Bixby Alexander Tam is a third-grade boy at Saw Whet School who prefers to go by his initials. As a boy on the autism spectrum, he experiences sensory sensitivities and relies on strict routines to manage his daily life. He communicates differently than his peers and often struggles to interpret social cues. He dreams of becoming a veterinarian like his mother and instantly bonds with an orphaned baby skunk brought into their home.

Valerie is a capable veterinarian who runs her own clinic. Following her divorce, she provides a structured, supportive home life for her two children. When an injured pregnant skunk is brought to her clinic, she saves the surviving newborn kit and brings him home for temporary care, sparking her son's intense dedication to the animal.

Janie is an outgoing elementary school student at Robert E. Willett Elementary. She has a strong passion for theater and prepares to audition for the role of the Queen in her school's production of *Alice in Wonderland*. She is given considerable responsibility for her younger brother despite her young age.

Bat and Janie's father shares custody of his children, hosting them at his apartment on alternating weekends. He generally expects his children to adapt to his lifestyle and interests rather than making specific accommodations for their individual preferences or sensory needs.

Mr. Grayson teaches a third-grade class at Saw Whet School. He manages his classroom with exceptional compassion, allowing students bodily autonomy, snack breaks, and the freedom to visit the class pet when they feel overwhelmed. His unconventional methods create a deeply secure environment for his students.

Israel is a student in Mr. Grayson's class. He demonstrates consistent friendliness toward his classmates, maintaining an active interest in forming a connection with Bat despite occasional miscommunications.

Laurence works as a veterinary technician at Valerie's clinic. He is a large, gentle man who helps care for the animals, treating visitors to the clinic with patience and respect.

Thor is a newborn skunk kit rescued by Valerie after his pregnant mother is hit by a car. Named by Janie after the Norse god, the kit requires constant warmth and puppy formula fed through a syringe.

Dr. Jerry Dragoo is a real-life skunk expert and head of the Dragoo Institute for the Betterment of Skunks and Skunk Reputations. He receives an email requesting advice on keeping a pet skunk.

Ezra is a neighborhood boy who shares creative interests with his friends. He is loud and loves to tease, traits that endear him to his peers but cause friction with others.

Lucca is a student in Mr. Grayson's class at Saw Whet School. She interacts with her classmates during breaks and experiences embarrassment when social interactions go awry.

Babycakes is a white Angora rabbit serving as the class pet in Mr. Grayson's room. The rabbit operates as an approachable friend and a calming presence for students who need a sensory break from the classroom environment.