Ishmael Chambers: A war veteran and the editor of the local newspaper. Ishmael struggles with personal trauma, his unrequited love for Hatsue Miyamoto, and the moral dilemma of revealing evidence that could exonerate Kabuo Miyamoto during the murder trial.

Hatsue Miyamoto (née Imada): A Japanese-American woman and Kabuo’s wife. She was Ishmael’s childhood love but ultimately chose to marry Kabuo. Hatsue is torn between her cultural identity and personal desires.

Kabuo Miyamoto: A Japanese-American fisherman accused of murdering Carl Heine Jr. Kabuo is a reserved man dealing with racial prejudice and the burden of his past actions during World War II.

Supporting Characters

Carl Heine Jr.: The murder victim, a fisherman and childhood friend of Kabuo. His death is central to the novel’s plot, which revolves around the trial for his murder.

Etta Heine: Carl’s mother, who harbors racist attitudes toward Japanese-Americans. She sold land that was promised to Kabuo’s family, fueling tensions between the families.

Arthur Chambers: Ishmael’s late father, a principled newspaper editor who opposed racial discrimination.

Helen Chambers: Ishmael’s mother, who encourages him to move past his bitterness and live a fulfilling life.

Other Notable Characters

Art Moran: The local sheriff investigating Carl Heine’s death. His conclusions reflect the racial biases of the time.

Nels Gudmundsson: Kabuo’s elderly defense attorney, who fights against racial prejudice in the courtroom.

Susan Marie Heine: Carl Heine Jr.’s widow, who provides testimony during the trial.

Ole Jurgensen: A farmer who sold land to Carl Heine Jr., which had previously been promised to Kabuo’s family.

Zenhichi Miyamoto: Kabuo’s father, who had made an agreement to purchase land from Carl Heine Sr. before internment disrupted their plans.