Antwone's wife, described as funny, smart, and beautiful. She becomes a significant presence in his life, supporting him as he achieves his dreams.

Antwone's daughter, symbolizing the fulfillment of his dreams for a secure, loving family. She is noted for her intelligence and physical resemblance to her parents.

Antwone's grandfather, a respected community member with Choctaw ancestry. He educates himself in literature and medicine, inspiring perseverance.

Wife to Horace Elkins, known for her strong will and care for children. She deeply mourns the loss of her son Eddie.

The eldest son of Horace and Emma Elkins, known for his activism with the Black Panthers in Cleveland during the Vietnam era.

Antwone's father, a charismatic poet and singer whose mysterious and untimely death influences the family's destiny.

Antwone's uncle, known as "Parkwood Bruno," who helps Antwone reconnect with his family by sharing stories.

One of the youngest sons of Horace and Emma, known for his ambition.

The eldest Elkins daughter, a nurse in Chicago who helps Antwone learn about his father. She showcases intelligence and compassion.

The second eldest Elkins sister, who shares Antwone's sense of humor inherited from his father.

Antwone's uncle who serves in the Korean War, losing touch with his siblings but later reconnecting with family.

Antwone's mother, who is unable to care for him due to her troubled past and time in foster care. She encounters hardships throughout her life.

Antwone's foster father, who, while attempting to care for him, fails to provide genuine warmth and protection.

Antwone's abusive foster mother, who inflicts emotional and physical pain on him and his foster siblings.

The kind-hearted Pickett daughter, who provides Antwone with support and a place to stay during his hardships.

The cruel Pickett sister who mistreats Antwone and shows little concern for his wellbeing.

An inhabitant of the Picketts' home who is kind but fails to protect the foster children. His tragic fate resonates with the family's struggles.

Antwone's foster brother, whose intelligence is overshadowed by a lack of encouragement, leading to a difficult life path.

The youngest foster child, who experiences similar struggles to Antwone but is favored by Mrs. Pickett due to his lighter skin.

Antwone's foster sister, who supports him and lives independently with the kind Mercy Pickett.

A neighbor who babysits Antwone and brings additional trauma to his life.

Antwone's elementary school teacher, who provides him with maternal care and encouragement, significantly impacting his self-esteem and development.

Antwone's childhood crush from his neighborhood, who embodies his dreams of connection and romance.

A fearless and unpredictable friend, whose life is marked by reckless behavior but offers Antwone temporary refuge during his homelessness.