Petra Pena

Petra is almost 13 years old as the novel opens. Her parents are Robert and Amy, both scientists. She has a younger brother named Javier. Petra is very close to her paternal grandmother Lita who tells wonderful stories. Lita's ability to tell stories has made Petra want to become a storyteller as well. Her parents want her to focus on science. Petra has an eye problem that makes it difficult to maneuver in many situations. When Halley's Comet is about to destroy Earth, Petra boards a spaceship with her parents and Javier. Because of a problem with the stasis program, Petra remains awake for a while. Because of the information she gathers during this time, she is at least slightly more prepared for the situation when she wakes.

Petra is strong and capable, but she is also young and hampered by her poor eyesight. She fills the role...