The Princes:
* Edward Tudor: The real Prince of Wales, later King Edward VI. He is a kind, gentle, and intelligent boy who yearns for freedom and adventure.
* Tom Canty: A poor boy living in the slums of London. He is a mischievous, spirited, and resourceful boy who longs for a better life.
Supporting Characters:
* Miles Hendon: A kind-hearted and loyal gentleman who befriends Tom Canty and helps him escape from the slums.
* John Canty: Tom's cruel and abusive father.
* Hugh Hendon: Miles's elder brother, who is initially suspicious of Tom's claims to be the prince.
* Lady Jane Grey: A young noblewoman who is betrothed to Edward Tudor. She is intelligent, well-educated, and kind.
* Lord Hertford: A powerful and ambitious nobleman who is vying for power during the King's illness.
* Lord Protector Somerset: The King's uncle, who is appointed Lord Protector after Edward's death.
* Sir John Heron: A loyal and trusted advisor to the King.
* The King's Fool: A jester who provides amusement and entertainment for the royal court.
Other Notable Characters:
* The King's Chamberlain: Responsible for managing the royal household.
* The King's Physician: Attends to the King's health and is a key figure in the story's development.
* The Princess Elizabeth: The King's sister, later Queen Elizabeth I.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list, as the book features a large cast of characters, many of whom appear only briefly.