Sofia is the novel’s protagonist. She is a young, inquisitive girl who is not afraid to challenge her life and beliefs, but who wants to honor her family and friends as is customary in her culture. At the heart of her story is her ability to adapt to changes that challenge her beliefs, while learning that when she leaves home, her family and culture’s traditions become even dearer to her heart.

Sofia takes her cues in life from the rituals and traditions of her family’s Mexican American heritage. To that end, every season, holiday, or universal event, (like marriage or death), has a symbol or significant ceremonial aspect to it that allows Sofia to find meaning. From the cascarones to cleaning beans with her papa, Sofia finds a sense of home, loyalty, and love in the very nature of her family’s traditions.

It is these traditions that help her to navigate her family life and friendships as she faces one of the most difficult decisions in her life. Her main conflict is whether to attend the private school or stay home. In this regard, her character is defined by ambition, tempered by humility and faith.