Characterization in Zeitoun

Abdulrahman Zeitoun was born in Syria, but now operates his own painting business in New Orleans. He is a practicing Muslim, and despite racism and prejudice following 9/11, has earned respect from his friends and the people he works with for his devotion to work and family. His true colors shine after Hurricane Katrina hits the city, as he selflessly deploys his services to save and assist those in need. He goes simply by 'Zeitoun' in the novel.

Kathy Zeitoun is Zeitoun's wife. Unlike him, she is from New Orleans, but actually converted to Islam before ever meeting Zeitoun. She loves her family and supports her husband in everything he does. She takes her family away from the city of New Orleans before the storm hits, but worries constantly about her husband who is still in the city with very little communication.

Ahmad Zeitoun is Abdulrahman's older brother. He was a role model for his siblings when they were younger, and taught Abdulrahman how to fish and sail.

Nademah, Safiyah & Aisha are Zeitoun's three daughters. They are aged 10, 7, and 5, respectively, and are deeply upset by the news of their father being jailed.

Rob Stanislaw & Walt Thompson are great friends and clients of the Zeitoun family. Being a gay couple, they represent a community of social outliers along with the Muslim Zeitoun family. 

Todd Gambino is a friend of Zeitoun's who helps him survive the flooding. They work together to save people and deliver food.

Yuko is a friend of Kathy's who shelters her and her family after they flee the impending storm in New Orleans.

Mohammed Zeitoun is another of Abdulraman's older brothers. He was a famous ocean swimmer back in Syria, and instilled in Abdulrahman the core values of selflessness and hard-work that make Abdulrahman such a respected man today. 

Donald Lima is the police officer who unjustly arrests Zeitoun.

Raleigh Ohlmeyer is a lawyer who helps Kathy free Zeitoun from his imprisonment.