Courage Mountain

A devoted young man serving in the army who cares for Heidi from afar. Resourceful and courageous, he becomes a critical ally who risks danger to ensure the girls’ safety and ultimately saves them from a deadly trap on the mountain.

Headmistress at Brookings School for Girls, she champions humility and resilience. She supports Heidi during her initial adjustment, and later vows to protect the four girls when the school becomes a wartime post.

The unscrupulous owner of the town orphanage who leverages political backing to seize the girls. He embodies exploitation and cruelty within the war-torn setting, pursuing control and power at the expense of vulnerable youths.

Heidi's supportive friend who defends her against bullying and stands with her in fights against social hierarchy. She embodies loyalty and courage in the face of adversity.

A sophisticated classmate who bullies Heidi and embodies the clash between wealth and modest origins. Her arc highlights the growth Heidi must endure to gain respect and self-worth.

Heidi's protective grandfather who orchestrates and supports her escape. He embodies care, wisdom, and a longing to keep his family safe as war encroaches.

The fifteen-year-old protagonist who navigates culture shock and war-time dangers with courage. She catalyzes the escape, learns to balance independence with responsibility, and seeks a brighter future.

Ilsa's sister, one of the Brookings girls who joins the escape. She contributes to the group's strength and solidarity in their shared ordeal.

An orphan who helps the group by providing crucial information for the escape. She forms part of the close-knit group that moves toward safety.

An orphan boy who travels with the Brookings girls and is captured by Signor Bonelli, contributing to the peril that drives the escape.