Janna is an introspective Muslim American teenager who loves the writings of Flannery O'Connor and wears the hijab. Dealing with the fallout of her parents' divorce, she feels alienated and carries the heavy secret of a traumatic assault by a respected community member. She works part-time caring for an elderly neighbor and moderating an online religious advice column.

Janna's protective older brother who has recently moved back home after changing his major to philosophy. His decision to take a gap year creates friction in the family, particularly when he demands Janna's bedroom. He often acts as a contrast to Janna by aligning more closely with their mother and seeking a relationship with a devout girl.

Fizz's cousin and a highly respected figure in the local Muslim community due to his having memorized the entire Qur'an. Outwardly, he projects a model image of piety and righteousness. Privately, his continued presence in the community becomes a source of intense peril for Janna after he attacks her, forcing her into a terrified silence.

Janna's best friend from the mosque who holds strict views regarding Muslim standards of dress and behavior. She is deeply loyal to her family and quick to judge those who do not conform perfectly to her religious expectations. This rigid worldview creates a barrier that prevents Janna from sharing her darkest secret.

Janna's non-Muslim best friend from school. Optimistic and highly invested in matchmaking, she constantly tries to orchestrate romantic connections. Despite their cultural and religious differences, she is a steadfast and fiercely loyal presence in Janna's daily life.

A confident teenager who joins Janna's Islamic Quiz Bowl team. She chooses to wear a niqab and uses her traditional garments as a symbol of personal empowerment while actively engaging in social causes online through video content.

Janna's elderly, wise neighbor whom she escorts to the community center. An avid lover of literature, he serves as a patient and non-judgmental mentor. He often imparts philosophical advice about human nature and the importance of having pure intentions.

Janna's uncle and the prayer leader of the local mosque. He runs an online advice column for Muslim Americans seeking guidance on integrating their faith with modern life, hosting community open houses to bridge cultural gaps.

A white, non-Muslim boy at Janna's school who helps with the tech crew and the softball team. He is the object of Janna's intense crush. His friendship with Farooq and lack of shared cultural context complicate any potential connection.

The leader of Janna's study circle at the mosque, whom Janna dubs "Saint Sarah" due to her seemingly perfect devotion. Beautiful and devout, she represents an unattainable ideal of piety and is the focus of Muhammad's romantic pursuits.

Initially known to Janna as "Shazam!", Nuah is an enthusiastic community center employee with a talent for making the seniors smile. He attends Janna's mosque and joins her Islamic Quiz Bowl team.

Janna and Muhammad's divorced mother. She is beginning to move forward with her life by using a Muslim Marriage service and investing in new clothes, while attempting to manage the shifting dynamics of her household.

Janna's father, who distanced himself from the Islamic faith after the divorce to focus on his business. He sends out a weekly email chain that Janna faithfully reads and lives in Chicago with his new wife.

A student at Janna's school who is bullied and alienated for having a prominent birthmark on her face. Janna befriends her, recognizing their shared status as societal outsiders.

A popular but cruel girl at Janna's school. She refuses to interact with Sandra and actively engages in bullying, demonstrating a cold nature that contrasts with her fashionable exterior.

The gym teacher at Janna's school. She embarrasses Janna by loudly calling attention to her lack of a hijab when male students enter the gymnasium.

A fellow female student in Janna's math class. She acts as a practical study partner, helping Janna prepare for difficult tests using online materials.