Trading Mom

A divorced, workaholic mother who is seen by her children as nagging and distant. She is strict and focused on responsibility, but the story reveals her capacity for warmth when the family reconnects. Her absence drives the plot, and her presence ultimately anchors the kids' sense of home.

One of the Martin siblings, who tends to lead through action and defends his brothers and sister. He participates in the plan to change their mother but also learns the value of love and family through shared memories. His perspective helps move the plot toward reconciliation.

The eldest Martin child, often observant and outspoken. She plays a cautious, curious role in how the family navigates each day and bonds with her mother. Her memory anchors the return of Mrs. Martin.

The middle child who often passes for doing nothing wrong but is still deeply attached to his mother. His actions and reactions reflect the family’s struggles with acceptance and the impact of neglect and attention. His memories help trigger the spell’s undoing.

An elderly gardener who befriends the Martin children. She knows about an ancient spell that could make their mother disappear and introduces them to the Mommy Market. Her calm, enigmatic demeanor masks a deeper charm and manipulation.

The strict, suspicious principal who becomes a pivotal obstacle as he suspects the mother’s disappearance and tries to involve social services. He represents authority and the consequences of the kids’ actions.

A figure in the Mommy Market who oversees the selection of the replacement mothers. He becomes a bystander to the children's desperate attempt to fix their family, highlighting the market’s commodified view of motherhood.

A Russian circus performer who becomes one of the potential mothers at the Mommy Market. His powerful, exotic presence contrasts with the other unsuitable options the children consider.

One of the three temporary mothers offered by the market. She represents an aloof, affluent option the kids try in search of care, illustrating the marketplace's emptiness when it comes to real mothering.

Another market option: a woman who prides herself on independence and physical prowess. She shows how motherhood is perceived as achievement rather than love in the market’s eyes.