* Ana Rosa: A young Cuban girl who is forced to flee her home during the Cuban Revolution. She is brave, resourceful, and determined to survive.
* Josefina: Ana Rosa's grandmother, who is also forced to flee Cuba. She is wise, loving, and a source of strength for her granddaughter.
* Miguel: A young Cuban boy who Ana Rosa befriends during their journey. He is kind, compassionate, and helps Ana Rosa navigate the dangers of their journey.
* The Revolutionaries: The Cuban revolutionaries fighting for change are a significant force in the story, though not always directly involved in the characters' lives. Their actions and the war itself impact the characters' journeys and experiences.
While there are other characters who appear throughout the story, these four are the most prominent and carry the narrative arc.