A sophomore and co-writer for the school newspaper who acts as the protagonist. After writing a jealous article about Assaf, he discovers the principal's forgery, survives the sinking school, leads a group to the roof, and co-authors a book about the disaster.
Their close friendship is strained by jealousy but ultimately survives the disaster.
The plot identifies Dash and Assaf as best friends and sophomore co-writers for the school newspaper.
She is both Dash's friend and the editor of his shared writing project.
Verti is the mutual friend who edits the school newspaper written by Dash and Assaf.
Grimm exercises institutional authority over Dash and directly escalates their conflict.
Principal Grimm puts a mark on Dash's permanent record after Dash writes a hurtful article about Assaf.
Their shared punishment becomes the basis for cooperation during the sinking.
Dash and Mary are thrown into detention together after breaking into the school archives.
Lorraine saves Dash's life and becomes a protective guide for the survivors.
Dash nearly drowns after the school sinks, and Lunch Lady Lorraine rescues him.