Sasha is the protagonist of the story who creates problems for his family by forging checks. One of Sasha's uncles, the Colonel, wants to help Sasha get out of trouble in memory of Sasha's deceased mother. Antagonists in the story include Sasha's family members who want him to face consequences, as well as Sasha himself as he struggles with becoming a criminal. The story shows Sasha's character developing when he realizes for the first time that he is a criminal.