Here is a list of key characters in Barrio Boy and their roles:

Ernesto Galarza is the book's protagonist, an intelligent, resilient, hard-working young man uprooted from a small village in Mexico by the Revolution. His family moves among various locations in search of a better life before ending up in Sacramento. Ernesto has a strong work ethic, demonstrated through multiple menial jobs worked throughout childhood, and has a strong sense of justice, demonstrated through the complaint he files regarding substandard labor conditions.

Doña Henriqueta is Ernesto's mother, a seamstress who tutors Ernesto at home in reading and writing, and who instills him with her own strong sense of responsibility in caring for others. She dies of Spanish influenza after settling down with a new husband in California.

José Galarza is Ernesto's uncle and Henriqueta's brother, a hard worker with an irreverent sense of humor who is loyal to family and cares for Ernesto after Henriqueta's death.

Gustavo Galarza is Ernesto's uncle and Henriqueta's brother, a hard worker who is supportive of family and ultimately dies of Spanish influenza in California like his sister.

The plot revolves around the main character, Ernesto Galarza, who is raised by his mother, Dona Henriqueta. Dona was divorced by Ernesto's father when Ernesto was just an infant. This is a story of struggle and coming to grips with harsh reality.

Follow the enotes link for all major characters!