Charlie is a 12-year-old boy grappling with the sudden loss of his father. He initially retreats into superhero comic books and isolation, trying to avoid his grief and his mother's attempts to connect. Sent to spend the summer with his grandparents in Washington, DC, he is pushed to reconnect with the world through daily chores, morning walks, and practicing basketball at the Boys and Girls Club.

Skinny is one of Charlie's childhood friends, characterized by his love for 1980s pop culture, especially Michael Jackson music and Air Jordan sneakers. He uses humor and a loud ego to mask his own struggles, particularly the absence of his father. Though loyal to Charlie, he is highly impressionable and frequently makes careless decisions that lead them both into trouble.

CJ is Charlie's close childhood friend who is highly intelligent, observant, and scientifically minded. She is deeply attuned to the emotions of others, particularly Charlie's struggles with grief. She consistently tries to help Charlie process his feelings rather than ignore them, bringing him a journal and supporting him during his assigned summer chores.

Charlie’s hardworking, grieving mother. Following her husband's death, she tries to keep her own emotions in check to remain strong for her son. This stoicism inadvertently strains her relationship with Charlie, leading her to send him to his grandparents' house for the summer so they can both find space to process their trauma.

Charlie's paternal grandfather, a retired man who dedicates his mornings to working at the Boys and Girls Club. He believes strongly in the healing power of hard work, discipline, and routine. He takes a firm approach to mentoring Charlie, using yard work and basketball metaphors to teach life lessons about accountability.

Charlie's paternal grandmother, who provides a warm, nurturing counterpoint to her husband's strictness. She shows her love through home-cooked meals like fried chicken, physical affection, and creating a safe environment for her family. She plays a crucial role in helping Charlie express his suppressed sadness.

Charlie’s recently deceased father. Prior to his sudden medical emergency, he was a pillar of his community, teaching adult literacy by day and working at an alternative school by night. His profound impact on those around him means his absence deeply affects his entire family.

Roxie is Charlie’s athletic and highly competitive cousin living in Washington, DC. She is a dedicated basketball player who spends hours practicing her shots at the gym. She acts as an informal coach to Charlie, teaching him the fundamentals of the game and helping him regain his confidence on the court.

Skinny's older cousin who has previously spent time in a juvenile detention center. He hangs out with a questionable crowd, engages in risky behaviors, and serves as a highly negative influence on the younger boys in his orbit.

An elderly neighbor in Charlie's hometown who is the subject of many menacing local rumors among the children. Despite her frightening reputation, she proves to be practical and forgiving, willing to give Charlie a chance to make amends for his behavior by walking her large dog.

Old Lady Wilson’s exceptionally large, female Great Dane, originally named Woodrow Wilson until CJ decides to rename her. Blind in one eye, she requires regular exercise, providing Charlie with his first mandated summer chore and a lesson in responsibility.

Percy Bell's friend and the local police chief in Washington, DC. He is a familiar presence around the Bell household who trades jokes with Percy, though his profession adds a layer of seriousness to his presence in the community.

Roxie's father and Charlie's uncle. He shares a similar laugh with his deceased brother, Joshua. He treats Roxie and Charlie to a Harlem Globetrotters game as a reward for Roxie's excellent grades.