A 13-year-old third-born child who has spent her life hiding from the tyrannical Government. Raised in strict secrecy by her grandmother and aunts, she eventually receives a forged identification card to attend the Harlow School for Girls under the name Nina Idi. Her sheltered existence shatters when the Population Police arrest her, thrusting her into a brutal and highly disorienting prison environment. Isolated and grieving a deep betrayal, she faces agonizing moral choices regarding her fellow prisoners.

An imposing, muscular officer of the Population Police who oversees Nina's imprisonment. He employs aggressive interrogation tactics, pressuring Nina to act as an informant against three young children held in a nearby cell. He offers her favorable treatment and real food in exchange for extracting their true identities. His intimidating presence and harsh ultimatums deeply terrify Nina as she weighs her own survival against her morals.

A six-year-old third child imprisoned by the Population Police. She wears ragged, patched clothing and relies on the street-smart instincts she developed while hiding outdoors. Despite her vulnerable physical appearance, she maintains a steady confidence and frequently comforts her older companions. Her quiet strength and optimistic demeanor provide a grounding presence in the dark, filthy cell.

A ten-year-old boy who acts as the fiercely protective leader for Percy and Alia. Having survived primarily on the streets, he constantly remains alert to his surroundings and evaluates potential threats. He approaches new situations with deep caution, openly questioning the motives of anyone who interacts with his group. He is resourceful and deeply committed to keeping his younger friends safe from the authorities.

A nine-year-old boy characterized by his sharp facial features and relentless energy. He defers to Matthias's judgment but possesses his own keen survival instincts developed during their time living on the streets. He maintains a tough exterior to shield himself from the harsh realities of a world that criminalizes his existence.

A student from the Hendricks School who previously engaged Nina and her classmates in covert discussions about children's rights. He spoke passionately about the resistance against the Government, earning Nina's admiration and affection. Nina later learns that he reported her to the authorities, fundamentally fracturing her ability to trust others.

One of Nina's devoted aunts who helped raise her in profound secrecy. She pooled her limited resources and pension savings to purchase Nina a forged identification card on the black market, prioritizing Nina's safety above her own comfort.

Another of Nina's caretakers who maintained strict rules, such as keeping the curtains perpetually closed, to ensure Nina's existence remained hidden from the Government. Her sacrifices allowed Nina to briefly experience a more normal life at a boarding school.

Nina's grandmother, who washed her, taught her to read, and imparted lessons about faith. She provided a foundation of warmth and unconditional acceptance in Nina's highly restricted early childhood.

Nina's mother. She birthed Nina in defiance of the population laws and continuously sends money to support her daughter's upkeep, though the family's precarious situation forces them to live apart.

Nina's father. The constant threat of the Population Police forces him to remain physically distanced from his illegal third child, leaving Nina to wonder if he knows about her daily struggles and eventual imprisonment.

A student from the Hendricks School for Boys known for his gardening skills. Nina views him as a crucial source of knowledge when she tries to figure out how to cultivate food in the wilderness, eventually seeking him out directly.

A boy residing at the Hendricks School. He aggressively guards the school's vegetable patches from outside intruders and views strangers with high suspicion due to the ongoing threat of betrayal.

A man who uses a wheelchair and oversees the students at the Hendricks School. He commands strict authority within his cottage on the school grounds and interrogates those caught trespassing on his property.

A brave young activist who organized a high-stakes protest to demand rights for shadow children. Her willingness to die for her beliefs makes her a legendary figure among the underground resistance, inspiring Nina to desire that same level of bravery.

An activist who previously protected and sheltered Matthias, Percy, and Alia. His violent death at a political rally left the three young children entirely vulnerable to arrest by the Population Police.