Characters

	Karen Bird Drifter from the Midwest who broke down in Fox (north of Fairbanks) en route to Prudhoe Bay, and subsequently moved in with Ben in his school bus until getting a housekeeping job with the Couviers.
	Ben Avery An engineering student and National Merit scholar (at least, according to him) who is presently living in an abandoned school bus in the woods. Claims to have a full-ride scholarship, but seems to be sort of a bum.
	Matt Heldiver Gun nut and general all-around scary neighbor who owns the land where Ben's old school bus is located. Karen talks him into letting them continue staying there if they pay rent. Has a soft spot for animals, dogs especially.
	Richard Couvier Matt's neighbor. A physics professor and atmospheric researcher at the university (specializes in studying the aurora borealis). Has three daughters from two marriages.
	Rainbow Moon Couvier Richard's middle daughter, age fourteen.
	Elizabeth (Liz) St. John Richard's current (and second) wife. Luna's mother.
	Luna Couvier Richard's youngest daughter, four years old.
	Winter Couvier Richard's oldest daughter.
	Gretchen St. John Liz's mother. Athabaskan. She's in politics and is active in various local causes.