Mr. Freebody is Garnet’s family friend who lives in her neighborhood, and he is older than her father. His character first appears during the “kiln night” in the woods. The text suggests that he is an experienced farmer and a partner with Garnet’s father in the fields, emphasizing his strong connection to the Linden family. Mr. Freebody takes up the role of the uncle or grandfather for Garnet. He is described as a “small” and “quiet” man with a “fierce mustache” (38), and he has a dog named Major as a constant companion.

Mr. Freebody is an important adult figure in Garnet’s life because he constantly protects her and offers advice. Mr. Freebody often drives Garnet and Citronella to town in his truck, and he always comes to Garnet’s rescue following her mischievous adventures. Understanding her parents’ struggles, he demonstrates a communal mindset and stands by their side to shield her. Although he encourages Garnet’s exploratory and curious “spirit,” he also cautions her about being reckless with her choices. While scolding her about her risky journey alone in New Conniston, he confesses that he has always cared for her since she was a baby, protecting her from danger. This depicts him as a caring guardian who is key to Garnet’s well-being.

Mr. Freebody continues to support her, driving her to the New Conniston fair, teaching her how to train her pig, and making sure to be present in the animal contest after Garnet gets stuck on the Ferris wheel. Garnet realizes that Mr. Freebody’s positive role in her life is key to her development, as he always saves her when she makes mistakes. In this way, the old man makes her understand The Importance of Community in Personal Growth.

Eric is a crucial character in the story, as he illuminates the harsh reality of the Great Depression years, particularly from a child’s perspective. Initially characterized as “the stranger,” Eric becomes a member of Garnet’s family. The 13-year-old boy is of Swedish ancestry and comes from a farming family from Minnesota. Unlike Garnet, who grows up in a loving and protective family, Eric is left without any safety net. He lost his mother at an early age and later moved to New York with his father, who later died following an illness. Eric found himself alone, navigating a world troubled by socio-economic crisis.

Forced to mature early, Eric paints a dark reality of childhood in 1930s America, shedding light on historical facts like child labor. After losing his family, Eric was sheltered by a boarding house owner but soon sought distant relatives. With his quest being fruitless, Eric was forced to hitchhike across the country, sleep wherever he could, and work various jobs, including farming, to survive. When he appears in the woods, Eric is malnourished and exhausted. Although the boy emphasizes his independence and self-reliance, stating that he is fine “by [himself],” he is thrilled to enter Garnet’s family after her father hires him. 

Listening to Eric, Garnet imagines her life without a family, realizing how protected and loved she is. Her parents welcome and treat Eric as their own son. Eric works hard on the Linden farm and quickly forms a brotherly bond with Jay. While initially feeling excluded from their company, Garnet considers Eric her own brother. Eric possesses a maturity that Jay and Garnet lack. He criticizes Jay for constantly calling farming a “trouble,” explaining to them from his perspective that life is much harder than they know. In this way, Eric conveys to Garnet and Jay the importance of appreciating small things, as well as their family and home. In the end, Eric decides to become a farmer, dreaming of saving money and buying a farm in Esau Valley close to the Linden home. He becomes a true member of Garnet’s family, and the text implies he will always remain with them.

Citronella is Garnet’s best friend. She is frequently described as a chubby girl with “red cheeks” and “thick yellow bangs” (4). Citronella’s parents are also farmers and the largest family in the community. The girl frequently helps her mother with domestic tasks such as ironing. Citronella is more attached to her home and contrasts with Garnet’s curious personality. For instance, while Garnet yearns for stories about faraway places and wild animals, Citronella enjoys love stories. 

However, the two girls share a special bond and often engage in activities together. Citronella also finds excitement and thrill in being locked up in the library at night or wandering around the fair and riding the Ferris wheel. She is a supportive friend to Garnet and is willing to accompany her in her ventures, despite their differences. Like Garnet, Citronella feels excited about the big town of New Conniston and the fair and enjoys exploring and having fun with her friend.