Jonathan Safran Foer: A young Jewish-American writer traveling to Ukraine in search of his grandfather’s past and the woman, Augustine, who saved him from the Nazis. He is introspective and serves as a narrator for parts of the novel.

Alex Perchov: Jonathan’s Ukrainian guide and translator. He narrates sections of the story in broken English and undergoes significant character development, growing from a superficial young man to someone deeply reflective about truth and family.

Grandfather (Alexander Perchov): Alex’s grandfather, who pretends to be blind. He is the driver for the journey and harbors guilt over his actions during World War II.

Sammy Davis Jr. Jr.: Grandfather’s seeing-eye dog, a quirky and loyal companion on the journey.

Historical/Secondary Characters

Lista: An elderly woman believed to be Augustine at first. She is the last survivor of Trachimbrod and serves as a keeper of its memory through her collection of artifacts.

Augustine: The mysterious woman who saved Jonathan’s grandfather during the Holocaust. Her identity remains ambiguous, symbolizing human goodness and sacrifice.

Trachimbrod Characters (Historical Narrative)

Brod: Jonathan’s distant ancestor, found as a baby in the Brod River. She represents resilience amidst tragedy.

Yankel: Brod’s adoptive father, a disgraced moneylender who raises her with love despite his own hardships.

Safran: Jonathan’s grandfather, known for his charm and promiscuity before the war. He is central to Jonathan’s quest.

The Gypsy Girl: Safran’s lover before his marriage. She tragically commits suicide during the Nazi bombing of Trachimbrod.