The Life of Budori Gusuko

Budori starts from a peaceful mountain life but becomes determined to rescue his sister as famine hits Ihatov. He is resourceful, brave, and driven by family love, willing to leave comfort and face unknown dangers. His journey blends childlike curiosity with growing resilience as he seeks answers in cities, trains, and laboratories.

Neri is Budori’s sister who becomes weakened by hunger and later kidnapped. Her presence motivates Budori’s quest and represents the vulnerable human cost of the crisis. Though she spends much of the story apart from Budori, her fate catalyzes action and hope.

A nameless kidnapper who abducts Neri, embodying the mystery and danger that Budori must confront. The character’s actions drive the plot and challenge Budori’s perceptions of right and wrong, culminating in a surreal confrontation in a world of dreams.

Redbeard is a farmer who welcomes Budori and teaches him farming techniques, offering shelter during a drought. He represents kindness and practical wisdom, helping Budori gain skills and hope before another famine forces a new quest.

Professor Kubo is the scientist whose books Budori studied and who eventually guides him toward studying volcanoes. He serves as a mentor figure, bridging Budori’s thirst for knowledge with real-world scientific inquiry.

Budori’s father disappears into the woods during the storm, prompting the family’s despair and Budori’s subsequent journey to rescue his sister. He represents the disruption of a once stable life and the fragility of safety.

Budori’s mother frantically searches for her missing husband, leaving Budori and Neri to fend for themselves. Her actions highlight the struggle to protect family under crisis and the emotional toll of survival.