Drew is the 12-year-old protagonist of the story. He dislikes being outside and getting dirty, sun-burned, and bug-bitten like his parents do during their archeological digs. Drew is gentle and non-confrontational. He is fearful about many things and chastises himself for not being brave enough to stand up to the bully who bothers him back in Chicago. He is also empathetic and kind, willingly trading places with Andrew initially so that the dying boy can receive modern medical care for his diphtheria.

Drew has trouble adjusting to life in his new time period. He struggles to be as courageous and bold as Andrew and his non-confrontational nature allows Edward to pick on him even more. He does not understand the social conventions of Andrew’s time and must deduce how to behave based on social cues. Because of Andrew’s fever, Drew’s new family members give him a lot of leeway, attributing his lapses in memory to effects of the illness. At first, Drew stays in bed and behaves sickly, as he is too afraid to participate more. He tries to convince Andrew to let him switch back but allows himself to be talked into the deal where he must beat Andrew at

Don't Miss Out!

Access Study Guide Now