Breaking Night: A Memoir of Forgiveness, Survival, and My Journey from Homeless to Harvard

Lisa is Liz’s older sister by two years. For much of their childhood, they’re not particularly close, though Lisa does try to protect Liz when she can, such as when they’re at Ron’s house. Lisa ends up cutting herself off from the family, though, until Liz leaves to live on the streets. Then Lisa must step in and take care of Jeanie.

Jeanie is Liz and Lisa’s mother, who obviously loves both of her daughters but cannot stop using drugs. Abused as a child and homeless as a teen, Jeanie wants a better life for both of her children, but often falls back into drug abuse.

Peter also had a troubled childhood, and began using drugs as a way to cope with those past demons. As an addict, he, like Jeanie, cannot always perform the tasks of a dedicated and attentive parent. He’s intelligent and loves to read, and tries in Liz’s youth to maintain a relationship with her, though it fizzles out during her adolescence.

Sam is one of Liz’s best friends, and the main trigger for Liz to decide to leave Brick’s house and become homeless. Like Liz’s parents, Sam represents someone for Liz to care for and look after.