Kareem is a middle school student with a deep passion for the Chicago Bears and American football. Caught between his American upbringing and his Syrian heritage, he struggles with feeling invisible after his best friend moves away. He desperately wants to make the school football team to find a sense of belonging, relying on books and his Muslim faith for comfort when social situations become difficult.

Austin is the popular quarterback of the middle school football team and the son of the coach. Arrogant and accustomed to getting his way, he uses his social status to pressure others. He offers Kareem a spot on the football team in exchange for doing his schoolwork, frequently disrespecting Kareem's Syrian heritage by calling him 'K.'

Mama is Kareem's kind but firm mother. She acts as the organizing force of the Moussa household and dedicates her time to the local Muslim community by helping refugees find housing and work. Deeply tied to her family in Syria, she provides gentle guidance to her children and insists on giving back to those in need.

Baba is a cardiologist and the loving father of the Moussa children. He faces the stress of managing a busy medical career while trying to hold the family together during difficult times. Because he risks conscription if he returns to Syria, he relies on Mama to travel while he remains in the United States to protect his children.

Fadi is a recently relocated refugee from Syria who looks like a typical Midwesterner with blonde hair and blue eyes but speaks perfect Arabic. Polite and considerate, he tries to build a connection with Kareem. He faces xenophobic bullying at school but maintains his self-respect and kindness.

Jerry is a middle school student who loves playing football for fun rather than for the serious school team. He is observant and principled, quickly offering tips to improve Kareem's throwing arm. He holds his classmates accountable for their actions and stands up for marginalized students when others hesitate.

Jameelah is Kareem's strong-minded older sister. Proud of her Muslim identity, she confidently wears her hijab and refuses to let others dictate her expression of faith. Though she frequently bickers with Kareem and acts bossy toward her younger brothers, she is fiercely protective of her family and passionate about justice.

Jido is Kareem's beloved grandfather living in war-torn Syria. Despite never having met Kareem in person, the two share a close bond over their weekly phone calls. Jido is patient with Kareem's struggling Arabic and offers wise, empathetic advice to help his grandson manage his emotions.

Sameer is Kareem and Jameelah's youngest brother. He is an energetic young boy who enjoys playing with Play-Doh and often requires looking after by his older siblings.

Adam is Kareem's childhood best friend who taught him how to throw a football before they could read. His recent move away from town leaves Kareem feeling isolated and desperate for new connections.

Coach is the middle school gym teacher and the head of the football team. As Austin's father, he places high expectations on his players and assesses their skills during physical education classes.

Khale Afaf is a friend of the Moussa family who helps teach Arabic class at the mosque. She is engaged to a man from Yemen and experiences the stress of the United States immigration system as she hopes for him to secure a visa.

Tete is Kareem's grandmother who lives in Syria with her husband, Jido. She relies on her daughter's help to survive the dangers of the ongoing civil war.

Stanley Jones is a local news anchor whose office is next door to the library. He is a professional journalist who looks into stories concerning the local community and national policies.