* Lily: The protagonist, a 13-year-old girl who is struggling to adapt to her new life in a foster home after her parents are incarcerated. Lily is a passionate artist and an independent spirit, but she is also insecure and scared. She wants to be "normal" and longs for a stable family.
* Sam: Lily's best friend and the son of the foster parents. Sam is a kind and understanding boy who is patient with Lily and helps her adjust to her new surroundings. He shares her passion for art and becomes a confidante for her.
* Eleanor and Paul: The foster parents, who are kind and caring but also have their own struggles. They are trying to create a loving home for Lily and Sam while navigating the challenges of raising teenagers.
Secondary characters:
* Lily's Parents: Lily's parents are in prison, and their absence casts a shadow over her life. While not present in the story, they are a significant influence on Lily's emotional state.
* The Social Worker: The social worker is responsible for placing Lily in a foster home and for monitoring her progress.
* Other Children in Foster Care: Lily encounters other children in the foster care system, who also have their own unique stories and challenges.
The novel focuses on Lily's journey of self-discovery and resilience as she navigates the challenges of being in foster care and the desire for a "normal" life.