Isaiah Rufus is Alex’s 12-year-old brother, characterized by his creative aspirations to become a rapper and his heavy burden from prophetic visions. His dynamic bond with Alex highlights the novel’s themes of brotherhood and hope.

MacKayla Kaplan, known as Aunt Mackie, is Alex’s aunt and guardian, a successful real estate agent in Chicago who embodies professional success and personal resilience. She provides Alex and Isaiah with a safe and nurturing home environment.

Talia Gomez is Alex’s girlfriend, whose joyful and affectionate nature provides him with respite from his anxieties. Their relationship navigates challenges of intimacy and communication as they both heal from personal losses.

Karen Zaccari is Alex’s neighbor in the gated community of Santiam Estates, who exhibits privilege and well-intentioned but misguided attitudes. Her interactions reveal underlying prejudices and contribute to the atmosphere of racial tension in the story.