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Brother (the narrator)

The unnamed narrator and protagonist of the story, and Doodle’s older brother. Doodle is the only character to refer to the narrator and calls him “Brother.” He possesses a prideful nature, in which his love for Doodle easily turns to cruelty when the younger boy fails to meet his expectations. In want of a little brother who can run and play, he is driven to push Doodle into uncomfortable and dangerous situations.

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Doodle

A boy born with extreme physical disabilities. Doodle is a good-natured boy who shows inner strength in learning to walk, but has physical limitations that he cannot overcome. He is innocent and fragile and loves the beauty of nature.

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Daddy

The boys’ father and a farmer. An unemotional man for the most part, the father only shows real emotion when Doodle walks and when the family’s crops are ruined by drought and hurricane.

Mama

The boys’ mother. A caring and anxious woman who does not believe Doodle will live past infancy. The mother also believes in signs given by the natural world.

Aunt Nicey

The boys’ aunt, who lives with the family. A superstitious woman, Aunt Nicey believes in signs and omens.

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