Marcus is a fourteen-year-old eighth grader who is unusually tall and physically imposing. He uses his size to run small protection and convenience businesses at school, quietly funding his family's emergency cash jar. Though inherently gentle and dedicated to his younger brother, he assumes most peers view him as a threat. His suspension from school prompts a family trip to Puerto Rico, where he hopes to locate his absent father.

Marcus's twelve-year-old brother, who was born with Down syndrome. Outgoing, optimistic, and highly sociable, he happily greets classmates and readily embraces new experiences. He relies on quotes from his favorite book and movie franchise to communicate his feelings when situations become overwhelming. His integration into the local public school required a significant battle, but he remains oblivious to the resulting prejudice.

The hardworking single mother to Marcus and Charlie. She works long, exhausting shifts for an airline at the Philadelphia International Airport to support her boys, whom she affectionately calls her "all-star team." Stressed by financial struggles and school disciplinary issues, she organizes a free flight to Puerto Rico for a much-needed family reset, though she remains hesitant to confront her past.

A wealthy, manipulative bully at Montgomery Middle School. He specializes in verbal cruelty, targeting younger students' insecurities while maintaining a facade of innocence to avoid punishment. He views Marcus as a challenge and deliberately attempts to provoke an altercation.

A new student of Colombian descent at Montgomery Middle School. Chatty, inquisitive, and deeply proud of his heritage, he quickly discerns Marcus's protective nature and pays for his walking service. He refuses to tolerate bigotry, defending his peers against prejudice and encouraging Marcus to explore his own roots by lending him a camera.

Cousin to Marcus's father who lives in Puerto Rico. He drives an old lime-green pickup truck and transports agricultural produce across the island. Having lost his parents at a young age, he places immense value on kinship and warmly welcomes Melissa and her sons, offering to help Marcus search for his father.

Sergio's college-aged daughter. She studies agricultural engineering on the mainland but remains firmly tied to her Puerto Rican heritage, planning to return and work on the island after graduation.

The formidable aunt to Sergio and Marcus's father. She runs Finca Vega, a traditional farm in the misty mountains of Orocovis, where she teaches agriculture to local youth. Often speaking in practical, agricultural metaphors, she provides the family with grounded wisdom and honest perspectives.

The absent father of Marcus and Charlie. He abandoned the family a decade ago and returned to Puerto Rico, leaving Melissa to raise the boys alone. His silence and unknown whereabouts drive Marcus's determination to track him down during the family vacation.

Melissa's uncle-in-law who operates a rustic, run-down hostel in Old San Juan. His home features windows patched with plastic bags and tape, but he maintains an open-door policy fueled by endless generosity. He provides the Vega family with free lodging and traditional meals upon their arrival.

A German tourist spending her school break at Ermenio's hostel in Old San Juan. She joins the extended family's outings and experiences the local culture alongside the Vegas.

Angela's twin sister, also visiting Puerto Rico from Germany. She enjoys the bustling street festivals and readily participates in the family's road trips across the island.

Darma and Sergio's cousin who lives near a nature reserve on the coast in Manatí. He hosts a massive, vibrant backyard pernil roast that brings the entire neighborhood together.

The administrator at Montgomery Middle School. He recognizes that Marcus is not inherently violent but worries that the boy's intense need to protect his brother is negatively affecting his education.

Stephen's wealthy mother and the head of the parents association. She actively opposed Charlie's enrollment at the middle school and fiercely coddles her son while demanding severe punishment for Marcus.

Stephen's father. During a disciplinary meeting, he displays unexpected admiration for Marcus's entrepreneurial skills rather than focusing solely on his son's altercation.

A student at Montgomery Middle School who plays mobile games on his phone. He interacts with Marcus in the hallways and is known to be friendly with Charlie.