My Name Is Khadija

My Name Is Khadija: A Story About Identity and Self-Expression | Hook Books

Introduction

What happens when a young girl decides she doesn't like her name and wants to change it? My Name Is Khadija by Mariyam Fatima, with illustrations by Isha Nagar, follows Khadija as she tries to find a way to solve a problem that matters deeply to her. Set in Uttar Pradesh, this engaging story invites young readers to explore identity, family, and self-expression through an age-appropriate adventure.

About This Book

Khadija wants a new name, but the people around her do not agree that she should change it. As she tries to work out what to do, her journey becomes an opportunity to think about names, identity, family, and the things that make each person unique.

Part of the Hook Books series, this paperback is designed for young readers aged 5 and above. The series combines short, accessible text with colourful illustrations and stories rooted in different settings across India, creating an approachable bridge between picture books and early chapter books.

What You’ll Discover

• A relatable story about identity: Follow Khadija as she thinks about her name and what it means to her.
• Self-expression and confidence: Explore a child's desire to express her own feelings and ideas.
• Family and belonging: See how Khadija's questions connect with the people and world around her.
• A setting in Uttar Pradesh: Experience a children's story rooted in an Indian setting.
• Accessible early reading: Short text and colourful illustrations support young readers as they develop their reading confidence.

Perfect For

• Children aged 5 and above
• Young readers developing independent reading skills
• Parents looking for engaging read-aloud books
• Teachers and school libraries
• Children's collections exploring identity, family, and diversity
• Readers interested in Indian children's literature and stories set in India

Why You’ll Love This Book

My Name Is Khadija combines a simple, engaging story with themes that can encourage thoughtful conversations between children and adults. Khadija's determination to address something important to her gives young readers an accessible way to think about individuality, family, and how we understand ourselves.

With Mariyam Fatima's storytelling and Isha Nagar's illustrations, this Hook Books title offers a warm reading experience for children who are moving from picture books towards longer, more independent reading.