Fern:
The main character in this book is Fern, she always feels invisible. She feels that her family has better things to do than pay any attention to her. She is twelve-years-old and is about to enter her first years of middle school. Fern is very compassionate and sensitive, still figuring out her place in the world that keeps changing. When suddenly an incident happens, she has to find a way to deal with guilt, regret and grief that will forever change her family. Her emotional journey and strength of her character that truly earn her the title of a hero.
Holden:
Holden isn't the popular kid at school; he is getting bullied about being gay. He pretends that Mom, Dad and everyone else doesn't know that he's gay either. He is afraid of what his parents will think and do to him if he "came out." He has met a new "friend" that he has been spending most of his time with and people start to suspect things. Holden and Fern are very close and they tell each other things they wouldn't tell other people. They have a trustworthy and loving relationship.
Dad:
Dad is so focused on his restaurant and always finding ways to make it better. He never seems to have time for his kids, or even care about them. He is always working at the restaurant; it's almost as if his life is there. When an incident suddenly happens he forgets about his restaurant for a little while and he finally realizes that he has a family that needs love and care. Most of all a father to be there for them when their mother isn't at the moment.