Huda Fahmy: A Conversation about Huda F Cares? [S7 EP. 268]

huda-fahmy-huda-f-cares

Listen to the full episode below:

We’ve been hoping to talk with Huda Fahmy for a long time, and I’m so glad we finally made it happen! Her graphic novels are funny, heartfelt, and incredibly powerful in the classroom—and in this conversation, we dig into why. From representation and identity to humor and student voice, Huda’s work shows us just how impactful stories can be when students feel truly seen.

In this episode, Huda shares her journey from English teacher to published author, and how a few stick-figure comics posted online turned into a celebrated graphic novel series. We talk about the power of writing through lived experience, the importance of letting students explore identity on their own terms, and how humor can break down walls in even the most serious conversations. Her books are deeply personal, but their themes—family, faith, self-discovery, grief—resonate with students from all backgrounds.

And of course, we had to talk about perfectionism. Huda’s message to young writers (and to us teachers) is one we all need: let go of the pressure to get it “right” and just start. Her honesty, warmth, and wit are such a gift, not just on the page, but in this conversation too. If you’re looking for stories that connect, that open doors, and that remind students their voices matter, you’re going to love this episode!

topics discussed:

  • Huda Fahmy’s journey from English teacher to acclaimed graphic novelist

  • An overview of the "Huda F" graphic novel series

  • Important themes found in Huda’s books and possible questions that can be taught alongside them

  • The importance of humor as both a tool for self-expression and protection, and its unique role in connecting with students and tackling heavy topics

  • How Huda’s books serve as both mirrors and windows for students—offering representation and fostering empathy regardless of readers’ backgrounds

  • Addressing the debate around the value of empathy and storytelling in education

  • Advice for aspiring young writers and their teachers

resources:

Meet huda:

Huda Fahmy is a critically acclaimed Author/Illustrator. She grew up in Dearborn, Michigan and has loved comics since she was a kid. Huda taught English for eight years before she started writing about her experiences as a visibly Muslim woman in America. She is a National Book Award finalist for her YA graphic novel Huda F Cares?.  Huda and her family reside in Texas.

Connect with huda:

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Join hosts Amanda Cardenas (Mud & Ink Teaching) and Marie Morris (The Caffeinated Classroom) in discussions about being brave, trying new things, and all things teaching! As seasoned classroom teachers, Amanda and Marie bring their experience, insight, energy, and oh, so many opinions and ideas... It's time for all teachers to take their classroom and teaching practice into their own hands!

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