Denny is a 30-year-old neurodivergent man who lives a quiet, sheltered life in Woodmont, Minnesota. He works for the Department of Transportation alongside his cousin, Angus. Denny relies on a rigid set of rules, routines, and literal interpretations of the world, often singing the theme song from *Toy Story* to self-soothe during moments of anxiety. Following a chaotic sledding accident involving his late grandfather's firearms, he is arrested and charged with murder, forcing him to meticulously record the events of the past year to aid his legal defense.

Joanne Voss, affectionately known as Nana-Jo, is Denny's loving adoptive mother. A pragmatic, working-class woman, she has worked as a house cleaner for the Tesky family for over two decades. She provides Denny with essential life skills, daily routines, and fierce protection, frequently wearing her signature pink foam curlers at home. When her health begins to decline, she attempts to push Denny toward greater independence, recognizing that she cannot protect him forever.

Angus is Denny’s older cousin and his direct supervisor at the Department of Transportation. Cynical, blunt, and world-weary, he frequently acts as a translator for Denny, explaining social situations that Denny finds confusing. Though Angus complains about his life, harbors resentment over past firings, and runs an illegal marijuana operation in his basement, he remains fiercely protective of his family.

Henry Tesky is a wealthy local businessman and mayoral candidate in Woodmont. He is obsessed with his public image, carefully cultivating a reputation for integrity and hard work. In private, he is narcissistic and cruel, frequently bullying and exploiting those around him, including Denny and Nana-Jo. His abrasive behavior and long history of mistreating the Voss family make his murder the central mystery of the novel.

Lydia is Nana-Jo's estranged daughter, who grew up alongside Denny. She lives in New York City and works as an award-winning photographer, leading a sophisticated life far removed from Woodmont. Her frequent absences, past selfishness, and emotional distance cause significant tension within the family, leaving Denny feeling deeply resentful of her attempts to reconnect.

Bridget is the court-appointed defense attorney assigned to represent Denny. Young and relatively inexperienced, she views Denny's high-profile murder trial as her first major case. Despite pressure to have Denny plead guilty based on limited capacity, she possesses a sharp legal mind, genuinely believes in his innocence, and patiently works to understand his unique perspective.

Dr. Harland is the court-appointed therapist tasked with evaluating Denny while he awaits trial. Patient and methodical, he provides Denny with a blue notebook and encourages him to write down his memories. He actively listens to Denny's unconventional storytelling, helping him structure chaotic recollections into a coherent narrative for the defense team.

Nori is a single mother and the new owner of the local laundromat. A former Frito-Lay delivery driver who once had an awkward run-in with Denny, she allows him to make a fresh start while he washes her windows. She offers him genuine, non-judgmental friendship and welcomes him into her family's life.

Theo is Nori's six-year-old son, who has Tourette's syndrome. He struggles with bullying from his peers and lacks confidence, particularly at his swimming lessons. He bonds quickly with Denny, who provides empathetic support and a calming presence that helps the boy face his anxieties.

George is a blind and deaf Saint Bernard that Denny rescued from a local shelter's euthanasia list. Previously abused by a backyard breeder, the dog requires special care but provides Denny with constant, uncomplicated affection. He serves as Denny's closest companion and emotional anchor.

Elaine is a kind, loyal neighbor who lives next door to the Voss family. Angus frequently refers to her as a stalker due to their brief, annulled marriage twenty years prior. Despite his sarcastic complaints, she remains a steady presence at their neighborhood gatherings and willingly steps in to help the family during crises.

Joseph Voss was Denny's adoptive father and Nana-Jo's late husband. He passed away years earlier in what Denny was told was a tragic hunting accident. During Denny's childhood, Papa-Jo secretly taught him how to shoot for self-protection, leaving behind a collection of rifles that eventually complicate Denny's legal situation.

Toni is the sister of Henry Tesky’s deceased first wife, Irene. She lives in Canada but maintains ties to Woodmont. She harbors intense outrage toward Tesky regarding his treatment of her sister, holding grudges over his infidelities and financial maneuvers.

Irene is Henry Tesky's deceased first wife. A former client and friend of the Voss family, her past actions and belongings, including a hidden handgun and matching knitted scarves, become critical elements in the murder investigation.

Mr. Easterville is the lead prosecutor assigned to Henry Tesky's murder trial. Methodical and relentless, he builds a strong case against Denny by highlighting Denny's DNA on the murder weapon, past altercations with the victim, and perceived opportunity.

Mrs. Timko is a neighbor of the Voss family and the owner of an aggressive, flightless goose named Tom Hanks. Her pet's belligerent behavior prompts Denny to devise a well-intentioned but disastrous kidnapping plot that results in his first arrest.