EDRL 524 Blog Post: Katie Vanko Favorite Memoir- I Am Malala

EDRL 524 Fall 2014 - Read This Memoir!  By:  Katie Vanko 

I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban

“Let us pick up our books and our pens,” I said. “They are our most powerful weapons. One child, one teacher, one book and one pen can change the world.” 

― Malala Yousafzai, I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban

Imagine being unable to have access to an education, the doors to achieving your dream job closed in your face…  Consider what it would be like to denied books, pencils, and the right to speak your mind.  This was reality for Malala Yousafazi.  When the Taliban took control of her homeland in the Swat Valley of Pakistan, they banned girls from attending school.  Not only did they outlaw education for girls, but they instilled fear in the citizens of the Swat Valley.  Malala was not thwarted by the threats of the Taliban, and advocated for the education of young girls.  In her book, I am Malala, she describes day to day life in this part of Pakistan.  Readers learn about the history of the Pakistan, as well as cultural traditions, and gender roles.  

When Malala was just eleven years old, she started writing a blog for the BBC about the injustices that she and other girls faced.  Her words were read around the globe, and they resonated in the hearts/minds of many.  A documentary was done about Malala during a time of horrendous fighting in the Swat Valley.  She gained global recognition for her message of equality in education, but her family knew that her safety could be jeopardized.  The memoir takes readers through her experiences writing the blog, and shows the daily struggles she endured just to attend school.  Schools in her neighborhood were run by her father, and they were  constantly bombed or vandalized.  The Taliban did all it could to deter women from attending school.  

Malala was later shot in 2012 on a bus.  She was shot by Taliban members for her active role in speaking up for the right to be educated.  Never does she stop fighting for her life or what she believes in.  This still rings true as she accepts the Nobel Peace Prize!  The intention of her memoir is to inspire readers to dream, act, and believe.  Young adult readers and adults should absolutely read about Malala’s incredible life.  She evokes emotions in her readers, speaking to them like they are family or friends.  She has a serious tone to her writing, but is also unafraid to tell humorous side stories that reveal her childlike self.  The beautifully photographed cover and backside show readers exactly who Malala is, so they may visualize her while reading.   The beginning of the novel is very historical, setting the context for Malala’s life and obstacles.  This may be the only place that is harder for younger readers to get through.  The explanations of cultural traditions and religious beliefs can be slightly convoluted.  With the help of classmates and teachers, young people could engage in rich conversations about Malala’s achievements.

Because of this, a young reader’s edition was just released.  Here is the link to this version:  

https://www.juniorlibraryguild.com/books/view.dT/9780316327930

Malala’s passion for education and serving as a role model for young girls is remarkable.  Readers will be inspired and motivated while reading her words.  She is truly a hero and global icon.