Chance Taylor is the protagonist, main character, and narrator. The story is told in his voice, and his dangerous situation creates a climate of suspense throughout the novel. Because Chance engages in illicit activity that he knows may harm people, he also qualifies as an antihero—a literary status reinforced by his general attitude: He doesn’t try hard at school and regularly uses coarse language. He’s not optimistic and lacks the upbeat attitude typical of a hero. Yet Chance’s socioeconomic status justifies his conduct and makes him more of a hero and typical protagonist. His dad struggles with alcoholism, and money is a central issue. To pay for boat fees and other necessities, Chance accepts the “smuggling” job. He doesn’t do it to enrich himself but to help him and his dad afford basic things.

Chance is independent—his mom left him, and his dad is undependable, so he has to be self-reliant. Speaking to his mom’s friend about his choice to join the Army, he wonders,

[H]ow could I explain to her that I wanted somebody to give me orders, that I wanted somebody to tell me what to do? Kids like Melissa—they couldn’t wait to get out on their own, to make their own decisions.