Central Characters:
* Joseph (Joe): A young boy living in the English countryside during World War I. He is kind, compassionate, and deeply affected by the war's impact on his family and community. He is the story's narrator.
* Albert (Albie): Joe's older brother, who is a soldier fighting in the war. He is brave, loving, and deeply concerned for his family back home.
* Alice: Joe and Albie's mother. She is a strong and resilient woman, trying to hold her family together during a difficult time.
* Father: Joe and Albie's father, a local farmer who is deeply impacted by the war and its effect on his sons.
Other Important Characters:
* Mrs. Gregory: A kind and compassionate neighbor who helps the family during the war.
* Mr. Gregory: Mrs. Gregory's husband, who is also a farmer and neighbor.
* Charlie: A young boy who becomes Joe's friend and confidant.
* Tommy: A soldier who becomes Albie's close friend in the trenches.
The "Shadow":
The "shadow" in the title is a metaphorical representation of several things:
* The fear and uncertainty caused by the war: It hangs over the characters' lives, affecting their actions and emotions.
* The psychological impact of the war: The characters grapple with trauma, loss, and the sense of being "changed" by the experience.
* The weight of grief and responsibility: The characters face the burden of loss and the need to carry on despite their suffering.
This is a brief overview of the main characters in "Shadow." Morpurgo skillfully portrays their individual struggles and relationships within the broader context of the war, creating a deeply moving and memorable story.