A Perfect Understanding
A Perfect UnderstandingClare Chambers
Characters in A Perfect Understanding
4 characters, main characters first.Main characters
Jean Swinney
A journalist in her mid-30s, unmarried and caring for her mother, whose life is upended when she investigates a virgin birth claim.
Supporting characters
Gretchen Tilbury
A woman who makes the sensational claim that her daughter Margaret is the product of a virgin birth, becoming intertwined with Jean's life.
Howard Tilbury
Gretchen's husband, who unexpectedly draws Jean's affection with his wit, intelligence, and kindness.
Margaret Tilbury
Gretchen's quirky and charming daughter, who becomes a sort of surrogate child to Jean.