Casting

The poor pauper boy. He wants to learn how to read so he can travel to far-off magical places in his imagination. Adventurous, earnest, naïve.

Generous and kind, but also raised with a certain degree of wild expectations about being catered to in life. Soldier-like, in spite of his young age, and curious and boyish.

Tom's no-nonsense father. Claims he has no time for the pleasures of reading and daydreaming. He's a thief and a bully determined to make a dollar any way he can.

A swashbuckling knight who rides around the country and saves those in need. Gallant. Brave. Over-the-top. Born noble but has been reduced to poverty.

Edward's minister playing a sort of guardian/advisor role to Edward. Intolerant and snobbish, yet he cares deeply for Edward.

A thieving pickpocket who embraces the life he has been brought into. Scrappy, vindictive, boyish.

A former farmer and now thief. Lost his land, became a slave, then ran away to join John's band of pickpockets. He is a good man deep down inside.

Edward's cousin. Tries to help take care of her cousin and loves Miles, despite the current lack of money or power. Sweet, kind, pretty.

A swindling judge who blackmails those appearing before her. Conniving, self-absorbed, and malicious. Perhaps a drunk as well.