Sara Crewe. Possesses a vivid imagination. Raised in India due to her father's business, she came to London, England to enroll in school. She lives her days like a princess. She lost her mother. While she has a childlike side, she is also quite mature.

Sara's father. An Englishman living in India for business. He loves Sara dearly and always sends her letters.

A girl working in the kitchen. She admires Sara and Guest for treating her, a mere scullery maid, with kindness.

The oldest student. Being wealthy and beautiful, she received the most attention before Sara and Guest arrived.

The youngest student at Miss Minchin's school. Having no mother, she follows Sara and Guest around, viewing them as mother figures.

The headmistress. Her attitude changes depending on whether someone is wealthy or not. She treats the poor harshly. Her personality is... questionable.

A classmate and best friend to Sara and Guest. She is timid and struggles with her studies, so Sara and Guest help her out.

Miss Minchin's younger sister. She is kind but timid, tending to follow her sister's orders in silence.

Sara's doll. She does not speak. Occasionally provides narration only. When other characters address her, she is described as being in a certain place or holding a certain pose.