Nimra Sharif is the protagonist and first-person narrator of the novel. Her coming-of-age narrative arc guides the novel’s plot and central conflicts. At the beginning of the novel, Nimra is 12 years old and has just finished sixth grade at a private Islamic school called Guided Light Academy. Nimra lives with her parents, Mama and Baba, in Virginia. She feels comfortable with herself, her family, her Pakistani culture, and her Muslim faith.

Nimra’s sense of self changes when she begins seventh grade at Farmwell Station Middle School. She’s initially excited to attend public school because she’ll be able to see her best friend, Jenna Birdie, every day. However, when Jenna starts discriminating against Nimra for being Muslim, Nimra feels rejected and alone. She has counted on Jenna for stability and balance throughout her childhood because they’ve been close since they were little girls. Without Jenna, Nimra isn’t sure who she’s supposed to be or how to express herself.

When Nimra befriends Waleed, Balil, Matthew, and Khadijah, her time at Farmwell changes. Her new friends all share her Muslim faith. They’re also passionate about art and music.