Maggie is a confident and intelligent third grader who considers herself to be a gifted and talented student. When her parents laugh at her apprehension about learning cursive writing, her feelings are hurt, prompting a stubborn refusal to participate in the lessons. She insists that printing and typing are perfectly sufficient, setting off a battle of wills with her parents and teachers.

Mrs. Leeper is a third-grade teacher tasked with introducing her students to cursive handwriting. She takes a firm but positive approach to classroom management, often telling her students she wants to be a "happy teacher." She actively attempts to correct Maggie's flawed handwriting and meets with Maggie's mother to address the behavioral issues.

Mrs. Schultz is Maggie’s mother, a fitness instructor who stays at home with her daughter. She is an affectionate parent who calls Maggie "Angelface" and tries to listen to her concerns. However, her attempts to motivate Maggie with brisk positivity often backfire, making her daughter even more resistant to instruction.

Mr. Schultz is an office worker and Maggie’s attentive father. He playfully calls his daughter "Goldilocks" and occasionally brings her small gifts from his workplace. When Maggie refuses to practice her cursive, he acts as the household disciplinarian by banning her from using the computer until she cooperates.

Mr. Galloway is the gentle and thoughtful principal at Maggie’s elementary school. Rather than harshly scolding Maggie for her refusal to learn cursive, he asks her simple questions to understand the root of her behavior. He communicates with Maggie's parents about her lack of motivation.

Ms. Madden is a secretary who works for Maggie's father. She frequently sends Maggie small presents, such as a new pen, making her one of Maggie's favorite adults. However, her professional standards regarding neatness soon clash with Maggie's poor penmanship.

Jo Ann is a third grader and Maggie's close friend. Despite their friendship, they are assigned to sit at different tables in Mrs. Leeper's classroom. She eventually questions Maggie's ability to learn cursive, which hurts Maggie's pride.

Kisser is the Schultz family's pet dog. He provides Maggie with a source of unconditional love and comfort, particularly when she feels misunderstood or alienated by her parents and teachers.

Kirby is one of Maggie's classmates who watches her conflict with Mrs. Leeper. He occasionally teases Maggie regarding her behavior and interactions with the teacher.

Courtney is a third-grade student in Mrs. Leeper's class. She represents the peer pressure Maggie faces, openly expressing the opinion that Maggie is acting immaturely by refusing to participate in the handwriting lessons.

Kelly is another of Maggie's classmates who forms negative opinions about Maggie's stubbornness. She contributes to the classroom atmosphere that makes Maggie feel insecure about her academic reputation.