Main Characters:
* Esperanza Cordero: The protagonist, a young girl who is forced to flee Mexico with her mother after her father's death.
* Mama (Hortensia Cordero): Esperanza's mother, a strong and resilient woman who tries to protect her daughter.
* Abuelita (Maria Cordero): Esperanza's grandmother, who provides love and wisdom.
* Miguel: Esperanza's childhood friend and love interest.
* Alfonso: A wealthy and handsome man who tries to court Esperanza.
* Isabel: Esperanza's cousin, who is a good friend to her in California.
* Rafa: Isabel's husband and a hard-working man.
* Marta: A kind and supportive woman who helps Esperanza find work.
* Mr. and Mrs. Rocha: A wealthy family who owns the ranch where Esperanza and her mother work.
Other Important Characters:
* Papa (Esteban Cordero): Esperanza's father, who dies in a tragic accident.
* Tio (Esteban Cordero Jr.): Esperanza's uncle, who is initially hostile towards Esperanza and her mother.
* Josefina: A young girl who befriends Esperanza in Mexico.
* The other farmworkers: These individuals, like Ramona and Ramona's father, contribute to the community and Esperanza's experience.
This list doesn't cover every single character, but it includes the most important and recurring names from the book.