Stephen's love interest and a teenage girl of Chinese American descent, dealing with prejudice and striving to connect with her heritage while being adopted by a family in Settler’s Landing.

Influential figures in Stephen’s life who are minimally present, with his father embodying kindness and altruism, and his grandfather representing harsh practicality and abusive behavior.

A couple who takes Stephen in, exemplifying both kindness and the moral complexities of survival, as they balance self-protection with efforts to improve the world around them.

Stephen’s close friend, notable for his sweetness, bravery, and anxiety; he values stability and is emotionally affected by the harshness of the world.

Antagonists representing arrogance, cruelty, and authoritarianism, with Caleb using religious justification for his actions and Will reflecting his father’s behaviors.

A teacher characterized by his bravery and belief in the importance of education and literature, serving as a foil to Stephen’s grandfather.

Unnamed antagonists characterized by their stereotypical villainy, prioritizing individual survival over humanity, and possessing wealth and supplies for harmful purposes.

A group of adolescents representing hope for the future, who balance typical teenage experiences with the traumas of a post-collapse world and emphasize community.