Monument 14

Dean is a 16-year-old high school student. At the outset of the novel, he is something of an outcast, with no friends mentioned. One of his primary drives at the beginning of the novel is his crush on Astrid Heyman, a popular girl who takes little notice of him. He also envies Jake Simonsen and Brayden, two popular boys who get all the attention and girls. Dean has “always been a writer” and spends time journaling and recording his experience (21).

Once disaster strikes, Dean assumes the role of cook in the Greenway and is responsible for preparing all meals. He also assumes a caretaking role, supporting the younger children and letting them help him during meal preparation. He is O-blood type and reacts with violent outbursts to the chemical compound. As time goes on, Dean’s status in the group increases a bit, and Jake and Brayden gain a little more respect for him. After Jakes abandons the group and the rest of the students decide to leave, Dean stays with Astrid in order to support her and her unborn child.