Neighborhood Kids

Real-world peers who challenge Calvin's imagination with mundane reality.

The neighborhood kids in Calvin and Hobbes serve as the primary peer group inhabiting Calvin's suburban environment, grounding his wild fantasies in mundane reality. While the strip focuses heavily on Calvin and his imaginary friend Hobbes, these real-world children represent the social hierarchy Calvin must navigate outside of school. Unlike the private, imaginative adventures shared with Hobbes, interactions within this group are governed by strict peer rules and often result in conflict or rejection of Calvin's elaborate schemes.

Quick Facts

Key members: Susie Derkins and others

Lore & Background

She lives on Calvin's residential street and first appeared as a neighbor (in the strip from November 5, 1985) before being shown as a classmate. In sharp contrast to Calvin, Susie is described as polite, diligent in her studies, and possessing a mild-mannered imagination focused on games like playing 'house' or hosting tea parties with stuffed animals. In one strip (from November 11, 1990), Susie throws a snowball back at Calvin after he throws one at her. Susie frequently serves as the target of Calvin's derision and plots, such as water balloons and snowballs, but she is also willing to retaliate when provoked.

Reader's Guide

She lives on Calvin's street and attends his school. Her characterization is defined by her diligence and civilized imagination, which clashes with Calvin's chaotic worldview. While she often falls victim to his water balloons or snowballs, she maintains a polite demeanor and occasionally challenges him directly. Therefore, the guide focuses on Susie as the central figure of this group.

Did You Know?

Susie Derkins is one of several recurring characters with both a forename and a surname, such as Miss Wormwood and Mr. Spittle.
Susie was named after Bill Watterson's in-laws' family beagle.
Unlike Calvin, who has an elaborate imaginary world, Susie's imagination is described as mild-mannered and civilized, involving games like tea parties.