Carole is a young biracial girl traveling alone from her parents' home in Toronto to visit her grandparents. She considers herself a big girl and tries to behave like a young lady, carrying a purse and her doll. Her understanding of the world is innocent and uncomplicated by racial constructs until the adults sitting next to her begin questioning her background.

Mr. Henry Norton is a white passenger seated in the middle seat next to Carole on the airplane. He immediately violates her personal space by grabbing her belongings. He questions her relentlessly, demanding to know where she lives, where her parents are from, and what her racial background is.

Mrs. Betty Norton is traveling with her husband and sits on the aisle side of the row. She initially presents herself as a polite adult who chides her husband's rudeness. Her pleasant demeanor fades as the flight progresses, revealing her own deeply held prejudices through inappropriate questions directed at her young seatmate.

The unnamed stewardess works on the flight taking Carole from Toronto to her grandparents' home. She manages the cabin's safety and service, initially telling Carole she must wait to use the restroom during taxiing. She represents the only professional authority figure available to intervene during the uncomfortable flight.

Carole's father lives in Toronto. He provides a foundation of love and positive self-image for Carole, affectionately describing her clear complexion as "milk chocolate."

Carole's mother lives in Toronto. She sends her daughter on the flight to visit her grandparents, waving goodbye as the plane departs.

Amy is a Black doll belonging to Carole. Carole speaks to her, holds her hand for comfort, and relies on her for a sense of security while flying alone. The doll's appearance prompts the initial unwanted attention from the adult passengers.