Hena Khan

Where does hope live? In your family? In your community? In your school? In your heart? From a family restaurant to a hot-dog shaped car, from an empty road on a moonlit night to a classroom holiday celebration, this anthology of personal stories from award-winning and bestselling authors, shows that hope can live everywhere, even—or especially—during the darkest of times. No matter what happens: Hope wins. Contributors include: Tom Angleberger, James Bird, Max Brallier, Julie Buxbaum, Pablo Cartaya, J.C. Cervantes, Soman Chainani, Matt de la Peña, Stuart Gibbs, Adam Gidwitz, Karina Yan Glaser, Veera Hiranandani, Hena Khan, Gordon Korman, Janae Marks, Sarah Mlynowski, Rex Ogle, James Ponti, Pam Muñoz Ryan, Ronald L.Smith, Christina Soontornvat, and R.L. Stine.

In a collection of personal stories and essays, award-winning and bestselling artists from Matt de la Peña and Veera Hiranandani to Max Brallier and R.L. Stine write about how hope always wins, even in the darkest of times.Where does hope live?In your family?In your community?In your school?In your heart?From a family restaurant to a hot-dog shaped car, from an empty road on a moonlight night to a classroom holiday celebration, this anthology of personal stories from award-winning and bestselling authors, shows that hope can live everywhere, even—or especially—during the darkest of times.No matter what happens: Hope wins.Contributors include: Tom Angleberger, James Bird, Max Brallier, Julie Buxbaum, Pablo Cartaya, J.C. Cervantes, Soman Chainani, Matt de la Peña, Stuart Gibbs, Adam Gidwitz, Karina Yan Glaser, Veera Hiranandani, Hena Khan, Gordon Korman, Janae Marks, Sarah Mlynowski, Rex Ogle, James Ponti, Pam Muñoz Ryan, Ronald L.Smith, Christina Soontornvat, and R.L. Stine.

Now available in a sturdy board book edition, this lyrical and reassuring bedtime story is a tender celebration of love, faith, and the precious hopes parents hold for their children. “[A] peaceful incantation.”-Publishers Weekly, starred review This beloved story by award-winning author Hena Khan offers a heartfelt message of unconditional love and faith. With gentle, poetic language inspired by the Quran, it expresses a parent’s deepest wishes for their child: wonder in the natural world, kindness in their heart, strength in times of challenge, and an abiding sense of being cherished. Each page begins with the word “Inshallah” (“God willing”), grounding the text in Muslim tradition while delivering a message that resonates universally—every child is loved, valued, and full of promise. The rhythmic prose makes this an ideal read-aloud for winding down at the end of the day, creating a peaceful moment of connection between parent and child. Paired with warm, vibrant illustrations, the book radiates comfort and serenity, making it a soothing addition to any bedtime routine.

Islamic culture and the early-learning concept of opposites come together in this stunning companion to Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns. From the warmth of burning incense to the coolness of summer rain, this richly illustrated book of opposites is a feast for the senses, celebrating Islamic culture and family togetherness through special occasions, big and small. Like Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns, Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets, and One Sun and Countless Stars, this latest offering features Mehrdokht Amini's signature mixed-media illustrations and Hena Khan's rhyming read-aloud text and informative back matter. It is equally at home in the classroom and being read on a parent's lap.

From the award-winning author of Amina’s Voice and Amina’s Song comes a “nuanced and quietly powerful” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review) middle grade novel about a young Pakistani American artist determined to manage her anxiety and forge her own creative path. Deena’s never given a name to the familiar knot in her stomach that appears when her parents argue about money, when it’s time to go to school, or when she struggles to find the right words. She manages to make it through each day with the help of her friends and the art she loves to make. While her parents’ money troubles cause more and more stress, Deena wonders if she can use her artistic talents to ease their burden. She creates a logo and social media account to promote her mom’s home-based business selling clothes from Pakistan to the local community. With her cousin and friends modeling the outfits and lending their social media know-how, business picks up. But the success and attention make Deena’s cousin and best friend, Parisa, start to act funny. Suddenly Deena’s latest creative outlet becomes another thing that makes her feel nauseated and unsure of herself. After Deena reaches a breaking point, both she and her mother learn the importance of asking for help and that, with the right support, Deena can create something truly beautiful.

From award-winning author Hena Khan and acclaimed illustrator Sandhya Prabhat is a sweetly authentic story about overcoming anxieties and dancing your way to confidence! Talia wants to be as graceful as the bhangra dancers at the mehndi – a traditional South Asian pre-wedding celebration. But her feet drag and her arms freeze when she tries to dance in front of others. Instead, she sits in her chair. But with some help from her dadi (grandmother), will Talia find the courage to take to the floor? And can she convince Dadi to join her? A beautifully crafted story, with lyrical text that is brought to life by vibrant illustrations. Featuring an illustrated glossary.

In this vibrant, bighearted picture book by celebrated creators Hena Khan and Sandhya Prabhat, a young girl must overcome her shyness to join in the dancing fun at a mehndi.Talia wants to be as graceful as the bhangra dancers at the mehndi: Bend Twirl Snap But her feet drag and her arms freeze when she tries to dance in front of others. Instead, she shrinks in her chair. But maybe with some help from her dadi, Talia will find the courage to take to the floor. Then, can she convince Dadi to join her?Acclaimed author Hena Khan has crafted a sweetly authentic story about overcoming inhibitions through the joys of dance, community, and family. Her text is beautifully brought to life by Sandhya Prabhat's stunning illustrations.

SWISH Cheer courtside for a Muslim teen as she joins an all-girls, hijab-wearing basketball team and learns that she's much more than a score. This energetic graphic novel is inspired by a true story Aliya is new to Wisconsin, and everything feels different than Florida. The Islamic school is bigger, the city is colder, and her new basketball team is...well, they stink. Aliya's still excited to have teammates (although the team's captain, Noura, isn't really Aliya's biggest fan), and their new coach really understands basketball (even if she doesn't know much about being Muslim). This season should be a blast...if they could just start to win. As they strengthen their skills on the court, Aliya and the Peace Academy team discover that it takes more than talent to be great--it's teamwork and self-confidence that defines true success. For fans of The Crossover and Roller Girl, this graphic novel goes big with humor and heart as it explores culture and perceptions, fitting in and standing out, and finding yourself, both on and off the court.

SWISH Cheer courtside for a Muslim teen as she joins an all-girls, hijab-wearing basketball team and learns that she's much more than a score. This energetic graphic novel is inspired by a true story Aliya is new to Wisconsin, and everything feels different than Florida. The Islamic school is bigger, the city is colder, and her new basketball team is...well, they stink. Aliya's still excited to have teammates (although the team's captain, Noura, isn't really Aliya's biggest fan), and their new coach really understands basketball (even if she doesn't know much about being Muslim). This season should be a blast...if they could just start to win. As they strengthen their skills on the court, Aliya and the Peace Academy team discover that it takes more than talent to be great--it's teamwork and self-confidence that defines true success. For fans of The Crossover and Roller Girl, this graphic novel goes big with humor and heart as it explores culture and perceptions, fitting in and standing out, and finding yourself, both on and off the court.

SWISH Cheer courtside for a Muslim teen in this graphic novel--inspired by a true story--as she joins an all-girls, hijab-wearing basketball team and learns that she's much more than a score. Aliya is new to Wisconsin, and everything feels different than Florida. The Islamic school is bigger, the city is colder, and her new basketball team is... well, they stink. Aliya's still excited to have teammates (although Noura's not really Aliya's biggest fan) and their new coach really understands basketball (even if she doesn't know much about being Muslim.) This season should be a blast...if they could just start to win. Join Aliya and the Peace Academy on a headline-making season where they strengthen their skills and their Muslim identities--all while discovering that it takes more than talent to be great, and that teamwork and self-confidence can define true success. For fans of The Crossover and Roller Girl, this graphic novel goes big with humor and heart as it explores culture and perceptions, fitting in and standing out, and finding yourself, both on and off the court.

Come learn about the oldest operating library in existence that was originally founded by a Muslim woman in 859 Merhaba Welcome Meet Al-Qarawiyyin Library--the oldest library in the world. Do you want to see what magical treasures are behind its doors? You'll find special reading rooms where young and old gathered to discuss, debate, and discover the world. And, most important, the collection of books that hold knowledge more valuable than any jewels Open its doors, unlock its story, and discover an adventure that only a library can share. Told from the unique perspective of the library, award-winning author Hena Khan, along with luminous illustrations by Nabila Adani, bring to readers Behind My Doors, a charming ode to the magical wonders of each and every library.

From the award-winning author of Amina’s Voice and Amina’s Song comes a tenderhearted middle grade novel about a young Pakistani American artist determined to manage her anxiety and forge her own creative path. Deena’s never given a name to the familiar knot in her stomach that appears when her parents argue about money, when it’s time to go to school, or when she struggles to find the right words. She manages to make it through each day with the help of her friends and the art she loves to make. While her parents’ money troubles cause more and more stress, Deena wonders if she can use her artistic talents to ease their burden. She creates a logo and social media account to promote her mom’s home-based business selling clothes from Pakistan to the local community. With her cousin and friends modeling the outfits and lending their social media know-how, business picks up. But the success and attention make Deena’s cousin and best friend, Parisa, start to act funny. Suddenly Deena’s latest creative outlet becomes another thing that makes her feel nauseated and unsure of herself. After Deena reaches a breaking point, both she and her mother learn the importance of asking for help and that, with the right support, Deena can create something truly beautiful.

Join Zain and his dad on a special visit to their local mosque to attend jumu'ah prayers in this heartwarming picture book from the author of Under My Hijab.Early Friday morning, Zain leaps out of bed ready to save the world from alien invaders But his dad has other plans for Zain on this special day of the week. Dad takes Zain to the mosque and guides him through his first jumu'ah prayers. But Zain's quest for a superhero adventure leads to supersize distractions. Can Zain rein in his powerful impulses and appreciate this special experience with his dad and community? With spirited text by award-winning author Hena Khan and dynamic illustrations by artist Nez Riaz, Zain's Super Friday is a celebration of Muslim traditions, imagination, and the joy of community.

From the beloved author of Amina’s Voice come the first three books in the humor-filled Zara’s Rules middle grade series starring a young Muslim girl with an endless list of hobbies and lots of big ideas for getting the most out of every situation—now together in a collectible paperback boxed set. Meet Zara Saleem, the queen of the neighborhood. Zara’s in charge of it all: she organizes the games, picks the teams, and makes sure everyone has a good time…and they always do. When a new family moves in across the street, suddenly Zara’?s reign is threatened by Naomi, who has big ideas of her own about how the neighborhood kids can have fun. To get everyone to notice her again, Zara decides she’s going to break a Guinness World Record—if her little brother Zayd doesn’t mess things up. But when she finds herself increasingly alone in her record-breaking quest, Zara starts to wonder if sharing the crown and making a new friend might end up being the best rule of all. Zara’s mishaps continue when her fundraising project for a new bike goes awry and her spring break isn’t shaping up to be what she hoped. This delightful paperback boxed set includes: Zara’s Rules for Record-Breaking Fun Zara’s Rules for Finding Hidden Treasure Zara’s Rules for Living Your Best Life

From the award-winning author of Amina’s Voice and Amina’s Song comes the third book in the charming middle grade Zara’s Rules series following Zara as she tries to save her spring break!It’s spring break and Zara and Naomi have big plans…until Zara finds out that Naomi’s parents are sending her to camp and Zara and Zayd are going to spend the week with their grandparents. Zara’s pretty sure it’s a rule that spring break is supposed to be full of fun and adventure—not doing chores for Naano and watching Nana Abu doze on the couch! But ever since Nana Abu retired, it seems all he wants to do is eat and sleep, and Zara’s worried their grandfather has lost his mojo. Meanwhile, Naomi’s having a blast at her day camp. Since Zara can’t join her, can Zara find a way to bring the fun of camp to her grandparents’ home? With a little help from Zayd, Zara concocts a plan that just might save her vacation—and help her grandfather start living his best life.

Winner of the Asian/Pacific American Award for Children’s Literature“For inspiring empathy in young readers, you can’t get better than this book.” —R. J. Palacio, #1 New York Times bestselling author of WonderIn the companion novel to the beloved and award-winning Amina’s Voice, Amina once again uses her voice to bridge the places, people, and communities she loves—this time across continents. It’s the last few days of her vacation in Pakistan, and Amina has loved every minute of it. The food, the shops, the time she’s spent with her family—all of it holds a special place in Amina’s heart. Now that the school year is starting again, she’s sad to leave, but also excited to share the wonders of Pakistan with her friends back in Greendale. After she’s home, though, her friends don’t seem overly interested in her trip. And when she decides to do a presentation on Pakistani hero Malala Yousafzai, her classmates focus on the worst parts of the story. How can Amina share the beauty of Pakistan when no one wants to listen?

Are you a hero or a villain? Pick your path in this action-packed, illustrated origin story where the reader - yes, that means YOU - gets the power of invisibility and must decide, choice by choice, whether to use their abilities for good or evil. Your ordinary morning in the park quickly turns extraordinary when you stumble upon a strange device that can turn you invisible with the press of a button Now it's up to you to decide how to use the power: Will you look into the device's terrifying and inhuman origins to see how you can use your abilities to help the planet? Will you team up with the ones who created the device and use your newfound ability to gain power and influence over everyone in your path? Or will you make the wrong choice and meet an ill-fated end? Follow the choices, pick your path, and disappear to help find your destiny. This looks like a job for Super You

From the award-winning author of Amina's Voice and Amina's Song comes the third book in the charming middle grade Zara's Rules series following Zara as she tries to save her spring break It's spring break and Zara and Naomi have big plans...until Zara finds out that Naomi's parents are sending her to camp and Zara and Zayd are going to spend the week with their grandparents. Zara's pretty sure it's a rule that spring break is supposed to be full of fun and adventure--not doing chores for Naano and watching Nana Abu doze on the couch But ever since Nana Abu retired, it seems all he wants to do is eat and sleep, and Zara's worried their grandfather has lost his mojo. Meanwhile, Naomi's having a blast at her day camp. Since Zara can't join her, can Zara find a way to bring the fun of camp to her grandparents' home? With a little help from Zayd, Zara concocts a plan that just might save her vacation--and help her grandfather start living his best life.

From the beloved author of Amina’s Voice comes the second book in the delightful Zara’s Rules middle grade series following Zara as she starts her own business!Zara lives for bike rides with her friends—so when her shiny, brand-new bike goes missing from the park one day, she’s crushed. After her parents insist she earn the money for another one herself, Zara’s determined to start a business. But what kind? A lemonade stand? Not profitable enough. Selling painted rocks? Not enough customers. Zara’s starting to get discouraged when she and her friend Naomi finally come up with the perfect idea: The Treasure Wagon, a roving garage sale that unloads knickknacks from the Saleem family basement and makes money all at once! But when a mix-up gets Zara in hot water again, will she have to give up everything she’s earned toward her new bike?