Five-Dollar Family Characters

The story’s protagonist Michelle is Des’s girlfriend and Jason’s mother. The story charts her evolution from a bewildered new mother to an assertive, competent one. Alongside this shift, the story also reflects Michelle’s… read analysis of Michelle

The story’s antagonist, Des, is Michelle’s boyfriend and Jason’s father. He has a lengthy criminal record—including several charges for aggravated assault. When the story begins, he’s days away from being sent to prison… read analysis of Des

Des’s father is a lighthearted man who glosses over Des’s criminality, affectionately deeming him “a bit of a naughty boy” and suggesting that it’s Michelle’s job to look out for him. The story… read analysis of Des’s Father

Like Des’s father, Des’s mother appears unconcerned with her son’s criminal behavior. Just as Des’s father depicts Des as a “naughty boy” rather than a criminal, Des’s mother frames her son’s community service… read analysis of Des’s Mother