Riva's courageous younger brother known for his boldness and love for family, taking risks to protect and provide for his siblings in desperate circumstances.

The youngest of Riva's brothers, who follows Motele's lead while playing a supportive role, encouraging Riva's writing and learning to prepare for the hope of their mother's return.

Riva's youngest brother who suffers from tuberculosis, known for his hopeful nature and love for poetry and stories that provide solace to his family.

Riva’s mother, remembered for her courage and moral guidance, whose saying "as long as there is life, there is hope" echoes throughout Riva's life.

A neighbor affectionately known as "musheggener" who defies danger to assist Riva during a debilitating illness, showcasing persistence and care.

A kind and intelligent member of the Socialist youth league who forms a close bond with Riva through shared readings and mutual encouragement.

A medical student in the camps who advocates for Riva's medical treatment and risks her life to support Riva's poetic voice.

The landlady who was once a family friend but becomes complicit in Nazi persecution as tensions in Lodz rise.

Mrs. Gruber's grandson and childhood friend to Riva, whose alignment with the Hitler Youth creates a painful divide.

An acquaintance of Rifkele who becomes a supportive presence for Riva at Auschwitz and beyond, providing much-needed encouragement.

The first aid attendant at the Mittelsteine factory who secretly aids Riva with food and care, alleviating some of her suffering.

The figure of authority in the camp whose unexpected reaction to Riva's poetry results in critical medical care for Riva.

The camp elder responsible for communicating orders from the commandant and enabling Riva's medical treatment.

Riva’s daughter, who, despite being born in America, empathizes deeply with Holocaust suffering and fears its recurrence.