David Strorm - The protagonist and narrator, a young boy with telepathic abilities. He struggles to hide his "deviation" in a society that fears and destroys anything different.

Joseph Strorm - David's strict and fanatically religious father, a leader in their community of Waknuk. He enforces the harsh laws against mutants and deviations.

Emily Strorm - David's mother, who supports her husband’s beliefs but shows occasional glimpses of compassion.

Petra Strorm - David's younger sister, who also possesses telepathic powers, though hers are exceptionally strong and uncontrolled at first.

Uncle Axel - A former sailor and David’s uncle, a more open-minded figure who becomes David’s confidant and mentor, helping him understand his abilities.

Sophie Wender - A childhood friend of David’s who has six toes, a physical deviation. Her fate highlights the cruelty of Waknuk’s society.

John Wender - Sophie’s father, who tries to protect his daughter from the community’s persecution.

Mary Wender - Sophie’s mother, who shares her husband’s protective instincts.

Rosalind Morton - David’s cousin and love interest, another telepath. She is resourceful and strong-willed, playing a key role in their group’s survival.

Michael - A member of the telepathic group, practical and analytical, often acting as a voice of reason.

The Sealand Woman - A telepathic representative from a distant, advanced society (Sealand), who offers hope and rescue to David and his group.

Angus Morton - Rosalind’s father and a neighbor of the Strorms, who has a more pragmatic approach but still adheres to societal norms.

The Inspector - A local authority figure responsible for enforcing the rules against deviations, representing the oppressive system.

The Old Man (Jacob) - An elderly character who reflects the rigid traditions and fears of the past.