Throughout the novel, Hood highlights Ken’s coming-of-age process, particularly through the difficulties he faces. Even as the novel opens, Ken is no stranger to struggle. He never had the opportunity to know his biological mother, and the war has shaped his childhood and taught him what it means to live simply. He must make his own toys, pitch in with family chores like gardening, and accept the “make do and mend” (12) mentality of wartime. Ken’s father sees the evacuation as an opportunity for Ken to make his own way in the world, and although it takes a while for him to come around, Ken soon sees the excitement in the opportunity as well. At age 13, Ken is in limbo between boyhood and manhood; he is no longer a child, but not yet an adult. However, the experience of leaving his family to evacuate on the SS City of Benares, and the subsequent survival situation aboard Lifeboat 12, shape Ken into a confident and independent young man.

Once on the Benares, Ken takes opportunities to lead by taking care of others. As one of the older boys in the group of children, he recognizes the importance of doing his part to watch over the younger boys.