The story follows a young artist, Deena Rahman who loves Arts. She wants to pursue it as a career but her family doesn’t support her. Deena is a Pakistani-American girl who lives in a complex family. In the first storyline, Deena’s family doesn’t allow her to have any social accounts. In comparison, her cousin Parisa is a social media star. The family complexes, increase conflicts and lead Deena to deal with anxiety. Anxiety that results in severe panic attacks nausea and sometimes Malaise.
Deena uses her artistic skills to overcome this anxiety and help her family financially. Logo and social accounts made by her help her mother improve her business. Deena’s creative outlets help her in this regard. They slowly learn the power of help and excel in their efforts.
Main characters of the novel Drawing Deena:
There are many kinds of characters in the story like Deena’s family but the main character of the novel is Deena Rahman. Family roles include complexes, conflicts, and a non-supportive environment so Dena feels anxiety in her family. Another anxiety cause is that Deena’s cousin’s sister is a social media star but she is the one who cannot use any social accounts.
Deena Rahman:
Deena Rahman is the main character of the novel. She is an American-Pakistani girl who is deeply involved in the arts. Deena Rahman is a middle-grade student who enjoys the arts, but unlike other teenagers, she is a sensitive girl who cherishes her family. Meanwhile, the complex family dynamics and the family conflicts have somewhat taken her to anxiety and depression.
Main Themes:
Drawing Deena explores many themes including, Identity and Self-discovery. The novel also navigates with trauma that teenagers go through. The novel clarifies how to deal with family conflicts and how to improve Mental Health. The Power of Art, Family and Cultural Expectation, and Friendship and Support are also supported as the important aspects of this story.
| Title | Drawing Deena |
| Author | Hena Khan |
| Publishing date | February 6, 2024 |
| Genre | middle-grade, art, self-identity, realistic fiction, mental health, fiction |
| Rating | 5/5 stars |
FAQs:
Drawing Deena is a heartwarming story by Hena Khan about a young girl, Deena. Deena uses her art to navigate the challenges of growing up. She balances her cultural identity, friendships, and personal aspirations
The main character is Deena, a creative and passionate artist exploring her identity and relationships while staying true to herself.
Yes, Drawing Deena is a middle-grade novel suitable for readers aged 8–12. It’s perfect for young readers who enjoy stories about self-discovery and creative expression.
The novel touches on cultural identity, friendship, self-expression, and family dynamics. It’s a relatable story for anyone because of realistic emotions and social and personal blends.
