Restart

Chase is the 13-year-old protagonist of Restart. After falling off his roof, he is afflicted with amnesia and unable to recall any event or person from before he woke up in the hospital. He is very much a reverse hero compared to other middle grade protagonists. So often the protagonist knows something about him or herself, or possesses some secret knowledge that empowers her or him alone. For Chase, the opposite is true. From the outset, everybody knows a great deal about him, but he does not even recognize his own face. Furthermore, while most young protagonists must conquer some external force, Chase’s primary antagonist is himself, and his arc involves reconciling who he was with who he wants to be, to become a better and kinder person.

Chase is athletic and intelligent, with a lively sense of humor. After his accident, he also possesses a clear moral compass. It bothers him to see others mistreated, and he enjoys serving others, such as Solway at the retirement home. He quickly becomes a beloved favorite among the residents there because of his good manners and willingness to assist.

Chase knows he was a bully before falling on his head, and he is troubled by this fact.