The Borrowers

Arrietty is a young Borrower who longs to see the world beyond the clock-nest beneath the grandfather clock. She demonstrates curiosity, resourcefulness, and a cautious sense of responsibility toward her family. Her bond with the human Boy and her drive to understand the larger world push the Borrowers toward a wider life while respecting danger and scarcity.

Pod Clock is Arrietty’s father, who returns shaken from a borrowing expedition and becomes protective of his family. He negotiates risk with caution, leading their outings while concealing the Borrowers’ existence from humans. His resolve to keep his kin safe anchors the Borrowers’ delicate balance with the human world.

Homily Clock is the pragmatic mother who guides Arrietty in telling the truth when necessary. She values family safety but also recognizes the importance of Arrietty’s growth and outside exposure. Her measured approach helps balance risk and compassion within the hidden world.

James is the human boy sent from India who is bilingual and slow to learn English. He forms a cautious, groundbreaking bond with Arrietty, inviting her to read to him in exchange for books. He delivers a letter to a badger sett and becomes a bridge between Borrowers and the outside world. His kindness and curiosity spark hope for the Borrowers’ survival.

Mrs Driver is the housekeeper who suspects the Boy of theft and ultimately uncovers the Borrowers’ hidden world. Her fear leads to confinement and attempts to fumigate the house, threatening the Borrowers’ safety. Her discovery creates the central conflict that endangers the tiny residents.

Kate frames the story, sitting with her aunt Mrs May as they recount the Borrowers’ legend. She is curious about missing items and becomes a conduit for the tale to connect past and present. Her narration ties the Borrowers’ world to the human world through memory.