Karina is a third-generation Indian American middle school student living in Houston, Texas. She relies on her camera to express feelings she struggles to articulate, preferring photography and reading over socializing with peers. She carries lingering hurt from being teased about her cultural background and appearance in sixth grade and is determined to focus on her studies.

Chris is a middle school student whose passion for basketball eclipses his academic performance. Facing the threat of being moved to a lower-level math class, he requires outside tutoring to maintain his grades. He harbors guilt for failing to defend his neighbor Karina when his friends bullied her the previous year.

Shiv is Karina's elderly paternal grandfather, an immigrant from India who has lived in the United States for fifty years. A retired engineer, he likes to keep busy with household chores and cooking. He eventually volunteers as a math tutor at the local middle school to occupy his time constructively.

Jay is Karina's father and a second-generation Indian American. He provides a stable, loving home for his family and encourages his daughter to ignore bullies. He tries to manage the shifting household dynamics when his father moves in and begins taking over household maintenance tasks.

Trisha is Karina's mother. She is supportive and deeply involved in her daughter's life. When her father-in-law's constant household chores cause friction, she practically suggests that he volunteer as a math tutor to keep himself occupied.

Matt is Chris's older brother and trusted confidant. Having recently moved out to attend college, his absence leaves Chris feeling somewhat isolated at home. He serves as a moral sounding board for Chris, encouraging him to think carefully about right and wrong when dealing with social pressures.

Bill is Chris's father. He is strict about academic performance and reacts with intense anger when he learns his son is failing math. His abrasive behavior toward his neighbors often leaves his son feeling embarrassed.

Ashley is Karina's loyal best friend. The two have been close for years, a bond cemented when Ashley made Karina a special construction paper valentine in their childhood. She offers a listening ear and gentle encouragement regarding Karina's social worries.

Quinn is a middle school student and the leader of a clique of boys on the basketball team. He initiated the cruel teasing against Karina in the sixth grade, making lists about her appearance and writing her a prejudiced note.

Anne is a reporter for the Lonestar Times. She happens to be nearby during a critical, violent incident in the neighborhood and alerts the authorities, subsequently taking a professional interest in the community's response to the event.

Ms. Trotter is Karina's favorite teacher, instructing both homeroom and social studies. She fosters a supportive environment for her students and shares Karina's love of reading.

Diego is one of Chris's friends at Spring Hill Middle School. He supports Chris and helps create a neighborhood tribute to show solidarity with the Chopra family.

Trevor is a middle school student and part of Chris's friend group. He works alongside his peers to demonstrate support for Karina's family during difficult times.

Margaret is the owner of a local art gallery. She is responsible for organizing and judging a tween photography competition with the theme of 'home.'

Riley is an assistant at the local art gallery. She is empathetic to Karina's situation when the middle schoolers arrive asking for a contest deadline extension.