Flipped characters

Also known as Juli

Appears from the start

An energetic girl who decides in second grade that new neighbor Bryce Loski is remarkable. Certain they share a special connection, she pursues his friendship with a confidence and persistence that often overwhelm him.

Appears from the start

Juli's new neighbor and classmate, who is alarmed by her immediate affection. Shy about direct conflict and deeply concerned with what other children think, he begins looking for indirect ways to avoid her attention.

First appears in chapter 2

Juli's father, a house painter and serious amateur artist. Affectionate and thoughtful, he encourages Juli to look beyond isolated details and consider the larger character of a person or place.

First appears in chapter 2

Juli's warm, practical mother, who manages a lively household on limited means and supports her daughter's independent spirit.

First appears in chapter 2

Juli's older brothers, who share an intense interest in music and hope to build a future with their band. Their ambitions are a point of tension between the Baker and Loski families.

Appears from the start

Bryce's father, who places great weight on conventional success and a respectable appearance. His dismissive view of the Bakers shapes Bryce's early assumptions about the family next door.

Appears from the start

Bryce's friendly mother, who is more open and neighborly toward the Baker family than her husband is.

First appears in chapter 5

Bryce's maternal grandfather, who comes to live with the Loskis after his wife's death. Quiet and observant, he does not automatically share the family's assumptions about their neighbors.

First appears in chapter 3

Bryce's closest school friend and an important influence on how Bryce navigates classmates, popularity, and Juli's attention.

First appears in chapter 3

A popular classmate whom Bryce briefly uses as a shield against Juli's attention. Her interest in Bryce makes Juli jealous and complicates the children's early misunderstandings.

First appears in chapter 10

Juli's uncle, who has an intellectual disability and lives in a residential care facility. Meeting him helps Juli understand both her parents' financial strain and her father's quiet loyalty to his brother.

First appears in chapter 3

Bryce's older sister, whose teasing and observations frequently puncture his self-image.