On this page, you can get to know the characters in “First Thing’s First.” You can read about them below, but you can also chat with the different characters using an AI chatbot! Click the button below to get started.

Disclaimer: The chatbots are based on the text from my book. You will get different results. This website does not bear any responsibility for the content generated by a third-party chatbot.

Review

“The story of an 18-year-old senior in high school trying to show his dad that he was ready for part of his inheritance to help pay for school and the start out in life. I loved seeing him learn, grow, and also try to navigate everything from friendship to family to romance. There are plenty of ups and downs to keep it both realistic and engaging. It’s definitely geared to the Latter-Day Saint reader, while not overly preachy the beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints do have a large role in the story.”

-Amazon Reviewer

Character Bios

Andy

Andy is a young man on the cusp of adulthood, facing the challenges of proving his maturity and responsibility. His father, Mr. Simon T. Burke, is a successful businessman who has high expectations for Andy. Despite his father’s strictness, Andy is a creative and resourceful individual. His past includes mischievous acts like the great Monopoly Money heist of ’09, showcasing his ingenuity. Andy is about to turn 18 and is looking forward to his future, which includes the possibility of claiming his inheritance. However, his father has set a challenge for him to prove his worthiness by participating in a small business competition at school.

Courtney

Courtney is Andy’s long-time friend and a supportive presence in his life. She is deeply connected to Andy, often helping him through his challenges and providing emotional support. Courtney comes from a background that includes a Navajo heritage, which she holds dear. Her father, Robert, is a firefighter, and she has grown up in a loving but sometimes challenging environment. Courtney is also a diligent student, balancing her schoolwork with her personal life.

Simon T. Burke

Simon T. Burke is the father of Andy and a successful businessman. He is known for his strict and demanding nature, setting high expectations for his son. Simon’s wealth and status are significant, but he believes strongly in the value of hard work and responsibility. He often imparts lessons to Andy about earning and deserving rewards, emphasizing the importance of personal achievement and diligence.

Uncle Fergus

Uncle Fergus is Andy’s eccentric Scottish uncle who lives with the Burke family. Known for his love of Scottish culture, he often wears traditional Scottish attire and plays the bagpipes. Fergus has been a part of the household for as long as Andy can remember, adding a touch of humor and whimsy to the family dynamics. He acts as a supportive figure for Andy, often lightening the mood with his playful antics.

Daniel Oaks

Daniel Oaks, often referred to as Brother Oaks, is a seminary teacher with a background in the military. He holds a degree in Chemistry obtained during ROTC and spent fifteen years in the army. Daniel is a supportive mentor to Andy, offering guidance and practical advice. His past experiences have shaped him into a strong, dependable figure who values discipline and knowledge.

Peter Grossmann

Peter Grossmann is a new student from Switzerland who has recently moved to the area. He quickly befriends Andy and Courtney, bringing a fresh perspective to their group. Peter speaks multiple languages, including a dialect of German and French, reflecting his multicultural background. He is adjusting to life in a new country while maintaining his European roots.

Robert

Robert Highfield is Courtney’s father and a dedicated firefighter. He is a loving and supportive parent, providing a stable and nurturing environment for Courtney. Robert’s wife, who was of Navajo heritage, has passed away, and he honors her memory by maintaining a close bond with their daughter and embracing her cultural background. Robert is known for his calm and composed demeanor, even in high-stress situations, a trait that serves him well in his profession.

Rachel

Rachel is a high school student who accidentally meets Andy when she spills a slushy on him, leading to an unexpected friendship. She is helpful and supportive, offering her assistance to Andy as he works on his business plan. Rachel’s family background includes an English professor father, which influences her articulate and thoughtful nature.