The protagonist of the novel, Lale is the titular tattooist of Auschwitz. He is a complex character with a knack for survival. Early on, it becomes apparent that he is both inspirational and selfless. Lale volunteered to be taken to the labor camps in accordance with a new Nazi decree that mandated all Jewish families send one person over the age of 18 to be subjugated to forced labor. He did this under the assumption that he was keeping his family safe. Lale has a strong moral code, especially concerning women. It is difficult for him to adjust to life in Birkenau due to the fact that survival in such inhumane conditions often means bending one’s principles.

Early on in his imprisonment in Birkenau, Lale falls ill with Typhus. When he recovers, he finds his survival is due to the careful attention of his friend, Aron, and Pepan, the tattooist of Auschwitz. Lale becomes Pepan’s assistant, eventually becoming the head tattooist when Pepan is disappeared. Lale is presided over by the SS officer, Baretski, and works alongside his assistant, Leon. Tattooing prisoners is antithetical to Lale’s moral nature, but it is a means of survival to which he eventually adapts.