Nate is a sixth grader at P.S. 38 who firmly believes he is destined for greatness. He possesses a highly active imagination and extreme self-confidence, frequently drawing comics in his notebook to express his frustrations. Despite his academic struggles and frequent clashes with authority, he maintains an unrelenting optimism and a strong desire to fulfill a mysterious fortune cookie prophecy.

Francis is Nate's next-door neighbor and highly intelligent best friend. He enjoys learning and strictly follows the rules, often acting as a grounded counterweight to his friend's wilder schemes. He readily offers support and logic when needed, even if he disapproves of the methods being used.

Teddy transferred to P.S. 38 midyear and bonded with Nate over a mishap in science class. He frequently jokes and teases his friends, providing a calming and honest influence when situations become overwhelming. He generously shares his leftover Chinese food, kicking off the day's central quest.

Gina is a dedicated student and the teacher's pet of P.S. 38. She actively seeks approval from adults by pointing out the misbehavior of her peers. Her focus on perfection and adult recognition often isolates her from her classmates.

Mrs. Godfrey is the strict social studies teacher at P.S. 38. She maintains tight control over her classroom and is quick to issue discipline for disruptive behavior. She keeps a particularly critical eye on uncooperative students, utilizing public reprimands rather than private conversations.

Artur is a polite and well-liked exchange student. He is naturally talented at various activities including chess, singing, and drawing. His effortless success and relationship status make him a target of intense, one-sided jealousy from less talented classmates.

Marty is a father trying to instill good habits in his household. He serves lumpy oatmeal for breakfast and attempts to engage his children in conversation about their school days. His probing questions often cause his son to flee the house rather than talk.

Ellen is a fifteen-year-old high school student whose responsible nature earns her constant praise. Her success and easy relationship with their father make her a frequent, frustrating point of comparison for her younger brother.

Jenny is a middle school student who has been the subject of an unrequited crush for five years. She generally acts dismissive toward her admirer and remains focused on her current relationship.

Principal Nichols oversees P.S. 38 and enforces discipline throughout the building. He dislikes horseplay and frequently issues lengthy lectures comparing misbehaving students to their more successful siblings.

Mr. Rosa is the art teacher at P.S. 38. He selects exceptional student artwork for public display and has little patience for frivolous interruptions during his lessons.

Ms. Clarke teaches English and encourages her students to find inspiration from the heart. She tries to support creative expression but quickly issues discipline when students yell in her classroom.

Mr. Staples is the math teacher at P.S. 38. He typically maintains a lighthearted classroom environment but occasionally surprises his students with strict pop quizzes.

Coach John is an aggressive substitute physical education teacher. He yells frequently and demands immediate compliance, lacking patience for any perceived mockery from his students.

Mr. Galvin teaches science and holds a school-wide reputation for never smiling or laughing. He runs a quiet classroom and quickly confiscates unauthorized materials.

Mrs. Czerwicki is the detention monitor at P.S. 38. She tracks student infractions and grudgingly confirms when someone breaks a school disciplinary record.

Spitsy is a heavily accessorized neighborhood dog who constantly wears a cone and a sweater. He is afraid of mail carriers and cannot fetch, but he functions as a reliable listener for local children.