The narrator
The unnamed narrator is the novel's protagonist. The narrator is an indignant member of his school's Quiz Bowl team. The narrator is sharp, intelligent, determined and naughty. The narrator has a crush on his fellow schoolmate, Damien Bloom. However, the narrator keeps his relationship with Damien a secret because he does not want to spoil his reputation.
Like his fellow competitor, Sung, the narrator is determined to win a varsity jacket. To achieve his dreams, the narrator must practice the questions on the less explored fields such as literature. Most of the narrator's teammates are conversant with physics questions. Therefore, the narrator must participate in all games because the Quiz Bowl team relies on his expertise in answering a wide range of questions, thus increasing the chances of winning.
Sung Kim
Sung Kim is an experienced and talented Quiz Bowl player in his school. Sung is the first student to have ever won a varsity Jacket, a symbol of excellence. Sung rivals the narrator in answering many questions during Quiz Bowl games. During practice, Sung throws the most difficult questions to the narrator to intimidate him. However, the narrator loves the game because he gives comic answers to delight other teammates.
Mr. Philips (The physics teacher)
Mr. Philips is the school's physics teacher, and he works very hard to prepare the Quiz Bowl team before major competitions. The author describes Mr. Philip as a strict, result-oriented and optimistic person. When the school team prepares to participate in the Quiz Bowl in Indianapolis, Mr. Philip accompanies the team and coaches it to ensure it is well prepared.
Damien Bloom
Damien is a well-known track team member in school. Damien loves hanging out with the cross-country throng. Damien is a handsome boy with a well-built body. In addition, Damien is hard-working and has managed to be among the few players to have a varsity jacket. The narrator has a crush on Damien. However, Damien does not come out openly to declare his love for the narrator, but they secretly romance each other.
Frances
Frances is a Quiz Bowl team member in college and a close friend of the narrator, Wes and Gordon. Unlike other teammates, Frances is not interested in owning a varsity jacket; instead, he wants to save enough money to ensure he enjoys his trip to Indianapolis to the maximum.
