Fatima

Fatima is the narrator and protagonist of the novel. Her evolution throughout the novel demonstrates the powerful impact Iqbal had on those around him. Before Iqbal comes to the factory, she is quiet and keeps to herself like all the others do. She is bonded in a carpet factory because her family needed to borrow money, and her work serves as repayment. She tries to believe that she will be released when her time comes despite evidence to the contrary.

She is intrigued by Iqbal when he comes, and the two form a fast and meaningful friendship. They speak at night, and Iqbal tells her one day that he will take her to fly a kite the next summer. She, along with the others, brings Iqbal food and water when he is in the Tomb, and they maintain their friendship throughout their time at the carpet factory.

Fatima...