Fairest

Aza is the novel’s main character. She is 15 and 16 during the story’s main events. Aza describes herself as “large boned and awkward [….] with a big sphere of a face and round button eyes” (4). This description demonstrates the self-critical tone of much of her narration. Because of her kingdom’s exacting beauty standards, Aza’s appearance lowers her self-worth. Although she is harsh towards herself, Aza looks for the best in others and feels sympathy for Ivi even when the queen acts like a tyrant. This quality leads Prince Ijori to regard her as “the finest, kindest, sweetest maiden in Ayortha” (172). Aza also stands out because of her musical ability. In “a kingdom of singers,” Aza has “the finest” voice in her village (1). The creative girl composes many songs throughout the story and develops innovative vocal techniques like illusing. Aza’s kindness and creativity are two of her greatest strengths while her self-criticism poses an obstacle to her growth.

As the protagonist and narrator, Aza guides the story’s plot and themes. She serves as the story’s Snow White figure, but she’s rounder and more developed than the original Snow White because she experiences anger and deceives people, whereas the fairytale princess never deviates from perfect sweetness and innocence.