Mas is Minnow's older brother, introduced as a responsible and mature character who gives up his college education to care for his family. He acts as a parental figure to his brothers and friends, handling challenges and unrest in the community following Pearl Harbor with grace.

Shig is the humorous and reckless Ito brother who generally tries to lighten the mood. However, beneath his carefree attitude lies anger about his town's evacuation. He learns to channel his frustration constructively, preserving Japanese heritage during adversity.

Frankie is characterized by his anger, especially after being denied military service due to his race. He finds solace in his friends and grapples with the injustice and racism around him. His journey involves finding an outlet for his anger and growing through personal challenges.

Tommy is the oldest son in his family, facing immense pressure to be perfect. He wrestles with his identity, caught between his Japanese roots and American life. The narrative explores his sensitivity and creativity as he seeks to define who he is.

Aiko is Tommy's younger sister and the favored child. She observes the familial dynamics and asserts herself when necessary, using her perspective to draw lines between her aspirations and her father's plans.

Twitchy, always moving and charming, serves as a background character who enlists in the military. He is known for focusing on bravery and love for his friends, highlighting a different outlook from many of his peers.

Stan is resigned to the racism surrounding him, refraining from applying to college due to anticipated rejection. His journey reflects a gradual change from resignation to hopefulness as he considers future possibilities.

Mary is Stan’s younger sister, initially angry about her family’s relocation. Her character evolves as she understands the lack of control over her circumstances and focuses on survival and hope.

Keiko starts as an outsider in the friend group and becomes an emotionally guarded character after personal losses. Her journey involves building new friendships and overcoming her fears.

The optimistic Bette views challenges, like moving to a more permanent internment camp, as adventures. She is driven by her desire for love, dancing, and teenage experiences, often balancing her views with those of others, like Frankie.

Yuki is a hopeful and talented softball player. Her narrative shows the stark reality of racism crashing into her dreams, forcing her to grow up quickly and face the complexities of prejudice.

Yum-yum is Shig’s girlfriend, a talented pianist who adapts to life in the camps. She becomes responsible for her family after her father is taken, finding support through friends and intertwining themes of family and friendship.

Kiyoshi enters the story later, meeting Mary and Stan in Tule Lake. He overcomes past trauma and demonstrates courage by protecting others and showing strength in adversity.