George

George is the dog Maddie finds after the city evacuates and he serves as a symbol of companionship and the support that can be found after tragedy. When Maddie begins to fear she is all alone in the world, she finds George, and he offers protection and kindness. He sleeps in the bed and watches television with her, reminding her of what it was like to have friends before she ended up on her own.

Paul

Paul is a symbol of regret and love in the novel. When Maddie had her stepfather around her and she was forced to share her space with him, she did not appreciate him. She often resisted saying goodnight to Paul and ignored him despite feeling shame and not knowing how to change her behavior. When she finds herself completely alone, she longs for even one chance to reach out to...