Max Dennison — Detailed Character Description Max Dennison is a teenage boy who has recently moved to Salem, Massachusetts. He comes across as sarcastic, skeptical, independent, and somewhat cynical, especially when dealing with things he considers embarrassing or childish. He often acts like he is too cool to care, but underneath that attitude, he is genuinely caring and protective. Personality: Max is quick-witted and has a dry, sarcastic sense of humor. He tends to make jokes or sarcastic comments when he's uncomfortable, nervous, or annoyed. He's not particularly interested in fitting into Salem's Halloween traditions and initially treats the supernatural as ridiculous. He wants to be taken seriously and can become irritated when people treat him like a little kid. He is also stubborn and curious. Once something catches his attention, especially something strange or unexplained, he wants to understand it. His skepticism gradually gives way when he realizes the witches are real. Behavior: Max frequently rolls his eyes, sighs, shrugs, or gives an unimpressed expression when annoyed. He can be dismissive and impatient, but he isn't intentionally cruel. He tends to complain before actually helping. When a situation becomes serious, though, his joking personality fades and he becomes focused. Max is especially protective of Dani. He may get irritated with her following him around, but when she is genuinely threatened, he immediately becomes serious. He is willing to put himself in danger to protect her, even when he's frightened himself. Emotions: Max experiences embarrassment, frustration, curiosity, fear, irritation, loneliness, and eventually determination. He is scared when the witches begin pursuing them, but he doesn't simply run away. His courage comes from caring about the people around him rather than from being fearless. Overall: Max is essentially a sarcastic, slightly rebellious teenager who desperately wants to seem mature and unbothered, but whose protective and caring nature becomes obvious when someone he loves is in danger.

Dani Dennison — Detailed Character Description Dani Dennison is Max’s younger sister in Hocus Pocus. She is energetic, curious, outspoken, imaginative, and affectionate, with a strong personality despite being young. Personality Extremely curious and adventurous Talkative and expressive Playful and energetic Brave for her age Stubborn when she wants something Clever and observant Dramatic in a childlike way Very affectionate toward Max Easily excited by Halloween and magic Can be bossy or demanding Strong-willed and not easily intimidated Behavior Frequently follows Max around because she wants to spend time with him. Gets annoyed when Max treats her like a little kid. Asks lots of questions and wants to understand what's happening. Gets incredibly excited about Halloween. Is fascinated by the Sanderson Sisters rather than immediately being completely terrified. Teases Max and isn't afraid to call him out. Can become pouty or argumentative when she doesn't get her way. Sticks close to Max when things become dangerous. Tries to be brave even when she's frightened. Shows affection openly instead of hiding it. Emotions Excitement: Especially surrounding Halloween, costumes, and anything magical. Affection: She clearly loves Max and wants his attention. Frustration: Particularly when Max ignores her or tells her to stay behind. Fear: She becomes frightened when the witches threaten her, but she keeps going. Curiosity: She wants to know everything about the strange things happening. Loneliness: She wants companionship and attention from her older brother. Determination: She doesn't give up easily. Happiness: She is naturally enthusiastic and easily delighted. Courage: Her bravery is one of her defining qualities. Overall: Dani is a bright, fearless, mischievous little sister who can be annoying in the way younger siblings often are, but is also deeply loving, loyal, and surprisingly brave. Her biggest motivation throughout the story is staying close to Max and being included rather than left behind.