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Smiling Shelves

Nonfiction November - My Thoughts on I Am Malala

11/25/2015

3 Comments

 
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This week's discussion is hosted by Katie at Doing Dewey.
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I Am Malala has been on my radar for quite awhile, but I honestly wasn't planning to read it for Nonfiction November. I had my books all planned out so that I could finish up some of my reading challenges. Then I discovered that I Am Malala actually fulfilled spots in two different reading challenges, and would end up saving me a book. So with that thought in mind, I decided to give I Am Malala a try.

And oh, my goodness, I am so glad I did. This book was fascinating and terrifying and inspiring, all at once. I knew next to nothing about Pakistan. Have you looked up pictures of the Swat Valley? It is unbelievably beautiful. I can understand why she wants to go back. Learning the background of the Taliban was also interesting. One man with a radio station - pure propaganda can be a more dangerous weapon than any gun.

I read this book the weekend of the attacks in Paris and other places around the world. It could not have been a more timely read. Knowing Malala's story has also provided an interesting perspective on the Syrian refugee crisis. Those refugees are just like Malala and her family - driven from the area they love through the evil and violence of others. What are they supposed to do?

Malala is incredibly brave. I can't imagine having to be afraid for your life or your family's lives almost constantly. And she never backed down. She never let fear rule her life or change her opinion. We need a lot more people like her in the world.

Sometimes a book comes just when you need it. That was true for me and I Am Malala. I'm so glad Nonfiction November gave me the push to read this book at this time. Words are important. Books are important. Education is important - for everyone, everywhere.

3 Comments
Emily link
11/27/2015 10:21:26 am

I loved this book so much! I'm so glad that you had a chance to read it for Nonfiction November, it's so powerful and inspiring. She's amazing, isn't she? I love seeing her interviewed - she's such an inspirational and positive young woman, and her story is incredible.

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Julie @ Smiling Shelves link
11/29/2015 04:11:03 pm

Powerful is definitely the right word for this book. I can't wait to see what other amazing things Malala will do with her life!

Reply
Katie @ Doing Dewey link
12/22/2015 04:57:13 pm

I'm glad you ended up joining us too! It's always fun when you're able to make your books work perfectly for your reading challenges. I appreciate you pointing out the connection to recent events. I'm really glad I read it for that reason!

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    My name is Julie, and I own a lot of books. As in, they are stacked on the floor because I've run out of room on the shelves. And those shelves? There are so many books on them that they smile -- not sag; smile. This blog will cover book reviews and all manner of other bookish things.

    You can contact me at julie@smilingshelves.com.

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