Introduction
The Henna Wars by Adiba Jaigirdar is a novel that captures the essence of what it means to be a teenager. It follows the journey of Nishat, a young lesbian Bangladeshi girl living in Ireland, as she navigates her way through high school and discovers herself. The book deals with themes of identity, culture, and sexuality, making it a must-read for young adults.
Plot Summary
Nishat is a talented artist who loves henna, a traditional form of body art. When her school announces a competition to create a business, Nishat decides to team up with her best friend, Jess, to start a henna business. However, things take a turn when a popular girl named Flávia also decides to start a henna business, and Nishat realizes that Flávia has been appropriating henna culture without understanding its significance.
Themes
The Henna Wars deals with several important themes, including identity, culture, and sexuality. Nishat struggles to come to terms with her sexuality and cultural identity, as she feels torn between her Bangladeshi heritage and her Irish upbringing. The book also explores the concept of cultural appropriation and the harm it can cause.
Character Development
One of the strongest aspects of The Henna Wars is the character development. Nishat is a relatable and well-developed character who undergoes a significant transformation throughout the novel. The supporting characters, including Jess and Flávia, are also well-written and add depth to the story.
Writing Style
Adiba Jaigirdar’s writing style is engaging and easy to read. She has a talent for capturing the emotions of her characters and making the reader feel invested in their journey. The book also has a strong sense of place, with descriptions of Ireland and Bangladeshi culture adding to the overall atmosphere.
Representation
The Henna Wars is an important book for representation, as it features a Bangladeshi lesbian protagonist. The book also explores issues of cultural identity and the experiences of immigrants living in Ireland. The representation of these themes is done in a thoughtful and nuanced way.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Henna Wars is a must-read for young adults. It deals with important themes and features well-developed characters in a compelling story. Adiba Jaigirdar’s writing style is engaging, and the representation of Bangladeshi and LGBTQ+ characters is done in a thoughtful and nuanced way. This book is a great addition to any YA fiction fan’s bookshelf.