Characters in A Tale for the Time Being

Nao

Ruth (A Tale for the Time Being)

Japanese-American novelist on a remote BC island who finds Nao's diary washed ashore; co-narrator alongside Nao, closely modeled on the real author.

Jiko

Nao's 104-year-old great-grandmother, a Buddhist nun, who teaches Nao spiritual lessons and offers her a model of wisdom and compassion.

Haruki Yasutani (#2)

Nao's father, who lost his tech job in Silicon Valley, moved the family back to Japan, and attempted suicide.

Haruki Yasutani (#1)

Jiko's son and Nao's great-uncle, a reluctant kamikaze pilot conscripted in 1943; his wartime letters and diary form a historical thread in the novel.

Oliver (A Tale for the Time Being)

Ruth's husband, who supports and offers perspective as she pursues her investigation into Nao's identity and fate.

Daisuke

A hapless schoolmate whom Nao bullies, illustrating her own capacity for cruelty despite being a victim of bullying herself.