* Omri: The protagonist, a young boy fascinated by toys and history. He's curious and impulsive, often acting before thinking through the implications of his actions. He matures throughout the story, learning to take responsibility for his actions and the well-being of Little Bear.
* Little Bear (Little Chief): A tiny, meticulously crafted plastic Indian figure who comes to life. He's initially portrayed as a stereotypical Native American, but his personality develops, showcasing bravery, vulnerability, and a deep longing for his home. He's ultimately a complex character whose experiences highlight the dangers of stereotyping and the importance of understanding different cultures.
* Patrick: Omri's older brother, initially skeptical and sometimes mean-spirited. He represents a contrasting approach to imagination and responsibility – he's less interested in the magic and more focused on practicalities, even if that means being less empathetic. He gradually comes around to appreciating the situation, although he's still secondary to Omri's experiences.
* Grandma: Omri's grandmother, who plays a supportive role, offering Omri practical help and emotional comfort. She's mostly a supporting character who helps ground the fantastical elements of the story.
* Other Characters (The cowboys, etc.): These are less developed figures who are mostly used to create conflict and showcase Little Bear's environment and adventures within the cupboard world. They generally represent archetypes rather than fully fleshed-out characters.
The key thing to note is the contrast between the initially simplistic portrayal of Little Bear as a "toy" and his subsequent development into a complex character with his own feelings, needs, and agency. This character development drives the story's moral message.