Owen Meany would be one of the books featured in their “Book Rich Environments” program. This program aims to provide access to books in communities where they may be scarce or difficult to come by.

Through this program, A Prayer for Owen Meany was distributed to over 8,000 children in Detroit, Houston, and Washington D.C., helping to promote literacy and a love of reading in underserved communities.

Source	Date	Headline
The Dayton Daily News	April 2020	Dayton Literary Peace Prize announces 2020 winners
Deadline	March 2019	John Irving’s ‘A Prayer For Owen Meany’ To Be Part Of National Book Foundation’s ‘Book Rich Environments’ Initiative

As you can see, A Prayer for Owen Meany continues to be a beloved book that inspires and moves readers around the world.

John Irving to receive literary prize

Exciting news for fans of John Irving’s masterpiece, A Prayer for Owen Meany! The renowned author will be receiving the Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters, a prestigious literary prize awarded by the National Book Foundation.

The ceremony will take place in November, and Irving will join the ranks of previous award winners such as Toni Morrison, Philip Roth, and Don DeLillo. The Medal is given to authors for their lifetime achievement in the world of literature, and Irving’s remarkable body of work will be recognized with this honor.

It is fitting that Irving should receive this award for A Prayer for Owen Meany in particular, as the book has been widely regarded as one of the most significant works of American literature in recent years. Published in 1989, the novel has since become a beloved classic and has consistently been included in lists of the greatest novels of the 20th century.

Irving’s writing has always been known for its depth and intelligence, and his creation of Owen Meany is one of the most remarkable examples of this. The titular character is a tiny but powerful figure whose impact on the lives of those around him is immense. The novel is a profound exploration of faith, fate, and the mysteries of life, and it has touched the hearts of millions of readers around the world.

• Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters to be awarded to John Irving
• Ceremony to take place in November
• Irving to join esteemed company of past award winners such as Toni Morrison and Philip Roth
• A Prayer for Owen Meany widely regarded as one of the most significant works of American literature in recent years

Congratulations to John Irving on this well-deserved recognition of his contributions to the world of literature!

Ratings

A Prayer for Owen Meany has received high praise and ratings on various literary platforms. Here are some of the book’s ratings:

• Goodreads: The book has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars based on over 195,000 ratings.
• Amazon: On Amazon, the book has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on over 1,900 ratings.

These high ratings come as no surprise as the book is regarded as one of John Irving’s most popular and best works. Readers have often praised the book’s emotional storytelling, complex characters, and vivid descriptions of the time period.

Many readers have noted that the book has a slow start but picks up speed as the narrative progresses, making it a compelling read overall. The book’s themes of faith, sacrifice, and social struggle have also been praised by readers and critics alike.

If you are a fan of literary fiction, it’s clear that A Prayer for Owen Meany will not disappoint. With its high ratings and widespread critical acclaim, it is a must-read book that is sure to leave a lasting impression on its readers.

Goodreads

According to Goodreads, A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving has an average rating of 4.17 out of 5.0, based on over 220,000 ratings and more than 11,000 reviews. It ranks as the 79th most popular book on the site, and is highly regarded by many of its users.

Readers frequently praise the book’s intricate plot, the well-developed characters, and the thought-provoking themes. Some also commented that Irving’s writing style adds to the story’s charm. Many reviewers specifically mention the unique character of Owen Meany as a standout feature of the book, praising his intelligence, wit, and various quirks.

Although most of the reviews are positive, some readers found the book too long or slow-paced, and a few found some of the characters to be unlikable. However, the overall consensus is that A Prayer for Owen Meany is a masterful work of fiction that is well worth the read.

If you’re looking for a book that will make you think, laugh, and possibly even shed a tear, then A Prayer for Owen Meany is definitely worth checking out. Its high ratings on Goodreads are a testament to its popularity and appeal among readers. So why not give it a try and see for yourself what all the hype is about?

Amazon

When looking at the book’s ratings on Amazon, the reception is generally positive. A total of 4.5 stars out of 5 has been awarded to the book, based on over 1,000 customer reviews. Many readers have praised the deeply emotional and thought-provoking nature of the story, as well as the way in which Irving weaves together themes such as friendship, faith, and sacrifice.

However, a few readers have criticized the book for being slow-paced in parts or overly sentimental. Nonetheless, most agreed that the book is a moving and powerful work of literature that will stick with readers long after they’ve finished the final page.

Some reviewers have also commented on the visual appeal of the book, with its striking cover artwork and compact size making it a beautiful addition to any bookshelf. Many readers have praised the high-quality paper and printing of the book, making it a pleasure to read.

the book has received overwhelmingly positive reviews on Amazon, making it a must-read for anyone interested in literary fiction.

Book Notes

If you are looking for some study aids for “A Prayer for Owen Meany”, look no further than these comprehensive book notes. These notes cover all the important aspects of the book, including the characters, plot, themes, and important quotes.

Firstly, we have chapter summaries that provide a brief overview of each chapter’s events, allowing you to reacquaint yourself with the story before diving into more detailed analysis. We have also compiled a character list that provides a detailed description of each character’s personality traits and actions in the book.

For a more in-depth analysis, we have included a section devoted to analyzing the book’s themes. This section includes an examination of the religious references and themes found throughout the book, as well as a discussion of the book’s commentary on American patriotism and identity.

If you are looking for some specific quotes from the book to support your analysis or to use in your essays, we have also compiled a list of important quotes from “A Prayer for Owen Meany.” These quotes cover a range of themes, from religion to friendship, and provide valuable insights into the story.

these book notes serve as an excellent resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of “A Prayer for Owen Meany” and are essential for any high school or college students studying the book. So, be sure to use these notes as a study aid to ace your next exam or to simply appreciate the book even more.

Chapter Summaries

The book, “A Prayer for Owen Meany,” is divided into eleven chapters and an epilogue. Each chapter reveals important pieces of the story, bringing the plot to a climax that resolves in the final chapter. Below are brief summaries of each chapter:

• Chapter One: In the first chapter, the narrator John Wheelwright introduces himself and his best friend, Owen Meany. He also shares memories of his childhood in Gravesend, New Hampshire.
• Chapter Two: In this chapter, John and Owen attend a Christmas pageant where Owen plays the baby Jesus. During the pageant, Owen hits John’s mother, Tabby, in the head with a baseball and kills her.
• Chapter Three: The third chapter is set in the future, describing John’s life as an adult in Toronto. He reflects on his past and describes how Owen’s death affected him.
• Chapter Four: In this chapter, John and Owen investigate a mysterious metallic object in the granite quarry, and Owen believes he has discovered his destiny.
• Chapter Five: Owen takes an IQ test and scores a perfect 195. This chapter also introduces the character of Hester Eastman, who becomes an important figure in Owen and John’s lives.
• Chapter Six: This chapter is set during John and Owen’s high school years. Owen makes a shocking statement during a school event that gains national attention.
• Chapter Seven: John begins keeping a journal in this chapter, where he documents his experiences with Owen and their ongoing investigation into the metallic object.
• Chapter Eight: The eighth chapter reveals the truth about the metallic object, which changes Owen’s life forever. John also discovers important information about his own family history.
• Chapter Nine: Hester Eastman plays a larger role in this chapter, revealing her own tragic past. Owen further pursues his destiny and attempts to improve the life of a local orphanage.
• Chapter Ten: This chapter focuses on John and his relationship with his grandmother, who has dementia. Owen further solidifies his belief in his destiny and takes significant action towards it.
• Chapter Eleven: In the final chapter, Owen’s destiny is revealed and the truth about his remarkable life comes to light. John reflects on his own beliefs and experiences, as well as those of his best friend.

the chapter summaries provide insight into the progression of the plot and the development of the characters. Each chapter plays a vital role in the overall story, creating elements of surprise and keeping the reader entertained from beginning to end.

Character List

The following is a list of all the major characters in the novel, along with a brief description of each:

• John Wheelwright – The narrator and protagonist of the novel. John is a former Episcopalian who has renounced his religion and become a schoolteacher. He is prone to self-doubt and obsession, but is ultimately a sympathetic character who cares deeply about his friend Owen Meany.
• Owen Meany – The titular character of the novel. Owen is a small, strange boy with a high-pitched voice who believes he is an instrument of God. Despite his unconventional appearance and beliefs, Owen is a loyal and brave friend to John.
• Dan Needham – John’s stepfather and Owen’s mentor. Dan is a kind-hearted man who serves as a stabilizing influence in the lives of both John and Owen.
• Hester Eastman – John’s mother, whom he despises. Hester is a self-absorbed woman who is more concerned with her social status than with her son’s well-being.
• Tabitha Wheelwright – John’s grandmother and a devout Episcopalian. Tabitha dotes on John and is horrified by his rejection of religion.
• Rev. Lewis Merrill – The rector of John and Owen’s church, who believes that Owen is a miracle.
• Barb Wiggin – A schoolteacher who has an affair with John and eventually becomes his wife. Barb is practical, no-nonsense, and fiercely loyal.
• Harriet Wheelwright – John’s great-aunt and a wealthy society matron. Harriet is cold and ruthless, and disapproves of John’s relationship with Owen.

These are the main characters featured in the novel. Although there are several other minor characters who appear throughout the course of the story, these individuals are the ones who have the greatest impact on John and Owen’s lives. Understanding their motivations, personalities, and relationships is essential for comprehending the novel’s themes and messages.