Taqwa
Taqwa is the central character in "Due North," an intelligent and curious girl who wants to challenge her Muslim beliefs and do things differently. The Muslims in the United States of America are conservative in their traditions and beliefs. Taqwa is raised in a Muslim family where she is expected to follow her religion without question.
When her father dies, Taqwa is tasked to write his eulogy and tribute. In the accolade, Taqwa must include all aspects of her father's Muslim religion and history. However, Taqwa finds this unique and unnecessary. The burial approaches, and Taqwa realizes she has written nothing in her father's tribute.
Taqwa’s father
Taqwa's father is a Muslim leader and Imam. Taqwa's father raises his children in strict adherence to Muslim doctrines. However, Taqwa's father is worried about the influence of modernity that distracts the young Muslim generation from observing their religious beliefs seriously. When Taqwa's father dies, his daughter is asked to write his eulogy and tribute, something she finds hard to accomplish.
Sister Lucinda
Sister Lucinda is a tall and beautiful woman with attractive skin and green eyes that catches the attention of everyone. Sister Lucinda is respectful because she follows the orders of her seniors without question. In addition, Lucinda is a welcoming person because she greets every person she meets with a soft voice.
Sister Memphis
Sister Memphis is a strict lieutenant who expects her juniors to execute duties according to her instructions. Sister Memphis cannot tolerate any person who deviates from her orders. When a person fails to do tasks according to Sister Memphis' instructions, he has to repeat a similar task severally until the required perfection is achieved.
Sister Norah
Sister Norah is the central character in "Candy for Hanif." Sister Norah is a caring and loving woman who ensures her disabled son is comfortable and happy. Sister Norah makes frequent trips to the shop to buy her son candies. Sister Norah is a widow, and she has to do everything to cater to the family, including caring for Hanif.
Sister Carol
Sister Carol is a recruit, aged 22. Sister Carol is a sharp-eyed woman who wants to understand why Sister Memphis is overly unhappy and strict with her work. Sister Carol works under Sister Memphis and repeats tasks several times to meet Memphis' job descriptions.
