Kensuke and Michael come from entirely different cultures, generations and backgrounds. Yet they build a deep and genuine friendship through patience, shared activity and mutual respect.
Kensuke's grief for his family and his decision to remain on the island are direct consequences of the Second World War. Morpurgo presents war as something that leaves wounds lasting a lifetime.
Kensuke has chosen isolation rather than face a world changed by war. Michael's arrival breaks through that isolation. Both characters belong to different worlds but find belonging together.
Michael's survival on the island — first alone, then with Kensuke's help — is a story of physical and emotional resilience.
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