Sandy Rogers

James "Sandy" Rogers is the main character of Not without Laughter. The book begins with Sandy still a young boy, just starting school. He lives with his mother Annjee and his grandmother Aunt Hager. His father, Jimboy, works jobs on the road far away from home, rarely writes and sees Sandy little. Aunt Hager and Jimboy have an antagonistic relationship. Despite admiring Aunt Hager, Sandy loves it when Jimboy comes home because he plays his guitar and everyone has a good time.

Early on, Sandy shows himself to not only have a good character but to be an excellent student as well. He learns quickly and makes good grades in his courses, allowing him to advance in school. While Annjee is too focused on Jimboy to encourage Sandy's schoolwork, Aunt Hager stands behind him and motivates him to continue his schoolwork, to work part-time jobs and to...