If the Barclays are a good example of an upstanding Odyssey family, the Rathbones are the complete opposite. Father Bart Rathbone wouldn’t stand up to moral scrutiny. There are few ethical scruples that he’s inclined to follow. From unscrupulously coaching a softball team to using shady methods to run his electronics shop, The Electric Palace, to coming up with all manner of get-rich-quick schemes, Bart affably stands for everything Whit – and the world of Odyssey – is against.
Tamika Washington
Tamika is the opposite of her brother Marvin in pretty much every way imaginable. She is talkative, funny, outgoing, playful, and a tomboy. She can beat Marvin in every sport. She has lots of friends and is always the one who decides what they are going to do. Tamika loves to try new things, and is always up for any challenge. Of course, this oftentimes gets her into trouble, as she has a tendency to try something new and not consider the consequences.
Wooton Bassett
There’s no one quite like Wooton. When he’s not delivering mail, creating new comic-book characters, or looking for new ice-cream flavors, Wooton is helping the kids in some very unique ways.
Connie Kendall
Connie has worked at Whit’s End since she moved to Odyssey. She is spontaneous and never inclined to hold back what she’s thinking, but she has a strong heart for discipleship—especially toward the kids at Whit’s End.
John Avery Whittaker
“Whit” is an inventor, author, entrepreneur and owner of Whit’s End—an ice cream shop and “discovery emporium” where kids can be kids. His wise counsel, inventiveness and insight have made him a trusted friend and confidant to everyone in Odyssey.
Tom Riley
Tom is an old friend of Whit (he calls him “John Avery”) and owns an apple farm outside of town. He coached many of Odyssey’s sports teams, and ably served as Odyssey’s mayor through its most difficult times. Tom is known for his wisdom and “country sense.”