A Heartwarming Journey of Art and Resilience – “Drawing Deena” by Hena Khan

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Synopsis

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.

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Author Information

Hena Khan is a Pakistani American writer. She is the author of the middle grade novels Amina’s Voice, Amina’s Song, More to the Story, Drawing Deena, and the Zara’s Rules series and picture books Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns, Under My Hijab, and It’s Ramadan, Curious George, among others. Hena lives in her hometown of Rockville, Maryland, with her family. 

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Why Should You Read This?

Drawing Deena, the latest masterpiece from the talented Hena Khan, is a beautifully crafted middle-grade novel that skillfully navigates the delicate balance between creativity, anxiety, and the strength that lies within familial bonds.

The protagonist, Deena, is a young Pakistani American artist facing the universal struggles of adolescence compounded by the weight of her parents’ financial woes. Khan’s writing deftly captures the nuances of Deena’s emotions, describing the familiar knot in her stomach that plagues her during moments of tension and uncertainty. This tangible portrayal of anxiety adds a layer of authenticity to Deena’s character, making her journey all the more relatable for readers of all ages.

The narrative unfolds with a perfect blend of sensitivity and humor, as Deena turns to her passion for art to cope with life’s challenges. The ingenious idea of using her artistic talents to support her family’s business adds a unique and refreshing twist to the story, providing young readers with a valuable lesson in resilience and resourcefulness.

Khan not only explores the power of art as a therapeutic outlet but also delves into the complexities of friendships and family dynamics. Deena’s relationship with her best friend and cousin, Parisa, takes a compelling turn as success and attention bring unforeseen challenges. The author handles these themes with grace and empathy, allowing readers to witness the characters’ growth and self-discovery.

What truly sets Drawing Deena apart is its ability to impart meaningful life lessons without sacrificing the enchantment of the storytelling. The narrative unfolds with a gentle rhythm, capturing the reader’s attention and heart from start to finish. The diverse cast of characters adds depth to the narrative, offering a rich tapestry of perspectives that will resonate with readers from various backgrounds.

Ultimately, Drawing Deena is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the transformative power of art. Hena Khan has once again proven her prowess in crafting emotionally resonant stories for young readers. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a heartwarming tale of self-discovery and the unwavering strength found in family and friendship.