Lupita is the protagonist of the novel, 13 years old at the beginning and 14 at the conclusion. Her family and those who know her in her hometown of Ensenada on the Baja peninsula of Mexico call her “Lupita Mañana” due to her continual practice of saying that tomorrow—mañana—things may be better. To some, particularly her parents, her forward-looking attitude is hopeful and positive. Her brother Salvador, however, finds it annoying and taunts her when especially negative things happen. Readers should not assume that Lupita is optimistic in a childlike, unrealistic manner. Rather, she is rooted in the real, often difficult circumstances of each day and convinces herself to continue moving forward cheerfully because something better is always a possibility.

Lupita is a loving person, who cherishes her family and honors them. She is religiously faithful and unquestioning. Lupita has the heart of a servant. It is only in the last few lines of the book that she asks for something just for her own betterment and independence. She is committed to caring for her mother, brothers, and sisters and will do whatever is necessary to protect and provide for them. As fits the classical, expected mold of the Mexican girl, she takes orders from her elders without resistance.