Frank Goldberg
Frank Goldberg, 50, is aN immigrant journalist. He has endured a great deal of trauma in his life as a result of his mixed heritage, which led to him being mocked and dubbed a "monkey boy" in his youth. Regardless, he is a highly educated and talented writer. He had a rocky and turbulent relationship with his father, a Ukrainian Jew. His father was a violent man, and Frank recalls the beatings he gave him. Frank never married or had children as a result of his trauma and inability to maintain relationships. Frank is involved with a young Mexican immigrant, Lulú, and is heading to Boston for dinner with an ex-girlfriend, time with his mother, and an interview. Despite his trauma, Frank eventually realizes the need to risk being hurt and risk living, which he ultimately decides to do.
Frank's father
Frank’s father was a Ukrainian Jew who, due to antisemitism, was unable to pursue his dream of becoming a doctor. Instead, he became a civil engineer, creating false teeth. He was a brutal authoritarian figure who abused Frank and his mother. His actions had a long-term impact on Frank, making him ashamed of his mixed heritage and causing him to suffer from traumas that continue to haunt him. Despite this, Frank's father possessed some redeeming qualities, such as a strong desire to provide a good life for his family. Frank's relationship with his father was complicated and frequently strained, but his father's death did not necessarily resolve his feelings about it. He was unable to show them the same kind of love and affection that a father should show his children.
Frank's mother
Frank’s mother is an incredibly strong and resilient woman. She was born in Guatemala and immigrated to the United States when she was a child. She was a success in America, but she was later diagnosed with dementia. Despite this, she was able to have a light bulb moment with Frank when he asked about her past. She told him she had an affair with a Mexican freedom fighter, demonstrating her strength and courage. Even though Frank's father was abusive and violent, she was able to stay in the marriage. She is also very caring, as evidenced by her willingness to hire nannies to assist with Frank and his siblings' care. She also dared to leave him after discovering his infidelity, which Frank admired and respected. She was also a role model for Frank, demonstrating that despite adversity, he can make something of his life.
Lulú
Lulú is a 25-year-old Mexican immigrant who aspires to be a civil engineer like Frank. She is portrayed as a brave and optimistic character who is always striving for the best. Even in the face of adversity, she remains resilient and determined. She is also understanding and supportive of Frank's past and trauma. She encourages him to confront his past and push himself out of his comfort zone. Lulú is also intelligent and moral, as evidenced by her dedication to her dreams and goals. She is kind and compassionate, and despite being in a relationship with someone twice her age, she is devoted to Frank.
Rene
Rene is Frank's mother's former lover and a Mexican freedom fighter. He is a minor character who appears only once in the book, but he has a significant impact on the plot. Rene represents the freedom and courage that Frank must discover within himself in order to move on with his life. He is described as a man of strong convictions as well as tenderness. He is a passionate person, and this is reflected in his dedication to his cause and his fight for a better world. He is also a risk-taker, willing to put himself out there and take chances, even if it means risking his life.
José Marti
José Marti was a Cuban poet and independence leader who fought for freedom and independence from Spanish colonial rule. He was a dedicated and passionate revolutionary dedicated to the cause of the Cuban people. He was a gifted writer and orator who used his writing and speeches to rally and inspire his audience. José Marti was a fearless leader who was willing to put his life on the line for freedom. He was a wise and intelligent leader who could think strategically and objectively and make sound decisions. He was also a dedicated and loyal leader who never gave up, even when the odds appeared to be insurmountable.
