Howard Belsey

Howard Belsey is a white, slender art historian at Wellington College, originally from England. He is known for his enthusiasm and dedication to his field, yet he struggles with focus, particularly regarding his unfinished study on Rembrandt. This lack of focus is compounded by professional jealousy towards his nemesis, Monty Kipps, who has published a successful book on Rembrandt. Howard’s emotional strengths include his dedication to his family, showing love for his wife, Kiki, and attentiveness to their children. However, he is notably weak when it comes to resisting the temptation of other women, leading to an affair with Monty Kipps’ daughter, Victoria. Despite being a devoted husband, Howard’s personal failings are evident in his relationships outside the family. He shares a unique sense of humor with Kiki, which helps bond their marriage.

Kiki Belsey

Kiki Belsey is a black woman with southern roots, a descendant of American slaves. She works as a hospital administrator and is highly regarded in her professional capacity. Married to Howard for thirty years, Kiki has grown conscious of her weight but does not let it overly concern her. She is forgiving and compassionate, showing strength in her ability to understand and accept her husband's weaknesses, although she knows when she has had enough. Kiki often wonders about the paths she might have taken had she not dedicated so much of her life to her family. The shared sense of humor between her and Howard is a foundation of their relationship.

Jerome Belsey

Jerome, the eldest son of Howard and Kiki, is a student at Brown University. He is deeply self-conscious about both himself and his family, often feeling out of place. His stay with the Kipps family offers him a glimpse into a more structured, religious, and conservative lifestyle, which he initially finds appealing. However, his assumptions are later challenged, leading to a deeper understanding of both families. Jerome’s experiences reflect his struggle to find where he fits in both his family and the wider world.

Zora Belsey

Zora, the daughter of Howard and Kiki, is a student at Wellington and intellectually advanced for her age. Despite her maturity and confidence, she harbors insecurities about her weight and social skills, which make her interactions somewhat difficult. Her behavior can be domineering, as seen when she insists on joining a creative writing class without proper qualifications. Zora’s critical view of others contrasts with her personal struggles with self-esteem and social awkwardness.

Levi Belsey

The youngest of the Belsey siblings at fifteen, Levi has lived a sheltered life and is somewhat naïve. However, he possesses a genuine kindness and is the most adept socially among his siblings. Unlike Zora, Levi is driven by empathy and a desire to help others, rather than seeking personal gain. His natural inclination toward social justice reflects his good-hearted nature and potential for growth.

Claudia Simmons

Claudia Simmons is Kiki's mother, who played a significant role in Kiki’s life by leaving her the Wellington home, providing stability and a sense of heritage.

Harold Belsey

Harold is Howard’s father, residing in England, representing Howard’s roots and connection to his homeland.

Montague “Monty” Kipps

Monty Kipps is a black conservative professor and Howard’s professional rival. His success and contrasting political views create tension with Howard.

Carlene Kipps

Carlene is Monty’s wife, part of the family dynamic that attracts and later disillusions Jerome Belsey.

Victoria Kipps

Victoria, the eighteen-year-old daughter of Monty and Carlene, is described as sexually promiscuous and becomes entangled with Howard, adding complexity to the Belsey-Kipps rivalry.

Michael Kipps

Michael is the son of Monty and Carlene, known for...