Week Five: I am Malala
- If you could describe this book in one word what would that be?
Unimaginable.
Being taken on Malala’s journey, told by Malala herself was powerful and such a privellege. However, while I had all the emotions, I can’t even imagine what living her life would be like. I’m so thankful for habving the opportunity to read this book. At 21 years old I can’t even fathom how I would handle the situations discussed in the book, let alone 15.
2. What does this book reveal about Islam, women, girls and education?
Honestly, this book opened my eyes to a lot on information on Islam and what it’s like being a female. I assumed that the Muslim religion didn’t support women. However, I learned that women have not only been involved, but have been leaders in Swat history. The book also revealed how the fathers of girls felt about their desire to go to school. However, that didn’t stop the girls from going to school, risking their lives. I had no idea who Fazlullah was. He hosted a radio show and praised girls for not going to school, to convince young girls not to show up.
3. What elements of chance are crucial to her story?
I think Malala being in the family that she is in was chance. I can’t imagine her story if she didn’t have her family, especially her father, supporting her. It is extremely rare that a father who is Pakistani respects, listens, and encourages his daughter. I also think Malala’s father’s dream of opening a school for girls could also be a factor of chance. She had a dream to learn, and the opportunity was available to her.
4. Unesco estimates over 160 million girls worldwide are not educated due to refugee status, war relocation, poverty and gender preference. What would the world look like if all girls were educated? What do you think would change?
I think there would be more understanding. I remember during the 2016 election people were saying we shouldn’t have a female president because she would be “too sensitive.” Why is that a bad thing? What would a world look like with girls who are educated AND in touch with their emotions? I think the world as a whole would be more empathetic and learn to listen, which would result in more peace.
5. What is your favorite quote from the book? Please explain why.
“Let us pick up our books and our pens, they are the most powerful weapons.”
I grew up with my mother saying “knowledge is power.” I think there is power in knowledge and knowing in silence. In terms of the book, the act of rebellion was picking up books and pens. I think what sticks out to me the most about this quote is the word “pens.” People can read a book and not question it, assuming it’s law. However, the word pen makes me think of criticizing, analyzing, and challenging the book/lessons.
6. What positive global messages does this book provide, and why does it continue to be relevant?
The book demonstrated to me that no one is too small to make a change. Society makes people, especially women, feel small. Whether it’s their age, race, how they’re dressed, where they come from, etc. Malala suffered and fought, and yet she persevered. Her perseverance led to a massive change in the world. No one is ever “too” anything, to make a shift in the world.