Elena is a brave and stubborn 13-year-old girl who misses her parents. She shows perseverance and cleverness, notably retaining some of their money after a robbery. Sensitive toward family connections, she has a natural knack for rancho work and shows empathy, especially towards Javi.

Javi is a grey-haired migrant from El Salvador who is determined to cross la línea despite previous failures. Having left his family behind, he takes Miguel and Elena under his wing and swears to protect Elena. Javi proves to be a valuable companion due to his knowledge and resilience.

Abuelita is the thin, gray-haired grandmother of Miguel and Elena who raised them lovingly for almost seven years. She is devoutly Catholic and acts as a moral guide, doing her best to provide for them despite financial struggles.

Moisés, known as El Plomero, is an experienced coyote and former bootmaker at the border. He is professional and tough, personally leading Miguel, Elena, and Javi across the desert, providing essential assistance to help them reach their destination.

Papá and Mamá, known only through Miguel's descriptions, play crucial roles in motivating Miguel and Elena's journey north. Papá is a self-taught man focused on providing a better life, while Mamá is seen as a source of hope, writing letters that lift Elena's spirits.

Don Clemente is San Jacinto's wealthiest man, known for helping people cross la línea for a price. Despite being disfigured from a fire, he was grateful to Miguel's father for saving his life and intended to repay the favor by assisting Miguel and Elena.

Juanito is Don Clemente’s nephew, known for his wealth and luxurious lifestyle. Unlike Don Clemente, he lacks professional ethics and is suspected by Miguel to be involved in dubious activities, prompting Miguel and Elena to continue their journey north for safety.