On the Devil's Court

The main character and narrator of On the Devil’s Court, Joe takes his time identifying himself and describing himself. Over the course of several chapters, he reveals that he is Joseph Faust Jr., a 17-year-old, red-headed, pimply boy who is 6’2”. He portrays himself as being not overly bright, at least not on par with his father, a brilliant scientist. The main thing Joe wants readers to know about him is that he loves basketball and is pretty good at it. At his old private school in Boston, he was the top player. Now that his family has moved to Seattle, however, he would really like to attend public school, largely because he thinks the caliber of basketball players is much better than in private schools.

Joe acknowledges that he has led a sheltered life, something that frustrates him immensely. His parents have tried to pick his friends and make his decisions, especially concerning what school he will attend. Though he respects his father, he is also jealous and resentful of him to the point that it is difficult for Joe to appreciate the great scientific advances his dad has made.

At a point in his life when Joe feels everything is working against him and he cannot get a break, he impetuously offers his soul to the devil in return for a great basketball season.