Sassafras is Zoey’s cat, and her constant companion throughout the novel. Sassafras is intelligent, and understands what is happening around him. For example, when Zoey’s mom is talking about the doorbell and that she thought she was the only one in the family who could hear it, Sassafras meows accusingly. Her mom adds “that clever animals like Sassafras can see it too” (23). 

Sassafras’s primary role in the novel is providing companionship and emotional support for Zoey. Sassafras is empathetic and emotionally intelligent as well. He cuddles into Zoey’s lap when she is worried or sad. When Marshmallow is cold, he lies down beside the baby dragon and won’t leave his side. When Zoey is concerned that Marshmallow won’t eat, Sassafras “bumped my chin with his head and purred. He could tell that I was super worried about Marshmallow” (77). 

Sassafras is also an allusion to the novel’s fantasy genre elements. Traditional portrayals of witches often feature intelligent cat companions or familiars. Sassafras is an inversion of that trope, as he is Zoey’s companion, but in science rather than witchcraft.

Zoey’s mom is a secondary character in the novel. She has a profound influence on Zoey. Zoey’s mom is supportive to her daughter. She trusts Zoey to take care of the magical animals, and expresses pride in her daughter on returning home. Before her mom leaves on her trip, Zoey finds it is unusual that her mom is inside rather than outside playing with her, which suggests that Zoey’s mom usually makes time to explore with Zoey. Zoey’s mom, who is also invested in teaching Zoey about science through play, is characterized as a good and effective teacher. Zoey remembers conversations with her mom about nature, science, and experimental design. This foundation allows Zoey to test her resourcefulness and independence when her mom leaves for an academic conference.

Zoey’s mom is a scientist, and is characterized as being committed to her work. She is speaking at a conference, keeps extensive observational notebooks, and explains science concepts to her daughter, emphasizing the Importance of the Scientific Method. Zoey’s mom also engages with the novel’s fantasy elements; her ability to see and care for magical animals allows for a deeper bond with Zoey. Zoey’s mom has felt lonely, thinking she was the only person who could see the magical animals; now, she feels joy at being able to share the magic with her daughter.