Chasing the Falconers

Aiden is 15 years old, and according to his sister, Meg, he has curly hair and a geeky appearance that make him seem uncool. After Miguel cuts his hair to help disguise them from the police, Aiden looks older, more athletic, and more mature. He is the main protagonist in the novel, and much of the narration showcases his thoughts and perspectives. At the beginning of the novel, he is bored and bitter. He views Sunnydale Farm as “Alcatraz Junior,” full of young criminals and resentful staff members: “There was a kind of permanent anger in the people who worked there—probably from dealing with delinquents like Miguel day in and day out” (5). While he insists to himself that “[he doesn’t] belong with these criminals” (16), he worries that he will be corrupted by his peers.

He has few discernible special skills, though his grounded nature provides him with strong rationalizing skills and an ability to see the big picture. He relies on the expertise of Miguel, who he initially views as the closest thing to a hardened criminal at Sunnydale, and Meg, who he views as quick-witted and overly bold. According to Meg, Aiden is methodical to the point of being irritating, and he is far too concerned with obeying rules.