Cast of Characters | By Samantha

Janie Crawford (Killicks, Starks, Woods)
          Janie Crawford was a lively girl growing up. From a young age she had a longing for love, however, by the time she was 40, Janie had been married three times. Through the years, she had never found the true love, contentment, and purpose that she always desired—that is until her third husband. Janie’s life was marked by poverty and trials, yet she never gave up. Because she refused to live in sorrow, bitterness, or fear, Janie makes the most of the life that she has.

Logan Killicks
          Logan Killicks was Janie’s first husband. He was young and rich; known throughout the town by his 60 acres of land. He marries Janie, even though there was no attraction (At least on her part). After the first few weeks of marriage and sweet talk, Logan changed and began treating Janie poorly. From then on, until Janie left him, Logan expected her to do strenuous work with him.

Joe Starks
          Joe Starks was Janie’s second husband. He easily wooed her away from her marriage to Logan because she never really loved Logan, and Joe’s promises sounded appealing. Joe Starks had a good sum of money, and planned to go on to Eatonville to buy land and become mayor. Joe, like Logan, also changed after a while of marriage, and his town status became more important than his wife. Joe and Janie lived together, but were estranged for many years, up until Joe died.

Tea Cake (Vergible Woods)
          Tea Cake was Janie’s third husband. Although he was twelve years younger than her, and a drifter and gambler, he caught Janie’s attention. The kindness, and wit of Tea Cake attracted Janie, and the two ran off together to get married. Tea Cake’s behavior was sometimes strange, but the couple had a genuine love for each other. Unlike her previous husbands, Tea Cake never changed after they were married and started to treat her worse. His love proved strong, and his actions showed that he cared.

Pheoby Watson
          Pheoby Watson was Janie’s best friend. Janie could confide in Pheoby, and vise versa. When Tea Cake first came to town and Janie showed interest in him, Pheoby felt comfortable enough to approach her and warn her about the relationship. Later, when Janie returns home after Tea Cake’s death, Pheoby is the only one who goes to talk with her, while everyone else sits and gossips.

Nanny
          Janie’s grandmother, Nanny, raised her from birth. Nanny had a good heart and good ambitions for Janie; however, she didn’t really know what was best for her. By arranging for Janie to marry Logan, Nanny wasn’t helping things, although she really just wanted Janie to be able to enjoy a life full of love—unlike she herself ever had.