Mehndi Boy

BIPOC PROTAGONIST: demand is high for early chapter readers featuring BIPOC main characters

CELEBRATE SELF-EXPRESSION: celebrates creativity, artistic expression, and being unapologetically yourself with positive, uplifting representation of a boy exploring queerness and gender expression

DEBUT: a success story from Annick’s mentorship program for authors from communities historically excluded from children’s publishing, this is Zain’s first book

VIVID ILLUSTRATIONS: vibrant, full-color illustrations feature throughout

COMMUNITY REPRESENTATION: rich and nuanced representation of Indo-East African, Ismaili Muslim community

BACKMATTER EXTRAS: an activity available for readers and a glossary of terms used throughout the book

LEVELLING INFO: F-P Guided Code: K - Grade Two II. Lexile Code: 790L

"Delightful . . . the world needs more ‘mehndi boys!’” —Vivek Shraya, author of The Boy and the Bindi and God Loves Hair

“I was totally charmed by it.” —Ali Sethi, musician and author

An artistic, fashion-loving boy unlocks a new talent—and learns to stand up for it—in this chapter book perfect for fans of the Sadiq series and Meet Yasmin!

Tehzeeb drew curvy clouds, grand galaxies, squirmy squiggles, and delicate dots. He made charming checkerboards and even perfected paisleys. His practice was finally paying off!

The first time Tehzeeb tries mehndi, his passion for the art form blossoms. Soon, he’s creating designs for all his friends and family, and dreams of becoming the most in-demand mehndi artist in town. So Tez is hurt and confused when his favorite uncle tells him mehndi isn’t for boys. His art brings people joy. How could it be wrong? Tehzeeb doesn’t want to disappoint his uncle. But when a crisis before his cousin’s wedding puts his talents to the test, Tehzeeb must find the courage to be his true creative self.

Jani Balakumar’s expressive, vibrant illustrations bring Tehzeeb’s designs—and his community—to life. This charming, affirming story by debut author Zain Bandali will have you celebrating creativity, artistic expression, and being unapologetically yourself.

Readers can learn more about mehndi at home with activities at the end of the book.