The unnamed boy acts as the central voice of the stories. He belongs to a Mexican migrant farming family in Texas and works to piece together his memories, dreams, and the experiences of his community. He holds deep doubts about traditional religious faith, keenly observes the injustices his people face, and tries to understand the complex adult world around him.

The narrator's mother is a deeply spiritual woman who clings to traditional beliefs. She experiences severe anxiety and panic attacks, making trips outside her home extremely difficult. Despite her fears, she loves her children immensely and attempts to brave overwhelming crowds to buy them Christmas toys.

An authority figure representing the farm owners and contractors who employ the Mexican migrant workers. He frequently prioritizes profit and control over the health and safety of the laborers. His presence creates a harsh and exploitative environment for the families working his fields.

A father in the community who commissions an artist to draw an image of his absent son, Chuy. He exhibits fierce dedication to his family, showing a willingness to hunt down anyone who takes advantage of his wife's grief.

A community member known for bootlegging and petty theft. While outwardly liked by many, he harbors an unsettling, manipulative nature. He uses his position of trust to pull the young narrator into his criminal activities.

Don Laíto's wife and partner in illicit activities. She delights in frightening the young narrator by jumping out at him unexpectedly. She works alongside her husband to manipulate the boy during his stay with them.

A father who works long hours in the fields to support his family. Because the farm owners forbid children in the fields, he leaves his young children at home. He hopes to teach them boxing skills so they might one day find success outside of farm labor.

Don Efraín's wife, who shares the heavy physical burden of agricultural labor. She constantly worries about leaving her children unattended while working and dislikes the violent nature of the boxing games her husband teaches them.

A young woman whose father wants her to finish her education. She desires personal freedom and new experiences. She enjoys the company of other men when she travels north for work, resisting the pressure to settle down immediately.

A young man intensely in love with Juanita. His deep affection turns to extreme possessiveness and despair when he realizes she will not submit to his demands for exclusive commitment.

A local poet who writes verses about the lives of the townspeople. He encourages the community to read his words aloud, believing that shared stories provide light and connection during difficult times.

Don Mateo's son. He serves in the Korean War, far from his family in Texas. His absence leaves his parents desperate for a physical reminder of him.

The eldest child of Don Efraín and Doña Chona. He cares for his younger siblings while his parents labor in the fields, attempting to mimic the boxing games his father taught him.

The middle child of the Garcia family. He stays home from the fields and plays with his siblings to pass the time while his parents are away.

The youngest child of the Garcia family. She plays boxing games with her brothers while their parents work in the fields.

A young man who associates with Juanita. His interactions with her anger Ramón, escalating the tension between the couple.

A man who performs in traditional Mexican shepherds' plays. He portrays the devil, wearing a black metal mask and red horns, sparking the narrator's early thoughts about religion and the supernatural.