Noor’s cousin is getting married tomorrow, and tonight, her family is throwing her a henna party. They will sing traditional songs, eat delicious treats, and have their hands painted in swirling designs using a dye called henna. Noor is especially excited to play the henna name game. The henna artist will hide the name of the person Noor loves the most in the pattern she paints on Noor’s hands. But whose name will Noor choose? As Noor encounters each member of her family, she finds it harder and harder to make her choice. What should she do if she loves them all? A heart-warming story that traces the patterns of family love through the age-old South Asian tradition of painting with henna.
BookTrust Books We Love in February 2024
Inclusive Books for Children Top Pick
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Humera Malik is a teacher-turned-writer of Muslim faith and Pakistani roots. She enjoys bringing to life relatable characters that celebrate her South Asian heritage and culture. She currently resides in Arlington, Virginia with her husband and three children.
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Sonali Zohra is an illustrator of Indian heritage who combines her training in fine art, photography and design with her love of nature and philosophy to inspire her illustrative work. She is based in Salt Spring Island, Canada.
“The book’s vivid, whimsical illustrations beautifully accompany the tender, well-paced text. Clear explanations of the henna party make this title a good window for children unfamiliar with the tradition. A sweet, gentle tale about tradition, family, and celebration.”
- Kirkus Reviews
“Zohra’s illustrations are beautifully whimsical and full of detail. She does a brilliant job of depicting the wonderful colours and textures you’d find at a South Asian celebration. The colour palette is warm and welcoming and the artwork is expressive and oozes joy.”
- BookTrust, Books We Love in February 2024
“As readers delve into the pages of The Great Henna Party, they embark on a heartwarming journey alongside Noor, the protagonist, as she navigates the complexities of family love amidst the joyous festivities of a henna party. Through Noor’s story, Humera intricately weaves themes of self-discovery and familial bonds, inviting readers to explore the universal language of love.”
– Desi Blitz
“The palpable excitement of the party, the years of tradition, the importance of maintaining these cultural practices and events are all evident in this magical story.”
– Armadillo Magazine
"This is a truly delightful celebration of family and of culture. I love the warm colour palette and richly patterned illustrations Sonali Zohra has used. A lovely book to share with KS1 children."
– Jill Bennett, Librarian, Red Reading Hub
