Rob Garrett - The protagonist, a 16-year-old African American boy who enrolls at the prestigious, all-white Draper boarding school in Connecticut in the late 1950s. He is the first black student at the school and faces challenges navigating the predominantly white environment while grappling with his identity and aspirations.

Vinnie - An Italian-American student from New York who becomes Rob's closest friend at Draper. Vinnie faces discrimination and bullying from the other students due to his ethnicity and acne, ultimately being forced to move out of the dormitory.

Aunt Gwen - Rob's aunt who advises him to "keep to himself" initially at Draper until he understands the dynamics of the school.

Mr. Spencer - The dean of students at Draper who turns a blind eye to the mistreatment of Vinnie by the other students, reflecting the prejudices of the time.

The novel also features Rob's parents, a dentist and schoolteacher, as well as his friends from home who are involved in the Civil Rights movement. Characters like Malcolm X and Joe Louis, the famous boxer whose downfall serves as a cautionary tale for Rob, make appearances as well.

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Racial Discrimination and Segregation
The novel explores the harsh realities of racial discrimination and segregation in America, particularly through the experiences of its protagonist, Rob Garrett, a young African American boy who leaves his segregated school in Virginia to attend an elite boarding school in Connecticut.

Identity and Belonging
Rob’s journey is one of self-discovery as he navigates the challenges of being one of the few black students in a predominantly white institution. The book examines his struggles with identity and the quest for belonging in a society that often marginalizes him.

Civil Rights Movement
The backdrop of the novel includes the growing Civil Rights Movement. Rob’s experiences and the people he meets along the way contribute to his awareness and eventual involvement in the fight for racial equality.

Friendship and Loyalty
The novel highlights the importance of friendship and loyalty as Rob forms new relationships that help him cope with the isolation and prejudice he faces. These relationships are crucial for his emotional growth and understanding of the broader social issues at play.

Courage and Activism
Rob’s story is one of courage as he learns to stand up against injustice. The novel depicts his evolving role from a passive observer to an active participant in the Civil Rights Movement, inspired by the courageous individuals he encounters.

Education and Personal Growth
The setting of an elite boarding school serves as a stage for Rob’s intellectual and personal development. The novel emphasizes the role of education in empowering individuals to challenge societal norms and injustices.

"New Boy" is a gripping narrative that provides insight into the complexities of race relations in mid-20th century America, the personal growth of a young African American boy, and the broader historical context of the Civil Rights Movement.

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The novel is described as a skillfully written and compelling coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of racial segregation and social changes in 1960s America.

Readers found it to be an eye-opening and educational experience, providing insight into the severe discrimination African Americans faced in the South during the late 1950s and beyond.

The novel is praised for its realistic portrayal of racial integration in an all-white school setting, offering an interesting perspective on this historical period.

Critics have noted that the book deals powerfully with segregation, not just in terms of race but also other ethnicities, showcasing how prejudice affected various groups.

"New Boy" is considered by some to be among the classics of literature set in New England prep schools and one of the most finely-crafted books on American racism from a black perspective.

Readers appreciated the author's even-keeled voice in handling sensitive topics, making the story accessible while still conveying unnerving details about America's racist past. The book is recommended for both young and adult readers, suggesting its broad appeal and relevance.

Overall, "New Boy" seems to be well-regarded for its historical accuracy, thoughtful exploration of racial issues, and compelling storytelling. It appears to have resonated with readers as an important work that sheds light on a crucial period in American history through the eyes of its young protagonist.