Kenny
Kenny, one of the novel's eponymous "five little indians," is the eldest of the five main characters in the novel. He is a resilient and rescourceful young man who plays an important role in the event of the novel. A leader, Kenny navigates life with tremendous strength--even though it isn't loud and bosterious like his colleagues.
Kenny experienced a turbulent and exceptionally difficult childhood in the residential school system, which was created by the government as a way to ostensibly educate and acculturate Native Americans (or "Indians"). Ultimately, because of his difficult experiences, Kenny desires to seek justice and reconciliation for the past ills he experienced as he dealt with the trauma of being forced to live in a residential school. Still, despite it all, he perserveres, speaking to his good character.
Clara
Clara is a fiery and passionate young woman, driven by a deep sense of justice and an interest in doing what is right for the betterment of herself and those around her (particularly her fellow Indians). She becomes involved in activism around her community, advocating for Indigenous rights and justice for residential school survivors, all of whom were forced to get rid of their own culture and acculturate to white people's culture. Through all of her trials and tribulations, Clara showcases how resilient she is. She organizes others to help bring about change to what she sees as the corrupt residential school system. Her story showcases the ongoing struggle many Indigenous people dealt with when fighting for recognition and reparations.
Howie
Howie, another one of the novel's main character and protagonist, is an exceptionally creative and introspective young man. Because of this character trait, he finds solace in the arts (particularly music). Through Howie, author Michelle Good explores how coping with trauma can lead to reclaiming one's identity which has been lost as a result of the residential schools.
Throughout the course of the novel, Howie heals and learns how to be expressive. Likewise, he learns how to reclaim one's identity after having it stolen because of racist institutions.
Maisie
Maisie is a determined, kind, and intelligent young woman who dreams of becoming a nurse. She faces numerous challenges, including racism and sexism, as she pursues her goals of becoming a strong and independent young woman who is able to get ahead in life.
Lucy
Lucy is the fifth of the main characters in the novel. Gentle, nurturing, and motherly, she lives her life with kindness and dignity. Likewise, she quickly forms a bond with the other characters in the novel, many of whom are struggling through life.
