John is a boy growing up in Gravesend, New Hampshire, during the 1950s. He lives in a prominent local family with his mother and grandmother but does not know the identity of his biological father. He relies heavily on his friendship with his classmate, following his lead in both childhood games and intellectual pursuits. Cautious by nature, he prefers to observe rather than act impulsively.

Owen is a highly intelligent boy from a working-class family that operates a local granite quarry. He possesses a remarkably small physical frame and speaks in a distinctive voice. He harbors a fierce belief in God and views himself as a divinely chosen instrument. He is academically gifted, witty, and fiercely opinionated about both theology and school politics.

Tabitha is an attractive, cheerful woman living in Gravesend with her mother and son. She works as a talented seamstress, creating her own clothing, and travels frequently for vocal training. She keeps the identity of her son's biological father a strict secret. Her vibrant personality makes her popular among both adults and children in the community.

Dan is a quiet, unassuming history teacher at Gravesend Academy. He directs the local amateur theater group, frequently organizing the annual production of A Christmas Carol. He approaches his role as a stepfather with patience and understanding, establishing immediate rapport with young children through his gentle humor.

Hester is an outspoken, physically aggressive girl who grows up in rural New Hampshire. She frequently dominates her siblings and cousins through intimidation and brash behavior. As she grows older, she channels her fierce energy into political awareness, actively protesting the United States' military policies. She communicates her affections primarily through abrasive teasing.

Harriet is a wealthy descendant of the town's founders, maintaining a large estate and a staff of domestic workers. She takes pride in her aristocratic heritage and insists on preserving traditional social structures. Despite her rigid exterior, she develops unexpected affinities, particularly for television programs and certain exceptional individuals outside her social class.

Reverend Merrill is a meek, reserved minister defined in part by a persistent speech impediment. He approaches theology with an emphasis on doubt, frequently debating the literal nature of biblical miracles. He provides a listening ear to students, acting as an intellectual sounding board for their spiritual questions.

Randolph White is a former businessman turned school administrator. He prioritizes fundraising and rigid discipline over student expression. He possesses a quick temper and harbors a strong distaste for student journalism.

Mr. Meany is a local businessman who runs a granite business. He resides in a home filled with stone dust and operates on the margins of Gravesend's elite society. He harbors deeply specific, unusual religious beliefs regarding his family.

Mrs. Meany is a reclusive, silent woman who rarely leaves her home. She spends her days indoors, completely enveloped in the dusty environment of her husband's granite business. She is highly protective of her personal space.

Noah is a boisterous, physically active boy from rural New Hampshire. He later attends Gravesend Academy, where he struggles with the rigorous academic curriculum. He enjoys playing pranks and engaging in chaotic games.

Simon is a loud and energetic youth who thrives in the chaotic environment of the Eastman household. Like his brother, he eventually attends Gravesend Academy. He spends his summers boating and exploring the rural outdoors.

Martha is a capable, busy mother raising three highly energetic children in Sawyer Depot. She maintains a lively, noisy household centered around winter skiing and summer lake activities.

Mary Beth is a quiet, cooperative girl in the local Sunday School. She takes her roles in church activities seriously and attempts to maintain order during chaotic performances. She possesses a pragmatic approach to problem-solving.

Barb is the energetic wife of the Episcopalian rector. She coordinates the annual Sunday School Christmas pageant with an insistence on reverence and order. She frequently becomes flustered when plans go awry.

Mr. Chickering is a dedicated youth sports coach who manages the local baseball diamond. He attempts to adapt his coaching strategies to accommodate children of varying physical abilities. He carries a deep sense of responsibility for the safety of his players.

Lydia is a longtime domestic employee in the Wheelwright household. Due to her failing health, she can no longer perform strenuous physical labor but is kept on the payroll out of loyalty. She spends her final days being read to by other staff members.

Germaine is a young maid working in a prominent Gravesend household. She is highly superstitious and easily frightened by unusual sounds. She spends her working hours reading to her elderly coworker.

Harold is an awkward, heavy-set boy in the local Sunday School class. He is prone to forgetting his lines and panicking under pressure. He physically struggles with the demands of theatrical rigging.

Mr. Fish is a dramatic neighbor who enthusiastically participates in local plays. He owns an energetic dog named Sagamore and enjoys playing football in his yard. He takes his amateur acting career very seriously.

Father Findley is a Catholic priest managing the local religious institution. He maintains the school's property, including its prominent religious statues, and occasionally fields questions from local teenagers.

Graham is a professional singing instructor who trains students in the city. He has a keen ear for vocal irregularities and understands the anatomy of the human voice. He retains precise memories of his former students.

Major Rawls is a pragmatic, observant military officer stationed stateside. He handles logistical duties regarding fallen soldiers with a calm, authoritative demeanor. He is quick to react in dangerous situations.

Dick is an emotionally unstable teenager grieving a family member. He harbors a dangerous fascination with weaponry and military combat. He acts erratically and aggressively in public spaces.