Molly Jemison, inspired by the historical figure Mary Jemison, is the protagonist of the novel. Molly’s transformation and internal conflict drive the central plot of the book. Although the narration of the book is third-person omniscient, evidenced by the few times the narrator shares information Molly does not know, for most of the novel the narration is closely tied to Molly’s perspective.

At the beginning of the novel, Molly is described as “small for her age,” with shining blue eyes and hair that is “the pale, silvery yellow of ripened corn” (42). Molly’s hair is an important characteristic throughout the book. The Senecas are intrigued by Molly’s hair and give her the name Corn Tassel; when she encounters white characters, Molly’s yellow hair signals her racial identity, even when she is dressed in Seneca fashion.

Immediately, there is a sense that Molly loves her family but does not quite fit with their lifestyle. She runs “with free and joyous” motion and is eager to get out of the house, where “her naturally light spirit” is not burdened by worry and work (42).