The Biscuit Eater

Lonnie is a compassionate boy who forms a deep bond with Moreover and dreams of turning him into a prize-winning bird dog. He wrestles with the longing to keep his pet close and the pressure to honor his father's dog-training standards. His willingness to plot with Text reveals a growing willingness to take risks in pursuit of loyalty. The journey teaches him about responsibility, trust, and the consequences of deception.

Text is Lonnie's best friend, a farm kid with street-smart cunning. He is quick-witted and ready to bend rules to help friends, revealing a penchant for mischief. His plan with Lonnie to trade the dog illustrates how loyalty can mask risky improvisation. The partnership pushes both boys toward a crucial test of character.

Willie is a gas station clerk who loves to trade and strike bargains, often walking a fine line between shrewdness and fairness. He is practical and sometimes irritable, especially when he suspects the dog is misbehaving. His decisions about the dog set the stakes for Lonnie and Text's plan and fuel the pursuit of the field trial.

Harve is a skilled dog trainer and Lonnie's father, proud of his kennel's reputation. He views Moreover as a potential risk to his other hunting dogs and initially believes the dog is untrainable. He ultimately gifts Moreover to Willie, sparking conflict with Lonnie and setting up the boys' race to reclaim the dog.