The Rabbit-Proof Fence: Is Molly Craig a Hero?

Fourteen-year-old Molly Craig pulls her sister and cousin to their feet and leads them out of the half-caste childrens' camp to which they have been forcefully removed. Dictionary.com defines a 'hero' as someone of distinguished courage and ability, admired for their brave deeds and noble qualities. In this context, yes, Molly Craig is indeed a hero. I, however, think otherwise. In my opinion (and I'm sure many will agree), Molly's spontaneous decision to pull Daisy and Gracie from the camp was based entirely on her own needs. Not once did she pause to ask Daisy or Gracie what they wanted to do. She pulled her family away from the safety, shelter and food that was the half-caste camp, and lead them into the wild desert of Australia. I do not disagree entirely with the dictionary definition: heroes should indeed be courageous and admired. However, they should also be compassionate and selfless - two characteristics that Molly fails to exhibit in her decision to run away.