Mariesis is Abraham's wife and a strong, resilient quilt-maker. She is the mother of seven surviving children, including Jeremiah and Gabriel, and has lost five others in infancy. Her experiences have made her fiercely protective. She questions Abraham's decisions and embodies the strength of Indigenous women. Mariesis maintains a connection to Catholicism but adapts to new ways after Abraham's death.

Jeremiah, originally named Champion, is one of the novel’s protagonists. He is a concert pianist, composer, playwright, social worker, and Cree-language teacher. His childhood experiences at Birch Lake Indian Residential School lead him to initially reject his Cree heritage. Throughout the novel, Jeremiah faces spiritual crises and eventually reclaims his cultural identity, blending his musical talents with his heritage.

Gabriel, originally named Ooneemeetoo, is the younger brother of Jeremiah and shares a close bond with him. Known for his beauty and rebellious spirit, Gabriel is named "dancer" at birth. His experiences at Birch Lake Residential School deeply affect him. Despite early challenges, Gabriel stands firm in his identity, openly embracing his sexuality and cultural beliefs. He plays a crucial role in encouraging Jeremiah to rediscover his Cree heritage.

Father Lafleur is the principal of Birch Lake Residential Indian School and serves as the primary antagonist. He represents the oppressive force of Christian colonization and abuses his position of power to harm Indigenous children at the school. His actions are hypocritical and destructive, and he seeks to undermine and devalue the children's Indigenous cultures.

Amanda Clear Sky is a proud Ojibway actress who meets Jeremiah and Gabriel in high school. Influenced by her grandmother Anne-Adele Ghostrider, Amanda asserts her Indigenous heritage and forms a relationship with Jeremiah. She plays an important role in helping Jeremiah re-embrace his cultural identity, serving as a catalyst for his personal growth.