Karen Leggett Abouraya

Although I didn't know who Malala was when I chose this book, I remembered hearing about her on the news as I read through. It was more emotional for me reading her story and the illustrations than hearing it on television. Malala is a Muslim girl from northern Pakistan. Her family and she were in the middle of a war between the Pakistan government and the Taliban. The Taliban forced strict rules upon the people where Malala lived. One rule is that girls and women should stay mostly at home and not receive an education. However, Malala was a bright young girl and she believed that all children have the right to an education. After the war, Malala and her family returned home. While on a school bus, the Taliban shot Malala on the side of her head. Thankfully, she recovered, now stronger than ever. She spoke up for children around the world. "One child, one teacher, one pen, and one book can change the world." This biography is significant to our world. With the Malala fund, many girls are provided education. For children and families who are not affected, this book provides knowledge of what is happening in other countries. The author has included a page of sources that were used in writing the book. I like that the author provides background information about the countries involved and photographs of Malala. She also includes the projects Malala has been involved in to give children better opportunities.… (mere)