Zenia Wadhwani lives in Toronto. She holds a BA from the University of Toronto, a BSW from York University and an MSW from McGill University. Some of her writings have been published in anthologies including Bolo! Bolo! and Desilicious.
Fiction (Juvenile, Picture book)
Fly in the Chai
Illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat.
Toronto: Tundra Books, 2026.
Forthcoming March 2026.
Publisher’s Synopsis (From its website)
On a trip to the market, Nanu gets a cup of chai. But before he can take a drink, his granddaughter stops him just in time.
STOP! There’s a FLY in that chai!
Thus begins an epic battle between Nanu and the fly: who loves chai more??
This hilarious story will have readers on the edge of their seats and the dynamic illustrations will take them on a journey through a busy market they won’t soon forget!
Fiction (Juvenile, Picture book)
Once Upon a Sari
Illustrated by Avani Dwivedi.
Toronto: Tundra Books, 2024.
PZ7.1.W26 O63 2024
Publisher’s Synopsis (From its website)
Avani is having a wonderful time looking at all of her mother’s saris, but she soon realizes she’s made a big mess.
When her mom comes in, Avani expects a scolding, but instead, her mom sits down with her and tells her about the memories associated with each sari: memories of weddings and celebrations, memories of when and where the sari came from. And, in case of one very special sari, memories that were passed down from her parents and grandparents.
Fiction (Juvenile, Picture book)
‘Twas the Night Before Diwali
Illustrated by Manon Lariviere.
Independently published, 2020.
Synopsis
On the eve of Diwali, the jalebis, chum chums and gulab jamuns are piled high! But who is the surprise guest that shows up? And where, oh where, are the mithai? Enjoy this South Asian rendition of a familiar holiday poem and the introduction of a new character to the much celebrated festival of lights, Diwali.
Links
Zenia Wadhwani personal website
Publisher Tundra Books an imprint of Penguin Random House Canada