The novel features the life of a 15-year-old boy, Carl Matt, and his dysfunctional family, who begin to suffer from physical and emotional problems after his mother's disappearance.

In the end, it is discovered that Kerry Matt died in a bus accident when she was trying to get home to her children, Sarah, Harley and Carl.

Once this is unearthed, Carl returns home to find that Aunt Beryl has run off in true Matt spirit to join her boyfriend, Bruce.

Harley Matt - Little brother of Carl and Sarah, who spends most his time outside on his bike, unless he is called to eat.

Skip initially is reluctant to hire Carl as he is a Matt, but begins to trust and eventually rely on him.

Skip is bossy and stubborn and earns little income from his business of ferrying cars across the cove.

She only took them under her wing due to the welfare payment which had been redirected to her address, and forced Carl out of school to be employed in order for them to remain in the household.

Justine Ivanov - The best friend of Maddie Duncan, and later the girlfriend of Carl Matt, is referred to as ‘a queen at making pizza’.