Alfred- Alfred is the protagonist character also he is a dynamic character. He is just an typical kid from New York, who want to fit in with the rest. But with that being said he is aspired to become "somebody", he is a high-school drop out. It seems like he has all odds against him. He is an orphan who lives with his aunt and cousins. Alfred isn't perfect but he is very strong. With nothing seeming to go his way he turns to boxing where it feel like an escape from the outside world. Throughout the story Alfred is confused on whether he wants to be a boxer or fit in with his "cool" friends. But ultimately he finds himself contempt with the person he his. He kept moving forward depict all of the step-backs.
Donatelli- Donatelli kind of plays the role of a mentor. His role is very important because he plays somewhat of an father figure to Alfred and he tries to keep Alfred from off the street. He help Alfred become an boxer and encouraged him to go back to school. Other than Alfred he had the most important role in the book. Throughout the book Donatelli and Alfred had an connection. Since the beginning Donatelli saw something special and Alfred that is why he invest so much time in him. He just ultimately wants to help Alfred achieve his dream.
James- In the book James kind of was Alfred drive and really the cause of everything. If you think about it James was Alfred drive. James change dramatically in the book at first he was a kid who tried to accomplish goals but then he turned into someone who has nothing to live for, no values. James first is a nice kid but after the bank robbery he was caught and turn into a product of his environment. When he got out of jail he changed into a whole new person. On James return from jail he just want to do drugs but Alfred doesn't want him to do it because he see the old James. Alfred always wanted to help James return to the old James but he wouldn't allow him to until the end of the book and he motivated James to go back to his old ways
Mr Epstein- Didn't have a major role like the others. He owned the store that major and the others robbed. Through out the story mr. Epstein it seems like he lose trust in Alfred after the others robbed the store. Because he knew James was his best best-friend who was the only one caught in the robbery. He also see potential in Alfred. So Epstein is an mentor kinda because he takes Alfred under his wing and allow him to work there. Also in the book him and Alfred get to know each other on a personal level.