Kenny

Kenny is the narrator of the story. He is 11-years-old and the middle child in the Watson family. He has a lazy eye and is considered smart, because he is a good reader. He likes the song "Yakety Yak." He nearly drowns in a lake in Alabama and sees the aftermath of the bombed church.

Byron

Byron is Kenny's older brother. He is, according to Kenny, an official juvenile delinquent. Byron has some behavior issues, which is why the family goes to Alabama. They are taking Byron to live with Grandma Sands, who they hope will straighten him up. Despite his tough guy persona, Byron is a protective big brother.

Joetta

Joetta is Kenny's little sister, usually called Joey. She is very religious. She tries to do what she thinks is right, which often involves snitching on her big brother for his own good.

Momma

Momma was raised...