Frannie (Abigal): The main character and an African American sixth-grade student. She is very protective of her older brother, Sean, who is deaf. She doesn’t go to church on Sunday because she thinks people act fake there, but she believes in God. She struggles with what Jesus Boy means to her and her family.
Jesus Boy: The new white boy to the completely African American sixth grade class. He was adopted by African-American parents, which is why they moved to the other side of the bridge from the“White side.” At first he didn't fit in because of his coloring, but then things changed.
Ms. Johnson: The sixth grade teacher who inspires Frannie to work on her writing. She is supportive and encouraging to the students, and allows the students to be themselves. She is strict but productive.
Sean: Frannie’s older brother who is deaf. He is very smart, good-looking, and athletic. He struggles with the fact that girls like him until they discover he cannot hear. He also wishes to go to the other side of the bridge.
Mama: Frannie and Sean’s mom who has lost many children during childbirth. She becomes pregnant again and is worried about the baby.
Daddy: A truck driver who is gone for long stretches at a time. He is Frannie and Sean’s father, and is always worried about their mother’s health.
Trevor: The bully of the sixth grade. He especially hates Jesus boy because he is the only one lighter skinned than Trevor. Since Jesus boy will not identify with being white, Trevor turns upon him.
Rayray (Raymond Raysen): Trevor’s partner that at first picks on Jesus Boy because he is afraid of Trevor. Later he realizes that he should not be afraid of Trevor and sticks up for Jesus Boy.
Maribel Bagel Tanks: Maribel’s parents own the grocery store in town and charge very high prices. She thinks she is above all the other students because she once went to a private school that is now closed down. Her and Frannie do not get along because Frannie does not allow Maribel to get her way all the time. Maribel especially hates Jesus Boy because he came to her store and paid all in coins.
Samantha: Frannie’s best friend that hopes that Jesus Boy is really Jesus coming back to save them. Her father is the pastor at her church, and later when she realizes Jesus Boy is just a boy she questions herself.
Grandma: Frannie and Sean's grandmother, who is very religious... Even though she would hit you with a bible if you said something she didn't like.
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