Each month Abington Library will feature a favorite book from a faculty, staff member, or student. They will give a brief synopsis of their chosen book. Here is the November 2014 entry.
Eddie Supratman is an Instructor of World History and Comparative Religion on the ASU-Beebe campus.
I Am Malala
By Malala Yousafzai with Christina Lamb
Have you ever doubted whether a single person like you can impact the world? Many of us have no problem dreaming, but we never allow our dreams to drive our actions. I Am Malala is a daring memoir of Malala Yousafzai, a 17 year-old girl with a big story and bigger dreams. She is a girl from Pakistan who has always loved to read, write, and learn. At an early age, this young activist fought for girls’ education rights in Pakistan. Malala’s tireless battle for the important principles of liberty and democracy has made her the prime target for radical extremists and terrorist groups.
“Who is Malala?” was the life and death question asked on October 9, 2012 when several gunmen boarded a school bus in an attempt to assassinate Malala. She was shot in the head; one bullet passed through her forehead and barely missed her brain. Surviving through a remarkable surgery, she is able to have a stronger voice, inspiring millions with her story of courage, passion, and dedication to education. I Am Malala is a story of a brave girl in a dangerous country, and it reveals her persistence to make the world she lives in a better place. In 2014, Malala received the Nobel Peace Prize for her struggle against the suppression of children and young people for the rights of all to education.
So, next time when you start doubting the power of your own voice to tremendously impact the life of others, think about Malala. Each one of us has something unique and wonderful to offer the world. What are your dreams? Let’s live up the dream instead of doubting. Let’s dream big, and dare to take action.
