A charismatic twelve-year-old who enrolls in Marlee’s school and forms a secret interracial friendship with her.

Marlee’s parents who initially have differing views on school integration but eventually unite in support of equal education.

The Nisbett family maid who becomes friendly with Marlee and educates her about the challenges faced by Black individuals in the South.

Marlee’s older siblings; David is supportive of Marlee’s dreams while Judy is protective and sent away during school tensions.

Marlee’s initial best friend and a quiet schoolmate who likes Marlee and communicates through written notes.

Liz’s light-skinned parents who are cautious about her friendship with Marlee due to racial risks but later allow them to stay in touch.

Betty Jean’s husband who is active in rallying support against school segregation in Little Rock.

A character who faces wrongful accusations and later becomes Liz’s boyfriend.

A couple where Mr. Dalton is associated with the Ku Klux Klan, while Mrs. Dalton eventually opposes her husband's views.

A charming classmate of Marlee who relies on her to complete his math homework and learns about ethical behavior.

The eldest Dalton son, known for being a bully and racist, who finds dynamite and has intentions of using it maliciously.