Appropriateness?

[Krys]

I'm just wondering. After I read this book, I think it'd be a great addition to a library. But I'm just wondering what would be a proper age/grade appropriateness for this book. Is it too graphic, or obscene, or explicit?
Would jr. high students read a book like this?

[Carolyn]

I am reading it aloud to my 10 (almost 11 year old). She is a strong reader but does not read much non-fiction, which is what prompted me to read it aloud. I think it's an excellent memoir for young students to see the importance and gift of education, especially as we have it here in the US. While the language & cultural differences may pose a problem for some readers, I think they would plow through if the interest is there to continue reading. I say add it to the library!

[Christine]

I am working in a JH library, have read the book and I plan on adding it. I think that some students will have a hard time with some of the explanations of politics in Pakistan. But I have no other concerns for content whatsoever. I had it on display in the library on my "The library is Reading..." dragon book holder and at least a half dozen students asked to read it. Non-fiction they want to read!

[Marilyn]

Hi, I think it would be a very good book to add to your library for mature 12 year olds and above. This gives a very good description of what life is like in Pakistan; what and how the Taliban got started; some of the politics/news stories we have gotten glimpses of without much depth. If you could manage it, a class reading this together would be a great project. I can think of dozens of topics that can be discussed in a group setting. Marilyn

[Erika]

I would say grade 5 and up.

[Frances]

I have just bought this for my 10yr old grand-daughter. So pleased to read the feedback as to it's age suitability.

[Andrew]

I think it'd be a great addition for grade 6 and up. Recommend it along with the Diary of Anne Frank.

[Thera]

I feel that we shouldn't limit children reading. I allow my children to read just about anything, except porn. I want them to challenge themselves to read harder books each time, or they'll never improve.
But, those are just my personal feelings on the matter.

[Nathalie]

It should be fine for middle/junior students that are good/advanced readers and mature for their age. There is a lot in it about the political landscape in Pakistan and the different factions (taliban, military, etc.).

There is also a junior version of this book adapted by young adult author Patricia McCormick.

Here is a list of food, books, and movies mentioned in I am Malala (to jazz up your book clubs!). http://www.bookmenus.co/2016/04/i-am-...

[Emily]

I wouldn't say it's too graphic or explicit, just maybe a little long for middle school readers. The young reader version may be better for them--I think they may have just condensed it a bit. I used excerpts from this book with my fifth graders in an after school program. They loved it. One of the boys even wanted to get the book from the library.