Topper
Topper is a Jamaican immigrant living in Miami with his wife, Sanya, and two sons, Trelawney and Delano. He is proud of his family and is determined to give them a better life in America. He is a passionate man who is committed to his homeland, Jamaica. Topper is a strong believer in the importance of education, which puts him at odds with his sons' different paths. He is hardworking and motivated, but his attempts at providing for the family are often met with frustration and failure. His relationship with his sons is strained, especially with Trelawney, whom he has difficulty understanding. He is often frustrated and quick to anger and is guilty of lashing out at his sons when he is overwhelmed. Despite his shortcomings, Topper truly loves his family and is willing to do whatever it takes to protect them.
Sanya
Sanya is a wife to Topper and a mother of two sons, Trelawny and Delano, and is determined to create a better life for her family in America. She is also willing to make sacrifices for her family, such as working two jobs to make ends meet. She is also fiercely protective of her sons, and will not hesitate to defend them if necessary. Sanya is also a source of wisdom and guidance for her sons. When Trelawney is struggling with his identity, Sanya gives him advice and support, explaining to him that his identity is something that he must figure out on his own. She also knows when to step back and let her sons make their own decisions, even if they are not the best ones. Sanya is also a source of warmth and love, always showing her sons compassion and understanding even when they do wrong.
Delano
Delano is the brother of Trelawney and the son of Topper and Sanya. He is a strong-willed and determined character who is willing to take risks to provide a better life for his family. He is also much more street-smart and aware than his brother, which helps him to navigate the dangerous streets of Miami. Delano is often seen as the "tough guy" of the family, but he is also a sensitive and caring person who loves his family deeply. An example of his determination and drive is seen when he attempts a 'cash grab' to get his kids back after they were taken away by welfare services. Delano also shows his loyalty and love for his family when he stands up for his cousin, Cukie, and protects him from the dangers of the street.
Cukie
Cukie is a thirteen-year-old boy and a cousin to Trelawney. He is a vibrant and determined personality. Even though he has been abandoned by his father, Cukie continues to look for him and longs for his approval. He is eager to please and is willing to go to extreme lengths, such as jumping into a river, to gain his father's attention. He is also very loyal to his family, particularly to Trelawney. Cukie admires Trelawney and looks up to him as an older brother, often seeking his advice and protection. He is independent and resourceful and is able to use his ingenuity to make money for himself. For example, he earns money by diving for coins at the local beach, and by selling ice pops to tourists.
Trelawney
Trelawney is the son of Topper and Sanya. He is a thoughtful and curious person who is constantly questioning his identity and his place in his family, as well as in society. Trelawney is a loyal son to his parents and often puts their needs before his own, as evidenced by his struggles to find a job and make enough money for his family during the 2008 recession. He is also a devoted brother to his older brother, Delano, and often helps him out in times of need. Despite his loyalty and devotion to his family, Trelawney is also a fiercely independent person who is not afraid to stand up for himself and his beliefs. He is compassionate as evidenced by his caring for his cousin Cukie and his attempts to understand his parents' difficult past.
Ox
Ox is a complex character who is driven by his compulsion to survive. He is a father who abandoned his son, Cukie, but also a man who is trying to make up for it. He is a talented musician who is passionate about his work and determined to make it in the music industry. Ox also struggles with his addiction to gambling, which further complicates his already strained relationship with his son. He often gets caught up in dangerous activities, such as illegal street racing.
