I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
To say this was an inspirational story, simply does not do this book justice. Although it is written from the point of view of a teenager, it conveys the true feelings and emotions that people of Pakistan feel on a daily basis. The story of Malala demonstrates the horrors of war and the casualties of constant political upheaval as it affects normal, everyday people.
This story made me grateful. Grateful that I grew up in a country that not only “allows” education for women, but provides it as well. I am grateful that I had a father, just like Malala, that saw value in a woman graduating from high school, college and other higher learning. I am grateful that I live in a society that values life more than their strict religious edicts.
This story taught me the importance of your family. Malala was encouraged to attend school in a society that does not value it. Malala was encouraged to be vocal in her beliefs, even though they were contrary to their society. Malala was encouraged to stand up for herself and against the changing beliefs, just like her father. Malala was encouraged to stand by her father and speak out against injustices. Without the guidance and support of her parents, Malala would not have been the outspoken young woman that she was at the time of her shooting, nor would she be the person she has become afterward.
The plight of other nations, and the women who live there, can be shocking! This book was a reminder that we should not take our freedoms for granted. Simply going to school or speaking your mind is a punishable offense in some cultures. We should be grateful for the opportunities we have in our society. And, we should appreciate these “luxuries”, as others do not have them.
Malala talks about her belief that she has a “second chance” at life after her shooting. She has every reason to be frightened and to run away, but instead of being frightened and going into hiding, she has new resolve to finish school and save her beloved Pakistan.
Could Malala’s family have protected her more?
Should Malala’s family have allowed her to have a public voice or should they have kept her pseudonym?
Did you think that Malala’s father was to blame for her shooting?
As a parent, would you encourage your child to speak their mind and go against society? To what end?
How did this story make you feel about women’s rights and education?
Do you feel that Pakistan will be able to overcome the Taliban’s rule?
Why do you think the Pakistani army leaders were so intent on saving Malala’s life?
Do you think Malala and her family will ever be able to return to Swat?
Do you think that Malala deserved the Nobel Peace Prize? What will she be able to accomplish with it?
Will Malala be the next Benazir Bhutto?
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