How to Read Adiba Jaigirdar's Books
Adiba Jaigirdar has quickly established herself as a leading voice in young adult contemporary fiction, celebrated for her rich depiction of Bangladeshi-Irish culture, queer romance, and Muslim identity. If you are wondering where to begin or how the books connect, the most important thing to know is that all of her current novels are standalones. There are no continuous series, shared universes, or complex chronologies that you have to navigate.
Because each book tells a completely self-contained story, you can read them in whatever order catches your interest. However, if you want a guided path, starting in publication order is a fantastic way to see her growth as a writer and experience the stories as they took the YA world by storm.
Where to Start: The Best Entry Points
- The Henna Wars (2020): Her celebrated debut novel is the absolute best place to start. It follows Nishat, a Bangladeshi-Irish lesbian in Dublin navigating cultural appropriation, a business rivalry, and falling for her childhood friend. It is a perfect introduction to Jaigirdar's signature blend of heavy themes, cultural authenticity, and sweet romance.
- Hani and Ishu's Guide to Fake Dating (2021): If you love classic rom-com tropes, this book is a massive fan favorite. It uses the fake-dating setup to explore popularity, academic pressure, and bisexual representation, winning the prestigious YA Book Prize.
Adiba Jaigirdar Books in Publication Order
For readers who prefer to experience an author's bibliography in the order the books were presented to the world, here is the complete chronological list of her novels:
- The Henna Wars (2020) – Nishat's secret henna business sparks a rivalry and romance with Flávia, highlighting themes of cultural heritage and coming out.
- Hani and Ishu's Guide to Fake Dating (2021) – Hani and Ishu strike a deal to fake-date for their own social and academic goals, only to find real feelings developing.
- A Million to One (2022) – A thrilling historical heist novel following four marginalized girls who team up to steal a luxury copy of the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam aboard the Titanic.
- The Dos and Donuts of Love (2023) – A fun, baking-show-themed contemporary romance following Shireen as she competes in a televised competition alongside both her ex-girlfriend and a new crush.
- Four Eids and a Funeral (2024) – A collaborative young adult novel co-written with author Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé, following ex-best friends Tiwa and Said trying to save their town's Islamic Center.
- Rani Choudhury Must Die (2024) – A high-stakes rivals-to-allies contemporary YA novel centering on Meghna and Rani as they coordinate to expose a cheating boyfriend.
Short Stories, Anthologies, and Contributions
In addition to her full-length novels, Adiba Jaigirdar has contributed to various collections and anthologies:
- Momentum (2018): This young adult anthology, edited by Gabriela Martins, features Jaigirdar's early short story titled "Aeroplane Girl."
- Writing in Color: Fourteen Writers on the Lessons We've Learned (2023): A non-fiction anthology edited by Nafiza Azad and Melody Simpson. Jaigirdar is one of fourteen writers of color contributing personal essays about writing craft, publishing, and representation.
What to Know Before You Start
While most of Jaigirdar's books are contemporary romantic comedies, they do not shy away from real-world issues. Readers should expect thoughtful discussions around racism, homophobia, islamophobia, family expectations, and the pressure of balancing multiple cultural identities.
If you prefer historical fiction or thriller elements over pure contemporary romance, A Million to One is her primary departure from modern settings. Set aboard the Titanic, it offers a heist-like pacing with high stakes, though it maintains her focus on marginalized identities and romantic tension.