"Something like Normal" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In "Something like Normal" by Trish Doller, the story revolves around Travis Stephenson, the protagonist. He is a young Marine who has recently returned from serving in Afghanistan. Other significant characters include Harper Gracin, Travis's love interest, and Charlie Stephenson, Travis's brother.

Character Descriptions

Travis Stephenson

Travis Stephenson is a 19-year-old Marine who has experienced the harsh realities of war in Afghanistan. He is described as having a lean and muscular build, with short-cropped hair and intense blue eyes. Travis carries himself with a stoic demeanor, often masking his emotions behind a tough exterior.

Harper Gracin

Harper Gracin is a 17-year-old high school student who becomes a beacon of hope in Travis's life. She has wavy chestnut hair, expressive green eyes, and a warm smile. Harper is compassionate, intelligent, and possesses a strong sense of justice.

Charlie Stephenson

Charlie Stephenson is Travis's younger brother. He is a typical teenager, rebellious and slightly mischievous. Charlie has a lanky frame, messy brown hair, and a mischievous grin. He looks up to Travis but also struggles with the changes his brother has undergone since returning from war.

Lisa Stephenson

Lisa Stephenson is Travis and Charlie's mother. She is a hardworking woman who tries her best to support her sons. Lisa has shoulder-length brown hair and a caring disposition. She worries for Travis's well-being and often tries to bridge the gap between him and Charlie.

Jack Gracin

Jack Gracin is Harper's father and a veteran himself. He is a middle-aged man with graying hair and a strong presence. Jack understands the challenges Travis faces as a returning soldier and acts as a guiding figure for both Travis and Harper.

Will Gracin

Will Gracin is Harper's older brother, who tragically lost his life serving in the military. Although he does not physically appear in the story, his memory and the impact of his loss shape the dynamics between Travis and Harper.

Character Traits

Travis Stephenson

Travis is resilient, self-sacrificing, and haunted by the trauma of war. He struggles with PTSD, survivor's guilt, and the loss of his best friend. Travis often feels disconnected from the world and finds solace in the routine and discipline of military life.

Harper Gracin

Harper is compassionate, empathetic, and determined. She is passionate about social justice and actively participates in community service. Harper's kindness and understanding allow her to see beyond Travis's tough exterior and reach out to him.

Charlie Stephenson

Charlie is curious, rebellious, and resilient. He idolizes Travis but is also frustrated by the changes he sees in him. Charlie navigates his own challenges as a teenager while trying to understand his brother's experiences and reconnect with him.

Lisa Stephenson

Lisa is loving, supportive, and protective of her sons. She works hard to provide for them and tries to bridge the gap between Travis and Charlie. Lisa worries about Travis's emotional well-being and seeks guidance on how to help him.

Jack Gracin

Jack is wise, understanding, and steadfast. As a veteran himself, he recognizes the struggles Travis faces and acts as a mentor figure. Jack offers guidance and support to both Travis and Harper, helping them navigate their complex emotions.

Character Background

Travis Stephenson

Travis grew up in a small town in Florida, where he was an average teenager until he joined the Marines after high school. His decision to enlist was partly influenced by his best friend, who tragically lost his life in combat. Travis's time in Afghanistan changed him, and he struggles to readjust to civilian life.

Harper Gracin

Harper has lived in the same town her whole life. She comes from a military family, with her father and brother having served. Harper's older brother, Will, died while serving, which deeply impacted her and her family. She is determined to make a positive impact in the world and fights for social justice causes.

Charlie Stephenson

Charlie is Travis's younger brother and has lived in the same town his entire life. He idolizes Travis and wants to emulate him, but he also struggles with the changes he sees in his brother after his return from war. Charlie tries to find his own path while navigating the challenges of adolescence.

Lisa Stephenson

Lisa is a hardworking single mother who has dedicated her life to raising her two sons. She has seen the toll that war has taken on Travis and tries her best to support him and bridge the gap between him and Charlie. Lisa's love and concern for her family drive her actions throughout the story.

Jack Gracin

Jack is a military veteran who has served his country and understands the challenges faced by soldiers like Travis. He has a strong bond with his daughter, Harper, and sees potential in Travis. Jack serves as a guiding figure, offering support and wisdom to both Travis and Harper.

Character Arcs

Travis Stephenson

Travis's character arc revolves around his journey of healing and finding a sense of normalcy after war. Initially, Travis is emotionally detached and struggles with anger and guilt. Through his relationship with Harper and the support of his family and Jack, Travis learns to confront his past, face his emotions, and find hope for the future.

Harper Gracin

Harper's character arc is about understanding the impact of loss and finding strength and connection with Travis. She starts off as a compassionate and determined individual, but her interactions with Travis deepen her understanding of the complexities of war and its effects on soldiers and their families. Harper learns to empathize with Travis and finds love and healing in their relationship.

Charlie Stephenson

Charlie's character arc revolves around his growth as an individual and his developing relationship with Travis. Initially, Charlie idolizes Travis but struggles to understand the changes in him. Through their shared experiences and communication, Charlie learns to see Travis as more than just a soldier, and their bond strengthens as they navigate the difficulties of war and its aftermath together.

Relationships

Travis and Harper

Travis and Harper's relationship is a significant aspect of the story. Their connection grows from initial curiosity to understanding and love. Harper's empathy and unwavering support help Travis confront his trauma, and their relationship becomes a source of healing for both characters.

Travis and Charlie

Travis and Charlie share a complex sibling relationship. Charlie looks up to Travis but also struggles with the changes he sees in him. Over time, they learn to communicate and understand each other better, strengthening their bond as brothers.

Travis and Lisa

Travis's relationship with his mother, Lisa, is characterized by her love and concern for him. Lisa tries to bridge the gap between Travis and Charlie and supports Travis in his journey of healing.

Travis and Jack

Jack serves as a mentor figure for Travis, offering guidance and understanding. Jack's own experiences as a veteran provide a unique perspective that helps Travis in his path towards healing.

Harper and Jack

Harper and Jack share a father-daughter bond. Jack's wisdom and understanding help Harper navigate her own grief and provide support for Travis.

Conclusion

In "Something like Normal" by Trish Doller, the characters play essential roles in the exploration of the effects of war on individuals and their relationships. Travis, Harper, Charlie, Lisa, Jack, and Will (through his memory) contribute to a compelling narrative of healing, understanding, and love. Through their interactions and character arcs, the story delves into themes of resilience, family dynamics, and the power of human connection in the face of adversity.