Hena Khan

Hena Khan is a Pakistani-American author known for her children's literature, often focusing on Muslim and Pakistani-American characters. Her work includes picture books, middle-grade fiction, pick-your-path adventures, and graphic novels.

She is best known for Amina's Voice (2017) and More to the Story (2020), with Amina's Song (2022) winning the Asian/Pacific American Award for Children's Literature.

Born and raised in Maryland to Pakistani immigrants, Hena Khan was the second of four children. Growing up, she enjoyed reading books from her local library, which inspired her love of storytelling. She attended The George Washington University, receiving a Master's degree in International Affairs.

Before becoming a full-time writer, Khan was a writer and editor for non-profit health and research organisations.

Khan's debut, Amina's Voice, was the first book published under Simon & Schuster's Salaam Reads imprint. It received widespread acclaim, making the Washington Post's and NPR's best book lists of 2017.

Khan reflects, "I wanted to write stories that would resonate with young readers and show them that Muslim children have stories worth telling." Her focus on the relatable experiences of children in diverse communities has made her a prominent voice in children's literature.

In addition to Amina's Voice, Khan has written several successful series. The Zayd Saleem Chasing the Dream series (2018) follows a young boy's ambition to become a basketball star, while Zara's Rules (2022) captures childhood adventures and life lessons. Her picture books, such as Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns (2013), showcase Islamic culture and traditions through vibrant illustrations.

In 2016, Khan published Under My Hijab, which addresses common questions and misconceptions about the hijab. "I wanted to show that Muslim women are not limited in any way by wearing the hijab," she said in an interview. "They are modern, they are independent, they are strong. They are American."

Khan's work has won numerous awards, including the NCTE Charlotte Huck Outstanding Fiction Honour Title for Zara's Rules for Record-Breaking Fun (2023) and the Middle East Book Award Honourable Mention for Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets (2018).

Hena Khan lives in her hometown of Rockville, Maryland.

Photo credit: henakhan.com