Adam Haslett’s debut novel, Union Atlantic, is anchored by its three central characters and their intertwining lives. Charlotte Graves, a retired history teacher, tenaciously guards her way of life even as change closes in around her. Doug Fanning, an ambitious banker used to getting his way, finds an unexpected but worthy foe in Charlotte. And Nate Fuller, a high school student just learning how to navigate the world’s complexities, finds himself caught between the two adults. In honor of the paperback publication of Union Atlantic,—and in honor of Charlotte, Doug, and Nate—we’ve asked Adam to pick five of his favorite literary characters. Check out his picks below, and click here to read an excerpt of Union Atlantic. You can also download a reading group guide by clicking here.