Stefan’s mother, a deeply protective yet controlling figure who chooses to homeschool Stefan, motivated by personal trauma and a distrust of institutions.

A psychologist who plays a secondary role in Stefan’s upbringing, characterized by his passivity in the face of Debra’s dominant presence.

Stefan’s older brother, whose conventional school experiences and progression contrast with Stefan’s homeschooling.

An educational reformer whose philosophy of unschooling heavily influences Debra Block’s approach to Stefan’s education.

A lawyer and activist, he represents the legal framework that empowers homeschooling with minimal oversight in Texas.

A historian whose work provides context for the homeschooling movement within the broader American educational landscape.

A British author whose autobiographical works inspire Stefan’s own storytelling ambitions and narrative style.