Zinkoff- Zinkoff is the main character in the book. The whole book centers around him. He always looks on the bright
side of life and is constantly trying his best. He was born with an upside-down valve in his stomach which causes him to frequently
to throw up, and he loves to write his name, even though it looks atrocious.
Zinkoff's Dad- Zinkoff's dad is a mailman and a hero to his son. He carries around a leather mail
bag and often changes cars(which he names Clunker 1,2,3...) because they break down. At one point during the story, he takes
Zinkoff to work with him on Sunday, at which they make a mock delivery. Zinkoff delivers simple letters that he wrote himself.
Zinkoff's Mom- Zinkoff's mom is a very nice person. When she is troubled or upset, she always says
"Heaven help me!" When Zinkoff was a little boy, she gave him silver star stickers when he did something good or accomplished
something.
Andrew Orwell- Andrew is Zinkoff's new neighbor in the summer between 1st and 2nd grade. He was very
shy and upset with his parents when they moved, so he hid. To make Andrew come out, Zinkoff bakes Andrew a giant snickerdoodle
the size of the oven.
Claudia- Claudia is a little girl that Zinkoff met in 1st grade on the 900 Block of Willow when he
was delivering mail. Her mom keeps her on a leash, and Claudia was the one who gave Zinkoff his lucky bubblegum stone, which
he always keeps with him.
Hector Binns- In 5th grade, Zinkoff decides that a best-friendless kid, Hector Binns, should become
his best friend. When approaching Hector one day, Zinkoff notices he is picking at his ear with a paperclip to collect ear
wax.
Miss Meeks- Miss Meeks is Zinkoff's kindergarten teacher. One thing that she did which Zinkoff will
always remember is multiplying 12X180 to show them how many school days there are together from every grade.
Old Lady- The old lady lives on the 900 Block of Willow. Ever since Zinkoff's mock delivery, she
is always ready to yell "Oh, Mailman!" whenever he passes by. Zinkoff stays at her house one day when he skips school, and
they have a discussion comparing jelly and jam.
