When Nadia Khan talks about writing for children, her voice fills with both warmth and purpose. The Zoey Wonders Why author didn’t set out to write award-winning children’s books — but after years of dreaming about it, she decided it was time.

“I always loved writing,” Nadia says. “Even as a little girl, I’d write poetry and short stories. But life got busy, and it took me years to finally say, ‘You know what? I’m going to do this.’”

Her first book, Zoey Wonders Why, helped children explore their own heritage and learn empathy through curiosity and kindness. Her newest book, Zoey Wonders Why and the Great Catastrophe, takes that mission even further — teaching kids about resilience, self-respect, and the beauty of differences.

Representation That Reflects Every Child

Nadia believes every child deserves to see themselves in stories. “A lot of kids don’t know where their parents or grandparents are from,” she says. “I wanted to create books that help them connect with that — and with others. Most of us make the same foods; we just make them differently. That’s what makes our world beautiful.”

Her stories celebrate shared humanity through humor, heart, and cultural connection — all while offering practical lessons for kids navigating today’s pressures.

Overcoming Self-Doubt Through Purpose

Like many authors, Nadia struggled with imposter syndrome. “Sometimes you look at other authors and think, ‘Am I even good enough?’” she admits. “But my mission was bigger than my fear.”

That mission — teaching respect, empathy, and resilience — was inspired by her four sons, especially her older boys, both tweens. “That 10-to-12 age group is so delicate,” she says. “If you keep promoting positivity, they’ll believe in themselves. I wanted my books to do that — to tell kids it’s okay to fail, to get back up, and to try again.”

Learning the Craft and the Community

Nadia self-published her books, first through Self-Publishing School and later with support from the Women in Publishing Summit community. “That group has been a lifeline,” she says. “There’s no competition — just women helping women.”

She also learned the value of professional editing. “Get a proofreader. It’s worth it. If your message is strong but your grammar is off, readers might miss the message entirely.”

Encouragement for Writers on the Fence

Nadia’s message to aspiring authors is simple: Don’t give up.

“Life happens,” she says. “You might not be able to write every day, but write when you can. Even if it’s one sentence, even if it’s a voice note. Don’t let anyone tell you it’s not worth it.”

Her next book tackles the topic of body shaming — from within families — written for ages 12–16. “I want to talk about the things I wish had been talked about when I was a kid,” she says. “If my stories can help even one child feel seen, it’s all worth it.