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Mrs. Bibbs

Like most white characters in the novel, she represents one facet of the oppressive society that makes the assumption that blacks are inherently suited to menial labor.

Mr. Crane

He stands for the liberal whites who are well-meaning, but ultimately too weak to stand up to the prevailing racism of their society.

Ella

A schoolteacher with a "remote and dreamy and silent" manner, Richard is attracted to her mystery, though afraid.

Ella

See Ellen Wilson Wright

Mr. Falk

Richard asks this character if he can use his library card.

Grandpa

See Richard Wilson

Griggs

He is Richard's friend who repeatedly tries to convince Richard to take the "easier" route of conforming to white expectations of black behavior.

Harrison

He is a shop boy who works across the street from Richard.

Mrs. Moss

Richard rents a room from her but finds that she is offering more than...

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