Ben is an imaginative and enthusiastic eight-year-old boy whose absolute favorite food is noodles. He tends to take things literally and think about big concepts. After receiving a fortune cookie instructing him to live each day as if it were his last, he approaches his daily activities with intense urgency and determination, keeping a physical list of things he wants to experience.

Janet is Ben's best friend and next-door neighbor. She is generally more practical and logical than Ben, though she maintains a childlike belief in curses and local superstitions. She joins Ben in his adventurous day, balancing his impulsivity with caution while deciding to tackle long-avoided tasks.

Ben's father is an empathetic and supportive parent who quickly adopts his son's perspective on living life to the fullest. He balances a naturally panicky, cautious demeanor with a strong desire to enjoy shared experiences with his family. His tendency to jump into action results in spontaneous romantic gestures for his wife.

Ben's mother is a practical and responsible woman who tries to maintain order in the household. She becomes stressed when things go wrong, particularly when attempting to recreate complicated family recipes. She deeply loves her family and actively encourages Ben to take accountability for his actions.

Mrs. Ezra is an elderly neighbor who the local children suspect is a witch. In reality, she is an observant and welcoming woman who enjoys playing the piano and sharing her apples. She provides a calming presence and practical wisdom to the neighborhood during chaotic moments.

Aunt Nora is Ben's aunt, a woman frequently preoccupied with her phone and social media presence. Her distraction during dinner allows Ben to eat extra food and prompts the arrival of the fortune cookies that change his day.

Mona is a classmate of Ben's who recently suffered a minor injury after Ben accidentally hit her with a Wiffle ball. She is easily impressed by Ben's scooter tricks and eager to try new activities, sometimes acting recklessly.

Mona's mother is highly protective of her daughter and quick to anger when she perceives Mona is in danger. She distrusts Ben following his accidental injury of her daughter and is vocal about her grievances.

Mr. Hoggenweff is a grouchy neighbor who takes great pride in his yard, particularly his hedges and painted rocks. He is easily irritated by the neighborhood children and quick to demand reparations for any perceived property damage.

Janet's mother is an affectionate parent who encourages her daughter's self-expression. She carries grief over the loss of her husband but remains supportive and unconditionally loving toward Janet.

Janet's late father passed away in a car accident prior to the events of the story. His unfinished latch hook rug remains a significant emotional anchor for Janet as she tries to complete it in his memory.

Patty is Ben's five-year-old neighbor. She is largely unimpressed by Ben's frantic antics but is willing to lend him her bicycle in exchange for a bribe of marshmallows.

Eli is Patty's baby brother, who silently observes the older children's chaotic activities in the neighborhood.

Dumbles is the Yokoyama family dog. He is easily distracted by treats and prone to howling, which accidentally contributes to the late-night chaos in the house.