Because They’re Young

A novice history teacher who strives to connect with his students while carrying the weight of a personal tragedy. He is idealistic, empathetic, and willing to bend rules to guide youths toward better choices. His commitment to Eric and to his students drives him to intervene in dangerous situations, even at personal cost.

A girl whose past sexual misstep has damaged her social standing and scholarship prospects. She faces harsh judgment from peers and teachers while forming a tentative bond with Neil. Her situation reveals the pressures on young women to uphold propriety in a conservative social climate.

A student aiming for an athletic scholarship whose family struggles with money. He idolizes his mother and is unsettled by perceived promiscuity, which destabilizes him. He forms a meaningful connection with Neil that helps steer him away from crime and toward responsibility.

A bold, impulsive student who is drawn into delinquency and crime. His tough exterior masks deeper vulnerabilities and a craving for respect. The story suggests potential for rehabilitation when guided by a principled mentor and honest community support.

A student who loves Jim and must navigate the moral warnings of her parents. She demonstrates resilience and practicality, seeking honest communication rather than judgment. She serves as a grounded perspective amid the teens' struggles.

The school principal who upholds rules and order, often clashing with reform-minded approaches. His decisions push Neil toward balancing empathy with accountability. He embodies the institutional authority that governs student life.

A butcher turned accomplice who coordinates with Patcher for a planned robbery. His opportunistic nature pulls others into crime, driving the crisis toward its climax. He represents the lure of easy money and its consequences.

The leader of the Conway toughs, eager to crash the dance and take part in the robbery. His reckless bravado pushes events toward danger and legal trouble. His actions trigger the police response that alters the story's direction.

Griff's father, a stern presence who warns of legal repercussions and pushes his son to make better choices. He embodies parental authority and the expectation of respectable conduct. His dialogue underscores the stakes of honor and consequences.

A friend who invites Griff and Buddy to a weekend at the family lakehouse, illustrating camaraderie while becoming entangled in the broader criminal plot. His actions reveal how peer dynamics can pull youths into risky situations. He acts as a catalyst for several key events.