Characters

Kasienka

Kasienka is the protagonist of The Weight of Water. She is a 13-year-old Polish girl who moves to England with her mother in search of her father.
She is mature for her age, quiet, and determined.
In her own words, "I thought maybe I'd be exotic... like an English girl in Gdansk. But I am not an English girl in Gdansk. I'm a Pole in Coventry".
This highlights her feelings of alienation and struggles to fit in at her new school.
- Kasienka's love for swimming helps her find solace and confidence and connect with a boy named William.
- By the end of the novel, she stands up to her bully, Clair.

Mama is Kasienka's mother, who is determined and somewhat desperate in her search for her husband, Tata, who left them.
She relies heavily on Kasienka, as seen in her constant praise, "Good girl Kasienka".
Mama's single-minded focus on finding Tata affects her relationship with Kasienka, causing tension and emotional distance.
Despite her struggles, Mama's relationship with Kasienka evolves, showing her love and the challenges of their situation.

Clair is the antagonist and the 'Queen Bee' of Kasienka's class.
She is self-centred and mean and enjoys bullying others to maintain her social status.
- Clair cuts chunks from Kasienka's hair and spreads rumours about her, demonstrating her cruelty, "I am their prey and there is nothing I can do to stop their pouncing".
- Clair's actions embody the theme of bullying and discrimination that Kasienka faces.

William is a kind and supportive boy Kasienka meets at the swimming pool. He encourages her to stand up for herself and becomes a source of strength and comfort for her.
Kasienka's relationship with William is significant as it represents her first experience of young love and acceptance.
He treats her with respect and helps her gain confidence, "He knows I can save Myself".

Kanoro is a Kenyan doctor who lives next door to Kasienka and her mother. He provides friendship, wisdom, and support, becoming a beacon of hope for Kasienka.
His kindness is evident in how he always brings a smile and twinkling eyes, helping to brighten their difficult situation.
Kanoro's character shows the importance of friendship and kindness in overcoming adversity. "Happiness should be your revenge, Kasienka. Happiness."