Strangers in Time

In Strangers in Time, World War II throws Charlie, Molly, and Ignatius together, and despite their divergent backgrounds, they find solace in one another as they endure the hardships of war. Molly is immediately drawn to Charlie because of his kindness and his evident suffering. As they become closer, Charlie and Molly offer one another care and emotional support through their tragedies. Molly holds Charlie’s hand through Gran’s viewing and funeral to protect him while he’s emotionally vulnerable. In turn, Molly talks openly about her familial problems with Charlie, which helps to alleviate her confusion and anger. As the only adult of the group, Ignatius offers the children both emotional and material support, and the three characters become a found-family unit. Even before Charlie and Molly move in, they seek Ignatius out for wisdom. For example, Molly asks Ignatius for help understanding the Beneficial Institute’s letters, since the contents both confuse and frighten her. Over the course of the novel, Ignatius takes on the role of Charlie and Molly’s father, and he willingly assumes the responsibility of housing and feeding the children. Ignatius’s adult perspective dispels the children’s fears and brings them comfort during a tumultuous time in their lives.