An eighth-grader who was born in a boy's body but identifies as a girl. She faces daily anxiety about how to present herself to the world and longs to start hormone blockers. Despite deep insecurities about the bullying she endures at school, she shows compassion for others and finds solace in reading beneath a large banyan tree.

A tall, uncoordinated teenager who recently moved from New Jersey to live with his grandmother. He has bipolar disorder and hates the sluggish feeling his medication causes. Desperate for a fresh start and eager to fit in with the popular crowd, he decides to adopt a new nickname and lie about his basketball skills.

Lily's mother, a former lawyer who now works as a yoga instructor. She is fully supportive of Lily's gender identity and advocates fiercely on her behalf. She actively researches medical options and uses Lily's preferred name to bring her comfort.

Lily's father, who struggles deeply with her gender identity. Driven by a fear that people will physically harm Lily, he pushes her to adopt more masculine behaviors and wear boys' clothing. He actively avoids conversations about hormone blockers and medical appointments.

Lily’s best friend since preschool, easily identifiable by her bold personality and athletic schedule. She refuses to coddle Lily, pushing her to stop hiding and present her true self to the world. She provides a safe space for Lily by sharing clothes and offering tough love.

A popular athlete and the primary bully at the middle school. He surrounds himself with a group of likeminded boys, using aggressive language and physical intimidation to maintain social power. He acts as the gatekeeper for the basketball team's social circle.

Lily's older sister, who spends her free time in a knitting club making projects to decorate the neighborhood. She worries about the harassment Lily might face and suggests waiting until high school to transition publicly.

Dunkin's energetic grandmother. She runs regularly and cooks healthy meals while opening her home to Dunkin and his mother. She actively helps Dunkin practice basketball drills in her driveway.

Dunkin's mother, who appears exhausted and frequently sad following their relocation to Florida. She constantly monitors Dunkin's medication intake and pushes him to attend psychiatric appointments.

Dunkin's father, who stayed behind in New Jersey. He suffers from bipolar disorder, alternating between depressive episodes in bed and manic periods filled with grandiose business plans.

Lily's late grandfather, remembered for his unconditional love and complete acceptance of her identity. Lily named her favorite banyan tree after him to honor the safe space he provided.

Dunkin's relentlessly positive friend from New Jersey. Dunkin frequently relies on his encouraging voice and advice to push away negative thoughts.

Dare's new friend who spends increasing amounts of time with her. She initially struggles to understand Lily's situation but tries to smooth over awkward moments with jokes.

The aggressive and demanding father of the school bully. He publicly berates his son during games, offering a glimpse into the source of Vasquez's own hostility.