Joey Bergman – The main character of the story who, after immersing himself into learning Tae Kwon Do, transforms from a shy, introverted twelve year old into a confident, scholastic teenage athlete in high school.

Kathy Bergman – Joey’s mom and the one who first looked into self defense classes for her son and eventually found Master Carter’s Tae Kwon Do Academy. All she, along with her husband, Richard, wanted was a better life for their son and to see him grow up to be a well adjusted young man.

Richard Bergman – Joey’s dad and, like his mother, a staunch supporter of his son who also wanted to help Joey grow out of his bashfulness and begin to interact more with other kids.

Alex Robinson – Joey’s long time best friend who was the principal reason for Joey agreeing to take self defense classes.

Master Ron Carter (aka “Tae Kwon Do Man”) – The Tae Kwon Do instructor who profoundly changes Joey’s life by counseling him and through teaching him self defense.

Shela Benson – The girl of Joey’s dreams who becomes one of his biggest supporters.