One of the four protagonists in Stranded, 11-year-old Carter Benson is the most resistant and belligerent of the four siblings and has the most difficulty adjusting to having two new half-siblings, alluding to the theme of Forging a Blended Family. Still, Carter is a natural leader, and doesn’t let these petty conflicts get in the way of an opportunity to guide the group: “Their mother always said he was part beagle, the way he liked to be at the front of the pack, no matter what he was doing” (71). Carter is resourceful, skilled at physical tasks, and knows how to find courage, which supports the theme of Bravery as a Tool for Survival. Most of the time, Carter maintains a brave face for the sake of the group, but he has moments of vulnerability and fear.

Carter is somewhat antagonistic in that he occasionally blames Buzz or Vanessa for his problems, and he always makes it clear to Vanessa that he doesn’t want her help or advice. He takes charge, protects the others, and looks toward adventure and risk with courage and confidence. Carter occasionally acts out of impulse, like when he runs away from the group on the first night or when he dives into the river with Jane and gets swept away.