Shelley

Shelley - also known by his Chinese name Zheng Xie Li - is the main protagonist and narrator of the novel. Throughout the story, it becomes clear that Shelley is actually telling his story from the future once he has moved back to China. At the beginning, he dreams of becoming a poet as a promise to his girlfriend Lisbet and is certain she will come back for him. He essentially forces himself into Ted and Aviva’s life by offering to help take care of Henry, but they all bond overtime. Shelley’s positive attitude and passion for stories allows him to connect with most everyone, including Leo who refuses to speak to anyone except Shelley. Unfortunately, Shelley also lies a lot about his situation to his father, as he worries that his father or the rest of the family will be disappointed in his failure. He...