Zan
Zan is the chimp who is experimented on throughout the story. Behavioral psychologist Richard Tomlin teaches Zan American Sign Language (ASL). Zan was introduced to the Tomlin family when he was only days old. His relationship with Ben has developed significantly, which made it hard for him to separate from Ben. |
Ben Tomlin
Ben is a thirteen year old boy who's perspective is represented throughout the book, Half Brother. He is a slow learner, whose grades aren't the highest. His relationship with his father is quite complicated, however, he loves his younger brother Zan. He is willing to risk anything for Zan- even it means jeopardizing other relationships. |
Richard Tomlin
Richard Tomlin, a behavioral psychologist, is teaching Zan how to learn language. His relationship with his son is complex, nevertheless he cares for Ben. He is slightly tedious at times, and sometimes intimidating. He cares for his projects, and puts a great deal of effort into his work. Jennifer Godwin
Jennifer Godwin, is Ben's romantic interest throughout most of the book. Her relationship with Ben was more wanted on Ben's side as realized near the end of the book, Jennifer had feelings for Hugh all along. Shannon
Shannon, is one of Jennifer Godwin's best friends. She is said to be talkative, loud, and not as attractive as her other two friends in the book. Ben does not take a liking to Shannon as he finds that she is getting in the way of his and Jennifer's relationship. Later on it is found out that she has feelings for Ben. |
Sarah Tomlin
Sarah Tomlin, Ben's mother, is currently writing her thesis about a topic that is similar to her husband's experimentation. Therefore, she helps out as a co-worker to teach Zan language. She is quite supportive of Ben and his feelings, but understands when it is appropriate to stand up for what is right. David Godwin
David Godwin, the older brother of Jennifer Godwin, becomes friends with Ben through the Time Magazine Photoshoot. He is one of the popular guys in school and is admired by Ben near the beginning of the book. Tim Borden
Tim Borden, is Ben's first friend. Tim has a gang of friends who are daredevils. One of them, Mike, doesn't like Ben perhaps because of feelings of jealousy as he might think that Tim has a soft spot for Ben. Tim is an all around good guy and comes to Ben's rescue when he's being shot by Mike. |