* R. Eric Thomas: The author himself, who serves as the narrator and protagonist of the story.
* His Parents: They play a significant role in shaping his love for words and his journey as a "Word Nerd". They encourage his passion and are supportive of his unconventional path.
* His Teachers: From elementary school to college, various teachers leave a lasting impact on him, fostering his linguistic abilities and providing him with valuable lessons.
* His Friends: He has close friends who share his love of language and support him throughout his life.
The book doesn't focus on a single, overarching plot with a cast of distinct characters like a novel would. It's more of a collection of essays and anecdotes about Thomas's life and experiences as a "Word Nerd." While there are many individuals he interacts with, they primarily serve as catalysts for his reflections on language, identity, and society.