Picture a storyteller weaving tales that dance between the vibrant streets of Mumbai, the deserts of Saudi Arabia, and the snowy suburbs of Canada—meet Tanaz Bhathena! This award-winning young adult author captures the messy, beautiful chaos of teen life with a multicultural lens, crafting stories that resonate with readers worldwide. From her bold debut to her epic fantasies, Bhathena’s work is a celebration of identity, resilience, and the courage to defy expectations.
Born in Mumbai and raised across continents, Bhathena’s unique perspective shapes her narratives, making her a standout voice in contemporary and fantasy YA fiction. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the journey of this Zoroastrian storyteller whose books are as diverse as her life.
The Making of Tanaz Bhathena
Tanaz Bhathena was born in Mumbai, India, and moved to Saudi Arabia as a toddler, spending her formative years in Jeddah and Riyadh. At 16, her family relocated to Mississauga, Ontario, where she faced the culture shock of a new country—a theme that echoes in her work. A lover of stories from childhood, Bhathena knew by 13 that she wanted to be a writer. After earning a Bachelor of Commerce and working as a teaching assistant, she pursued creative writing, channeling her experiences into powerful narratives. Her multicultural upbringing and Zoroastrian heritage infuse her stories with authenticity and depth.
Tanaz Bhathena’s Unforgettable Stories
Bhathena burst onto the YA scene with her 2018 debut, A Girl Like That, a gripping contemporary novel set in Saudi Arabia. The story of Zarin Wadia, a teen navigating love, abuse, and societal judgment, earned accolades from The Globe and Mail, Seventeen, and The Times of India for its raw honesty and feminist perspective. Bhathena’s unflinching exploration of race, class, and religion struck a chord, making it a must-read for teens and adults alike.
In 2019, she switched gears with The Beauty of the Moment, a heartfelt romance about Susan, an Indian teen adjusting to life in Canada, and Malcolm, a troubled Parsi boy. Winning the Nautilus Gold Award, this novel shines for its tender portrayal of love and identity amidst family pressures. Bhathena then ventured into fantasy with Hunted by the Sky (2020), the first in her Wrath of Ambar duology. Inspired by medieval India, this tale of Gul, a magical warrior seeking revenge, won the White Pine Award and Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize. Its sequel, Rising Like a Storm (2021), and standalone Of Light and Shadow (2023) cement Bhathena’s knack for blending myth, magic, and high-stakes romance.
Her writing style is vivid and immersive, weaving multicultural influences—Hindu and Zoroastrian mythology, Persian and Indian cultures—into stories that feel both universal and deeply personal. Bhathena tackles heavy themes like societal expectations and self-discovery with a light touch, making her books accessible yet profound.
Why Tanaz Bhathena Matters
Tanaz Bhathena’s impact lies in her ability to give voice to underrepresented teens, particularly those navigating multicultural identities. Her stories challenge stereotypes, offering nuanced portrayals of South Asian and Middle Eastern experiences. By blending contemporary and fantasy genres, she appeals to a broad audience, inspiring readers to embrace their own complexities. Awards like the White Pine and Nautilus Gold highlight her literary prowess, while her global perspective enriches the YA landscape, making her a vital voice for today’s youth.
- Born: Mumbai, India
- Key Works: A Girl Like That, The Beauty of the Moment, Hunted by the Sky, Rising Like a Storm, Of Light and Shadow
- Awards: Nautilus Gold Award, White Pine Award, Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize
- Fun Fact: Bhathena’s short stories have appeared in publications like The Hindu and Blackbird.
Snag A Girl Like That or Hunted by the Sky and dive into Tanaz Bhathena’s vibrant, heartfelt worlds! Whether you’re craving a poignant romance or a magical adventure, her stories will leave you inspired and craving more.