Character+Analyzer

Section 1 pg. 1-58 (Shandell)

Marguerite (Maya) Johnson Marguerite is only three when the novel begins and is being shipped off with her brother to go live with her grandmother in Stamps, Arkansas. Maya is often described by the other characters in the book as being "tender hearted", which means sensitive. The book describes her appearance as being very awkward, and not near as good looking as her brother, nor as coordinated. However, she is very smart. Her brother, Bailey, brings out the adventurous, ornery side of her. She is very respectful of her elders, and thinks of herself as being very clever. In that time, children were to be seen and not heard, and there is a part in the novel where she talks about mastering the art of being able to tune noises in and out whenever she pleased. She also minds her elders very well. Bailey is more of the rebel between the two, but can get away with more than his sister can. Maya has been taught to respect and fear white people, to expect the worst from them. I think she is somewhat curious about the white world, but would just as soon mind her own business, and stay away from white folks. Bailey Johnson Marguerite's older brother. He is only one year older, and is four when the novel begins. Bailey is not only Maya's brother, but also her best friend. They have total trust in each other. Bailey is also very respectful of his elders, for the most part. He does sneaky things behind their backs like stealing pickles from the Store, or listening to their conversations, or mimicking them, but most of it is harmless. Bailey is also the wiser one out of the two. Maybe it's just because he's older, but he seems to be Maya's caretaker. She is always his number one concern. Grandma Henderson "Momma" Grandma Henderson is the children's grandmother who they live with in Stamps. She is very well respected in her community. She is also very independent. She runs her own business, which is called "the Store". It sells food supplies, clothes, and other basic necessities. Grandma Henderson is very loving, strict, and religious. She expects the children to grow up well-educated, with proper manners, proper hygiene habits, and a strong religion. She is the children's caretaker, and provider. Although she is very loving, she is also not afraid of whipping them when she thinks they need it. However, I would not describe her as being mean or cruel. Uncle Willie Grandma Henderson's son. Uncle Willie was crippled, and was ashamed of his lameness. However I also think he was a proud man, at least sometimes, because the book talks about an incident where he didn't want this couple to know he was crippled and sent Maya out to play, to prevent her from telling them he was. Willie is very quiet, and I think he is kind-of pessimistic. However, I think he cares for the two children and about their well being. Reverend Thomas The residing elder in that area of Arkansas that included stamps. He was a very overweight man who the children despised. The book described him as having very rude, greedy habits. But he does seems to care for Mrs. Henderson and the family. However, I don't think he really fits the "preacher" stereotype. He seems too self-centered and obnoxious.

Character Analysis section 2 pages 59-116- Melissa

Big Bailey- Maya and Bailey's real dad. Mr. Freemon- rapist/Mother's boyfriend. Mrs. Flowers- refined lady in their black society.

Section 4 pages 175-232- Melissa

Donleavy- Politican Dr. Lincoln- A dentist who refuses to give African-americans service. Grandmother Baxter- Mother's mom. Or Bailey and Maya's great grandmother.