A Nelson teenager who published her first book at the age of 16 has released her second title, combining faith and journaling to help readers on their own journey of self-development.
Eighteen-year-old Khadija Naseer has launched Steps to Serenity: The Serenity Journal, which she completed while studying for her A-levels.
The new book builds on the themes explored in her first publication, Steps to Serenity, but takes a different approach by blending the guidance of a self-development book with the interactive elements of a journal.
Khadija said: “I have recently published my second book, Steps to Serenity: The Serenity Journal. While my first book focused on exploring the journey towards inner peace and personal growth, this new release takes a unique approach.
“Rather than creating a journal alone, I wanted to combine the guidance and insight of a book with the practicality of a journal, allowing reflection and action to exist side by side.
“My aim was to create something that readers could not only learn from, but actively engage with as they navigate their own journeys.”
Unlike traditional journals, Khadija said her latest book encourages readers to reflect deeply rather than simply complete daily exercises.
She said: “This journal is different. It isn’t structured or split into to-do lists. I begin the book with reflection topics covering achieving the steps to serenity, from where trust meets mercy to how small things beautifully repeat.
“I then give readers plenty of space to write and develop on their journey.
“Journaling is often romanticised. It is presented as a perfectly curated habit filled with beautiful handwriting, aesthetic pages and effortless consistency.
“In reality, journaling can be challenging. This book isn’t about creating perfection or filling pages for the sake of it. It’s about becoming the best version of ourselves.”
Among the journal prompts, readers are encouraged to choose a Qur’anic verse, explore its meaning and reflect on how it can be applied in their own lives.
Khadija said completing the book alongside her studies required determination but was made possible by the support of those around her.
She said: “As an 18-year-old author who published her first book at just 16, this project has been especially meaningful. Completing the book whilst studying for my A-levels was a challenge in itself, requiring discipline, perseverance and many late nights.
“However, the encouragement and positive feedback from readers and the wider community have made the journey more than worthwhile.”
Since publishing her first book, Khadija has received support from the community and has also featured on local radio.
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Looking ahead, she hopes to continue writing while also building an online community for women.
She said: “I’m currently working on creating a community. I’ve created a WhatsApp community where we can do all things sisterhood, from advice and reflections to everything sisterhood.”
She added: “I’d like to thank my parents, family and friends especially. I’m nothing without them. My parents’ love and support have meant everything.
“Nothing beats the feeling of doing this with my loved ones cheering me on.”
Steps to Serenity: The Serenity Journal is available to purchase via direct message on Khadija’s Instagram page, @stepstoserenity_, and through Amazon.
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