At the beginning of the novel Lucas is curious about his family history, and resentful that no-one will tell him exactly what happened.

He is annoyed at being forced on a country holiday – and bored by it.

Possible acts of redemption include:

1. His loyalty to his grandfather – he tries to defend his grandfather because:
   1. It was illegal to harbour Jews
   2. There was evidence that the children were returned unharmed after the war
2. He deliberately wastes the petrol Benoit was expecting to make petrol bombs with
3. He rescues Caitlin from the burning car
4. He denounces Benoit to the police
5. He cops wood for the refugees
6. He confesses to Caitlin