Elsa's firstborn daughter, who has dreams of traveling the world as a journalist. Her fierce independence and initial resentment towards her mother eventually lead her to become a social justice advocate.

Elsa's youngest child, whose resilience is born of youth and naivete. He views life's challenges as adventures but matures quickly when confronted with family realities.

Son of a neighboring farmer, he initially woos Elsa but is unready for fatherhood responsibilities. His dreams and charming personality ultimately clash with Elsa’s grounded nature.

Elsa's mother-in-law, a strong Sicilian immigrant and archetypal frontierswoman. She becomes more of a mother to Elsa than her own, valuing Elsa's adaptation to farm life.

Rose's husband, a jovial "old world" immigrant who dreams of being American. He welcomes Elsa into the family and symbolizes the immigrant spirit of hard work and resilience.

Elsa's stern parents, who smother her with overprotective methods, inadvertently creating in her a restless and defiant spirit. Their behavior sets the stage for Elsa's relationship with Rafe.

A mature dreamer, unlike Rafe, who understands that dreams require hard work. He helps Elsa gain self-confidence and stands with her in struggles for workers’ rights.

Elsa’s best friend in the squatters' camp who offers guidance and support. She introduces Elsa to the collective power of community among individuals facing similar hardships.