Amari
Amari is the main character in the novel. When her village is invaded, she is captured and taken to America as a slave. Amari’s slave master is called Mr. Derby. Mr. Derby is controversial and he buys Amari for his son, Clay. Mr. Derby purchases Amari as a birthday present for Clay. In Mr. Derby’s home, Amari befriends Polly. The two girls escape together and go to Fort Mose to seek peace.
Mr. Derby
Mr. Derby is a slaveholder and also a tycoon. He purchases Amari as a birthday present for his son, Clay. As well, he has other slaves serving him. When his wife delivers a black child, he kills both the child and one of his butlers, Noah. Noah had impregnated Mrs. Derby and Mr. Derby was not amused.
Polly
Polly is a white girl but working for Mr. Derby as a slave. However, unlike black slaves, Polly has signed a contract with Mr. Derby on how long she will serve him. Polly’s parents used to work for Mr. Derby. However, they died before completing their contract. Therefore, Mr. Derby decided to take Polly to complete her parents’ contract and sign another contract afresh. Polly escapes along with Amari to Fort Mose.
Teenie
Teenie is a slave cook working for Mr. Derby. She has a son called Tidbit. Teenie loves both Amari and Polly. At some point, she organizes for Amari to stop working in the fields. Besides, when Mr. Derby beats Amari, Teenie takes the responsibility of nursing her.
