Twelve years old when the story begins, Rob is a boy with a good sense of responsibility. When the story ends, Rob is thirteen and a man, the male head of the household. Rob narrates the story, and in addition to relating his thoughts, he tells of his interactions with several people who influence him.

Members of Rob's family have the most influence on him. Haven Peck, his father, kills pigs for a living. A man of common sense, hard work, and honesty, he cannot read or write but is determined that Rob will be able to do both well. The story focuses on the relationship between father and son. Rob characterizes his mother when he says, "I could smell her goodness." She works hard in the home and in the garden and never says a harsh word about anyone.

Her oldest sister, Aunt Carrie, lives...