Here Come the Littles (1985) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The Littles reside secretly inside the walls of Henry Bigg's house. They live hidden within the structure, coming out to help Henry and navigate the human world when needed. When Henry is moved to his Uncle Augustus's residence, some Littles also venture into that larger, more threatening home.

• littles
• house walls
• secret home
• bigg house

Grandpa Little is the experienced elder of the Littles who leads their rescue efforts. He is protective of his family, highly knowledgeable about Augustus's schemes, and adapts quickly to dangerous situations to keep the Littles and Henry safe.

• grandpa little
• leader
• little character
• elder

Uncle Augustus is Henry's cruel guardian who seeks to control Henry's life and property. He intends to tear down the Bigg family home to build a shopping center. He forges documents to secure guardianship and underestimates both Henry and the Littles until it's too late.

• uncle augustus
• villain
• guardian
• shopping center

The Littles are tiny elf-like beings who live hidden inside the walls of human homes. They are a secretive community who help protect the human inhabitants and work behind the scenes to counter threats to their home.

• littles
• elf-like beings
• small creatures
• house walls

The core setting is Henry Bigg's house, where the Littles secretly dwell inside the walls. The primary conflict centers on Uncle Augustus's larger, more menacing residence, where Henry is forced to live after his parents vanish. The story also spans the Bigg property and concludes near the airport.

• augustus residence
• house
• bigg property
• setting

The Littles risk capture and danger to protect Henry, proving that size does not determine bravery. Henry himself shows resilience by seeking help and standing up to his guardian. Together, they execute daring escapes and clever plans to outsmart Augustus.

• courage
• bravery
• resilience
• theme

Augustus seeks to control Henry's life and property, representing greed and power. The Littles fight for Henry's autonomy and their home, working behind the scenes to counter the threat. The resolution restores agency to the vulnerable and exposes fraud.

• freedom
• control
• greed
• power
• theme

Henry trusts the Littles with his secret world, forming a bond that transcends their size difference. The Littles help Henry reclaim his guardianship and stand against Augustus's schemes. Cooperation and trust drive their plan to protect their shared future.

• friendship
• loyalty
• cooperation
• trust
• theme

Henry Bigg is the young protagonist who loses and then regains guardianship over his home. He shows resilience, resourcefulness, and trust in the Littles when danger arises from his uncle's schemes.

• henry bigg
• protagonist
• boy
• hero

Mrs. Evans is Henry's housekeeper who acts as an ally and guardian figure in the tale. She supports Henry and the Littles when possible, serving as a helpful human character in their efforts against Augustus.

• mrs evans
• housekeeper
• ally
• supporter

The key Littles include Grandpa Little (the wise leader), William Little (curious and brave), Lucy Little (bold and supportive), Tom Little (quick-thinking), Dinky Little (resourceful), and Helen Little (caring and vigilant). Each plays a vital role in uncovering Augustus's plan and protecting Henry.

• little characters
• william little
• lucy little
• tom little
• dinky little