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Note: This section may include reviews for related titles (e.g., same author, series, or related edition).

From Kirkus

November 1, 2023
An inspirational look at a young girl's path to activism. The third book in the You Are a Star series features Malala Yousafzai, the well-known activist for girls' education. Using a first-person narrative, the book highlights aspects of her life in her hometown of Mingora, in the Swat Valley region of Pakistan. Malala's fondness for books and learning and the spirit of inquiry encouraged by her parents all grow into a passionate belief for the right to education, equality, and freedom for all. When the Taliban take over her town with their strict diktats about girls not going to school, Malala opposes their ideas through her writings and media interviews. While her budding activism grew, so did the threats from the Taliban, until one day she and her friends were violently attacked. As the world rallied around the brave young girl, Malala strengthened her resolve to fight for girls' education "everywhere children [need] help." Using brightly illustrated comic-style panels that depict her home life and relationships with her family and friends, the book is a straightforward account of Malala's budding activism and commendable achievements. Though none of the information feels new in the crowded landscape of books on Malala, it does showcase her determination and steadfastness in the face of immense odds. A rousing biography that examines its subject's motivations to serve others. (author's note, notes about Malala, timeline, glossary, resources) (Picture-book biography. 5-8)

COPYRIGHT(2023) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

From School Library Journal

June 1, 2023

PreS-K-Kaiser, working with the brevity of the board book format, wastes little time in setting the stage for this modern hero's story. "Malala grew up in the lovely Swat Valley in Pakistan. Her home was always busy with family and neighbors-the women cooking together, the men reciting poetry, and the kids playing outside. Malala often joined the men, and loved listening to her father read." Rodil's illustrations do not attempt a literal interpretation of the country, but in broad swaths provide onlookers with Yousafzai's garb and surroundings, her delight in the classroom, and her sorrow that the one thing she wished for adulthood-to live freely, as men did-was impossible. This information is in the third spread of the book. The changes in her country when the Taliban came to power are described in a vague way, the specifics left for an author's note. In all, the book provides quick, dense strokes to outline this young woman's life, which is really all a board book can do. VERDICT An impressive collection of data, smoothly told, with colorful artwork, just right for kindergartners.-Kimberly Olson Fakih

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From School Library Journal

April 1, 2023

Gr 6 Up-The lives of two famous contemporary proponents of education are presented in these volumes. In Malala Yousafzai, readers learns about her struggles to achieve an education in her Taliban-influenced homeland of Pakistan. She was the victim of an assassination attempt and is a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate. Today she runs the Malala Fund in order to raise money for female education. Sal Khan is an MIT graduate who was inspired to create math instructional videos to help his cousin. Eventually, with financial assistance from Google and Bill Gates, he created the Khan Academy, which currently has more than 100 million users. Both volumes neatly trace the lives of the subjects from date and place of birth to present-day activities. The primary focus is on their respective vocations: Yousafzai promotes female education while Khan endeavors to teach better mathematical skills through his nonprofit academy. Both books are fact-filled and the direct prose, accompanied by photographs, make them easy reads. Thus, they are suitable biographies for the targeted readers. However, selectors will need to keep in mind that as the subjects are living people with much of their professional lives still ahead of them (Yousafzai is only 25) these volumes will quickly date. Also, there are already many volumes on Yousafzai, several of which already populate library shelves. Of the two, the one on Khan may be the more useful, as there is little out there and his contribution to education is significant. VERDICT These informative biographies are quite serviceable and selection should be based on the need of the collection.

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From School Library Journal

January 1, 2023

Gr 1-4-Chelsea Clinton's introduction-which she reads with inspiring encouragement-explains how she "partner[ed] with a sisterhood of writers to bring longer, more in-depth versions" of the women's stories featured in her bestselling "She Persisted" picture book series: "They persisted and so should you." The resulting chapter books have remarkable pairings, here featuring award-winning, bestselling Pakistani American Saeed who celebrates youngest Nobel Prize winner (at 17) Malala Yousafzai. Indian American Gupta reads solemnly, gently, revealing Yousafzai's unwavering tenacity fighting for education while growing up in Pakistan, her vicious attack by the Taliban, her miraculous recovery in the UK, and her internationally acclaimed advocacy for girls' and women's rights. Saeed appends six practical, achievable ways "you can make a difference in your community and persist like Malala." VERDICT Accessible and empowering, all libraries should consider investing in the entire "She Persisted" series in every format.

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From School Library Journal

July 8, 2022

Gr 1-4-Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai loves learning and is an inspirational advocate for universal education. This book focuses on her passion for knowledge and her risky support for women's rights during a dangerous time in Pakistan's history. As the young daughter of an educator, she was distressed when the Taliban closed down all the girls' schools, forbidding music, television, and dancing. These restrictions eventually relaxed, but it was still dangerous for girls to get an education. Yousafzai refused to be discouraged. Through a series of circumstances, she became an impressive advocate for women's rights, writing articles that were published in newspapers, and appeared on television. Along with international acclaim came an assassination attempt that almost ended her life. Recovering fully, she resumed her education in England, graduated from Oxford, and continues working to make the world a better place. Saeed addresses religion, politics, and social commentary in a developmentally appropriate way. The hostilities and violence perpetrated by the Taliban are referenced mainly as they pertain to Yousafzai personally and how they impacted women's education as a whole. Flint's black-and-white interior illustrations allow readers to make cultural connections. Included are a table of contents, references, and an appended section listing six things readers can do to emulate Yousafzai's advocacy for educational reform. VERDICT This early chapter book is a good addition to biography collections with a focus on young people who have changed the world through their advocacy.-Lynne Stover

Copyright 2022 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From Kirkus

June 15, 2022
This latest in the She Persisted series explores the life of Malala Yousafzai, the fierce teenage activist from Pakistan who advocated for the right to an education. This nonfiction chapter book opens with Yousafzai's birth in Pakistan's verdant Swat Valley. Readers learn that Yousafzai's father named her after legendary Afghan poet Malalai of Maiwand. Inherently curious, she was a bright student, encouraged by her schoolteacher father. When the Taliban started closing, and then blowing up, schools, 11-year-old Yousafzai was forced to give up her education temporarily. But she refused to let that defeat her and began to write and talk about what was happening--a move that brought her into the Taliban's crosshairs; when she was 15, two men shot her in the head. Yousafzai recovered from her injury and refused to let the attempt on her life deter her, becoming an inspiration to the world, a staunch defendant of the right to education. The book brings together major events in Yousafzai's life yet also offers readers a deeper understanding about larger issues such as the right to education, which has often been denied to girls and women, and the power of advocacy. It also offers a comprehensible yet nuanced consideration of Islam ("But Malala was also Muslim, and she knew what they were doing was not acceptable in her religion"). Final illustrations not seen. A compelling story that's empowering and inspirational. ("how you can persist," references) (Illustrated chapter book. 7-10)

COPYRIGHT(2022) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

From School Library Journal

February 1, 2022

K-Gr 2This first-person biography presents Pakistani activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai from the time she was a young girl to more recent times. In the chatty early pages, Malala describes her favorite color and foods, is shown arm-wrestling with her brother, and talks about games she plays with her friends. The narrative then abruptly changes to a street scene in which the unfair treatment of girls and women is briefly explained. Following pages depict Malala's education at her father's school-later shut down by the Taliban-the horrific attack that left her with a devastating facial wound; her subsequent recovery and determination fueled her message of empowerment for the world. Though the events in the book are presented in chronological order, there is a disjointed quality to the text which may prove confusing to younger readers. Several pages at the end, for example, are less biographical than a call to power: "The world doesn't change unless you speak up. Use your voice. Help those who need it." Despite the current appeal of graphic novels to young readers, the illustrations in this book seem oversimplified, with very limited facial expressions. Back matter includes a time line and photographs. VERDICT An additional purchase for libraries that don't already have one of the numerous excellent biographies on this Malala.-Sue Morgan

Copyright 2022 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From Publisher's Weekly

September 6, 2021
In six accessible chapters, Day (who is Upper Skagit), deftly parallels the struggles of the Osage Nation with those of Elizabeth Marie Tall Chief (1925—2013), one of the first American ballet stars. Born in Oklahoma to an Osage father and white mother, Maria Tall Chief faced a variety of hurdles after starting to dance at three years old, including having to learn about her heritage in secret, since Native ceremonies and gatherings were outlawed by the U.S. government until 1978. She also faced racist bullying from classmates and, as a professional dancer, was asked to make her name more sound Russian. Tallchief nevertheless rose to dance solos with the Ballet de Monte Carlos, the New York City Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre, becoming a major star with George Balanchine's Firebird and receiving prestigious recognitions. Flint contributes simple, appealing b&w ink-and-wash spot illustrations throughout this rich, clear picture of how one iconic Native dancer persisted. Back matter includes a How You Can Persist guide and references. Ages 6—9.

From School Library Journal

April 1, 2021

Gr 2-5-The lives of eight notable women are presented in these straightforward and informative biographies. Each begins with a description of a significant moment in the subject's life, e.g., Malala Yousafzai's 2013 United Nations speech and Ruth Bader Ginsburg's nomination to the Supreme Court. The authors then present the women's life stories with emphasis on accomplishments: Dolores Huerta was instrumental in forming the United Farm Workers, Greta Thunberg protested climate change with school strikes, physicist Chien-Shiung Wu discovered what happens when atoms break apart, Michelle Obama began the "Reach Higher'' initiative to encourage students to further their education. The subjects are presented in a positive light, and the information is current; included is Ginsburg's recent death and the curtailing effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on Thunberg's activities. VERDICT Though the information is up to date and sufficient to fulfill the needs of the targeted audience, selectors should consider individual titles for purchase based on demand.

Copyright 2021 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From Booklist

January 27, 2021
Grades K-3 These excellent additions to the Little People, Big Dreams series (6 new titles) follow incredible individuals who overcame challenges and embraced differences to reach their dreams and help others. Malala Yousafzai follows the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize as she begins her life in Pakistan, eager to start school. When the Taliban arrives and prohibits girls from attending school, Malala arms herself with knowledge and takes a stand. Each title contains vibrant, warm, and lively illustrations that perfectly correspond with the personality and life of the biography's subject. The books conclude with a time line featuring photographs and additional information about the featured individual. Great additions to this biographical series for young children.

COPYRIGHT(2021) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

From Publisher's Weekly

Starred review from January 11, 2021
In this chapter book series opener expanding upon Chelsea Clinton and Alexandra Boiger's She Persisted picture book series, Coretta Scott King Award winner Pinkney (The Red Pencil) presents an accessible portrait of American abolitionist, activist, nurse, and spy Harriet Tubman. In a brief introduction, Clinton explains that she "wanted all of us to see examples of persistence in the face of different challenges to help inspire us in our own lives"; Boiger provides cover art that embodies this sentiment. Pinkney then launches into how Harriet Tubman, born enslaved, persevered not only to gain her own freedom, but helped many others gain liberation through the Underground Railroad. Pinkney's six-chapter narrative spans from Tubman's birth until her later years as a spy for the Union Army, allowing readers an in-depth review of Tubman's life, while interior artist Flint delivers powerfully tender black-and-white mixed media images of Tubman's journey. With activities and resources "to honor Harriet Tubman's determination and bravery," an interactive final section titled "How You Can Persist" challenges young readers to think about how they too can persist beyond the pages of this luminous first installment. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 6—9. Agent: (for Pinkney) Rebecca Sherman, Writers House; (for Flint) James Burns, the Bright Agency.

From School Library Journal

November 1, 2020

Gr 3-6-This series spotlights women who took charge of their lives and careers. Ariana Grande began singing and raising money for charity at a young age; JoJo Siwa worked hard to become a dancer; and Kylie Jenner used social media to promote her products and become a millionaire. Additionally, Malala Yousafzai overcame an attempted assassination to advocate for women's education; Michelle Obama's motivation to succeed helped her to graduate from Princeton and Harvard; Misty Copeland broke barriers for Black women in ballet. Readers are encouraged to be their own boss. The texts feature inspirational quotes from the subjects, and the simple narratives are direct. Each woman is presented in a positive light, although the volume on Copeland references the custody battle between her mother and ballet teachers. Color photos accompany the text. Ariana Grande and Kylie Jenner will certainly appeal to young pop culture fans. VERDICT Though not very comprehensive, these are suitable introductory biographies of modern women. Purchase should be considered based on need for the subject.

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From Booklist

April 15, 2020
Grades 3-6 Each of these books from the First Names series (2 new titles) opens with a dramatic introductory episode, such as the kidnapping of 6-month-old Ada Lovelace or the shooting of 15-year-old Malala Yousafzai, then begins a chronological account of her life. The lively main text, informative sidebars, and many speech balloons within the illustrations offer insights into the individual's character, her actions, and the historical period in which she grew up. Appearing on nearly every page, including the time line and glossary, Ward's strong, expressive line drawings clarify events and emotions, while helping young readers envision a different time, place, and society. Malala Yousafzai tells of Yousafzai as child attending her father's school in Pakistan, a passionate young advocate for the education of girls, a 15-year-old who barely survived an assassination attempt, and a humanitarian speaking out for young people's rights worldwide. Even libraries well stocked with children's biographies of Ada Lovelace and Malala Yousafzai should make room for these. With inviting cover art, insightful texts, and appealing illustrations, they offer a winning combination of information and kid-appeal.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)

From School Library Journal

Starred review from March 1, 2019

Gr 3-5-The story of Malala Yousafzai is a powerful one: she is a living testament to personal strength and the value of education. The young human rights advocate is a true warrior with words, and this up-to-date biography introduces children to her story. For a generation of digital natives, a young woman who expresses herself and elicits change through a blog is both relatable and inspirational. Interspersed with quotes from Yousafzai, the text highlights the important events in her life. From the beginning of her blog until the day of the Taliban's attempt to assassinate her, and onward through her recovery and up to present day, the thread that weaves the story together is her unwavering support of the right each child has to an education. Roth's illustrations are composed of beautiful fabric-and-paper collages. There are gorgeous, bright colors throughout, but the Taliban and events involving them are depicted in muted tones of black and gray. The informational pages at the end of the book are not to be missed. Children can learn more about Pakistan, the Taliban, and The Malala Fund. There is even a section that encourages young readers to take action and provides information on how to do so. VERDICT Available in both English and Spanish, this contemporary biography is excellent for conversations about the power of words, resilience, and the ability of one person to inspire meaningful change.-Katie Darrin, Boulder Valley School District, Boulder, CO

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From Horn Book

January 1, 2019
The Pakistani activist's memoir moves from childhood to her shooting by the Taliban to being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. The message that "one child...can change the world" makes for an inspiring, upbeat read. Adapted from I Am Malala, this "first chapter book edition" features large type, short chapters, and spot illustrations. More on the Nobel Prize and a pronunciation guide are appended. Timeline. Glos.

(Copyright 2019 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

From Kirkus

November 15, 2018
This detailed picture book celebrating Malala Yousafzai shows how she has used her position in the global spotlight to advocate for children's rights.The story opens with Yousafzai's speech at the U.N. in 2013: "Our words can change the world." It then moves back in time to ask, "Where did Malala learn that her voice and words could change the world?" With a beautiful collage of green land rising to purple and white mountaintops, her upbringing in the Swat Valley of Pakistan is described as nourishing and happy, with a strong family unit. Her words from the blog the BBC began to host in 2009 appear, as do words from her later writings, to describe life under Taliban rule. The latter are pictured as rows and crowds of men in baggy shalwar kameez with scarves tied around their faces and dark holes for eyes. Her family's brief move out of Swat is included, as is her National Youth Peace Prize awarded in Pakistan, details that show both the devastation within Pakistan and her own country's appreciation of her work. The text appears on ruled notebook paper, and paper-and-fabric-collage artwork alternates between focusing on Yousafzai and crowd scenes that show her impact. The cloudy black around the eyes on some faces may be a bit distracting, but the illustrations work well overall, with strong use of color and shadow to convey emotion and energy. A Spanish version is available as well, in a translation by Eida de la Vega. An earlier version of the text was published under the same title in 2014 with illustrations by L.C. Wheatley.A superior telling of Yousafzai's life and work thus far. (historical notes, activist resources, sources) (Picture book/biography. 5-10)

COPYRIGHT(2018) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

From School Library Journal

November 1, 2018

K-Gr 3-This series explores celebrities and public figures who are revered for their contributions to the arts, sports, world affairs, and human rights. The books are easy to follow, with one or two very basic sentences on each page, and up-to-date photographs that correspond well to the text. An introductory guide for parents and teachers kicks off each book and will let adults effectively lead children through unfamiliar concepts. Key events about each subject's life and a picture glossary will support the earliest readers. VERDICT A fun and simple series to help little readers build confidence.

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From Horn Book

January 1, 2018
As a girl, education activist Malala Yousafzai enjoyed watching a TV show about a magic pencil. In child-friendly text, she describes how she would use a magic pencil to change the world. Facing reality, Malala began to focus on what she loved most--school and speaking out against oppression. The ink and watercolor illustrations use pastel shades and earth-tone hues to show details of young Malala's culture.

(Copyright 2018 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

From Horn Book

November 1, 2017
As a girl, Malala Yousafzai enjoyed a TV show about a boy who used a magic pencil to solve problems. In child-friendly text, she first describes what she would do if she had a magic pencil: stop time so I could sleep an extra hour every morningerase the smell of the trash dump near our house. She wondered about her own dreams and the dreams of other girls. In her society, would they have the opportunity to fulfill their dreams? If she had that magic pencil she could change the world! First, I would erase war, poverty, and hunger. Then I would draw girls and boys together as equals. Knowing that a magic pencil wasn't a reality, Malala began to focus on what she loved most--school, and speaking out against oppression. Yousafzai gently indicates in the book when others wanted to silence her but did not succeed, leaving the true, violent details out of this picture-book narration; minimal text on an all-black page hints at the darkness of her enemies' actions against her. The ink and watercolor illustrations by Kerascoet (a husband-and-wife team) use pastel shades and earth-tone hues to show details of the young Malala's culture and call attention to her dreams, wishes, and actions. In this book Yousafzai shows the world that it's never wrong to dream and hope. But dreaming is not enough--you have to take action and lend your voice. Yousafzai did, and continues to be that voice that speaks for all. aishah abdul-musawwir

(Copyright 2017 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

From Booklist

September 15, 2017
Grades K-2 Malala Yousafzai, activist and youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, takes her well-known story and brings it to a younger audience. She starts with a memory from her Pakistani childhood: watching a TV show in which a boy makes anything real by drawing it with his magic pencil. Malala drew things that would make others happy, including schools her father might open. Unlike some fathers, Malala's encourages her to learn, and learn she does. But then powerful and dangerous men forbade girls from attending school. Malala deftly handles the most difficult parts of her story. She notes simply that the men used weapons to attempt to silence her powerful voice. But they failed. The book then describes how Malala went on to become a household name. Artistically, the illustrations feel a bit lighthearted and casual, though there are plenty of moving scenes, and the decorative touches are nicely enhancing. Malala's messages of inclusivity, girls' rights, and strength through knowledge come across loud and clear.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)

From Kirkus

August 15, 2017
The latest of many picture books about the young heroine from Pakistan, this one is narrated by Malala herself, with a frame that is accessible to young readers. Malala introduces her story using a television show she used to watch about a boy with a magic pencil that he used to get himself and his friends out of trouble. Readers can easily follow Malala through her own discovery of troubles in her beloved home village, such as other children not attending school and soldiers taking over the village. Watercolor-and-ink illustrations give a strong sense of setting, while gold ink designs overlay Malala's hopes onto her often dreary reality. The story makes clear Malala's motivations for taking up the pen to tell the world about the hardships in her village and only alludes to the attempt on her life, with a black page ("the dangerous men tried to silence me. / But they failed") and a hospital bracelet on her wrist the only hints of the harm that came to her. Crowds with signs join her call before she is shown giving her famous speech before the United Nations. Toward the end of the book, adult readers may need to help children understand Malala's "work," but the message of holding fast to courage and working together is powerful and clear. An inspiring introduction to the young Nobel Peace Prize winner and a useful conversation starter. (Picture book/memoir. 5-8)

COPYRIGHT(2017) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

From School Library Journal

Starred review from August 1, 2017

Gr 3 Up-Yousafzai, the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize and campaigner for the rights of all children to attend school, has written her first picture book. It is an autobiographical account of her life designed for younger readers. She gently introduces her childhood in Pakistan and recounts a favorite TV show where a young boy has a magic pencil that he uses to help people. The magic pencil becomes a reoccurring motif throughout the work on how to make the world a better place. Of the infamous Taliban violence, she simply says, "My voice became so powerful that the dangerous men tried to silence me. But they failed." The beautifully written book goes on to describe Yousafzai's quest for justice and the importance of finding one's voice. The enchanting story is accompanied by the beautiful illustrations of duo Sebastien Cosset and Maries Pommepuy, also known as "Kerascoet." Sparse pen and ink outlines the bright, soft watercolors that effortlessly depict Yousafzai's daily life and then are enhanced by delicate gold overlay drawings that highlight her magical wishes for a better world and the power that a single voice can command. This is a wonderful read for younger students that will also provide insight and encourage discussion about the wider world. Included are biographical notes and photos of Yousafzai and her family. VERDICT The simplicity of Yousafzai's writing and the powerful message she sends, make this book inspirational for all. Highly recommended.-Carole Phillips, Greenacres Elementary School, Scarsdale, NY

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From Publisher's Weekly

Starred review from July 31, 2017
Yousafzai, the youngest winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, grew up in Pakistan dreaming of possessing a magic pencil like the one on her favorite TV show. At first, she believes that such a pencil could solve any problemâ€"from keeping her brothers out of her room to erasing war, poverty, hunger, and gender disparity. But as Malala grows, so does her sense of purpose and agency; she realizes that change comes not from magic, but from the force of her own words and ideas. When "powerful and dangerous men" (the unnamed Talibanâ€"an afterword provides details) forbid girls from attending school, she speaks up; when "they tried to silence me," an allusion to her near-fatal shooting,
"they failed." Kerascoët's bright, reportorial watercolors match the text's directness and sincerity, adding gold embellishments to give Malala's hopes and optimism a radiant physicality. The Malala in these pages is both approachable and extraordinary: even at her most vulnerable, turned away from readers and looking out the window of a darkened hospital room, her determination seems unstoppable. Ages 4—8. Author's agent: Karolina Sutton, Curtis Brown U.K. Illustrator's agent: Kirsten Hall, Catbird Agency.

From Publisher's Weekly

Starred review from May 29, 2017
Mitch McConnell's dismissal of Elizabeth Warren during a Senate confirmation hearing immediately became a feminist rallying cry. Clinton (It's Your World) and Boiger (Max and Marla) further transform it into a lovely, moving work of children's literature that might even win over those cynical about celebrity efforts in that space. Clinton succinctly summarizes the lives of women who "did not take no for an answer"; each story reiterates "she persisted" in bold type and is paired with an inspiring quote. Familiar figures (Helen Keller, Sally Ride) join ones who may be new to some readers, like union activist Clara Lemlich and Claudette Colvin, the teenager whose courageous decision to keep her seat on a Montgomery bus helped "inspire Rosa Parks to make the same choice nine months later." Boiger's celebratory watercolors effortlessly mix drama and playfulness: a luminous Harriet Tubman guides escaped slaves to freedom; a few pages later, babies beatifically float around Virginia Apgar as she examines an infant. Clinton's mother isn't profiled, but readers will spot her portrait in a gallery scene that opens this polished introduction to a diverse and accomplished group of women. Ages 4—8.

From School Library Journal

November 1, 2016

Gr 3-4-Despite the brevity of the content, much useful context is found here, such as an outline of Ruth Bader Ginsburg's legal reasoning. Frequent "In Her Words" sidebars showcase relevant quotations, culled from published or broadcast interviews, speeches, and letters. Photos include publicity portraits and more informal snapshots, for example, Malala Yousafzai recuperating in a London hospital, though none of the other subjects are portrayed as children. The focus on Hillary Clinton's public service helps sidestep any uncertainty surrounding the fall election. However, it's difficult to see Kate Middleton's place among the other women, and the biography focuses more on her role as a princess than on her influence or achievements. A web address is provided for a curated list of online resources.

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From Booklist

November 1, 2016
The Superwomen Role Models series might be hyping its subjects with that title, but not by much. Four very different but notable women are introduced here. Malala Yousafzai gives a compact introduction to the young activist's story, focusing on her father's role in her life, both by providing her with education and standing by her when she made speeches about education, which led to her being shot by the Taliban. Brightly formatted and engaging, these books include quotes by the featured women, short but informative sidebars, and exceptionally sharp color photos. Strong introductions to strong women.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)

From Horn Book

July 1, 2016
Each short, inspiring biography is divided into four or five chapters written in an objective, unpretentious manner. Quotation sources are fastidiously footnoted and listed in the back matter. Navigation is easy thanks to clean layouts and a simple color scheme (orange photo captions, navy call-out boxes). Great for school assignments and engaging enough for pleasure reading. Reading list. Glos., ind.

(Copyright 2016 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

From School Library Journal

April 1, 2016

Gr 3-5-This is a fine set for confident early to middle grade readers servicing both recreational reading and assignment purposes. Each subject comes alive with simple, clear sentences covering childhood and life accomplishments. The overall design is eye-catching with large fonts, numerous excellent photos, and colorful sidebars. Vocabulary words are bolded and defined on the same spread in a "Vocabulary Box." Despite the serious content of some of these subjects, the tone remains light and focused on conveying the information in an accessible way. In Anne Frank, the description of an Anne Frank House tour includes an observation on the purpose of asking visitors questions at the end of every tour-"This process allows the heart to rest while the brain takes over," a valuable concept and tool for children who might have trouble ingesting heavy historical stories. VERDICT Strong additions, particularly Anne Frank, Dr. Seuss, and Walt Disney.

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From School Library Journal

November 1, 2015

Gr 3-6-This well-researched and lucidly written series takes on various figures who have overcome obstacles. The books offer colorful presentation and incorporate references to contemporary popular culture where appropriate. Explanations of the scientific concepts in Marie Curie and Stephen Hawking, for example, are clear and easily grasped. Potentially volatile subjects, such as the racism of the apartheid system in South Africa in Nelson Mandela, are portrayed in detail and with candor, though at times more sensitive aspects are dealt with in softer focus. "Who's Who" sidebars sketch out related personalities. Some titles offer suggestions for further research, such as finding out more about the region of Pakistan where Yousafzai was born. VERDICT These engaging and solidly reported biographies will appeal to students looking for inspirational stories.

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From Horn Book

July 1, 2015
This biography series for new readers highlights five iconic figures from modern history in stilted (though easy-to-digest) texts that do not provide the depth of understanding required to appreciate their accomplishments. Large, well-chosen photographs on wide-trim spreads add most of the interest; an appended timeline basically repeats the main text. Glos., ind.

(Copyright 2015 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

From School Library Journal

April 1, 2015

K-Gr 2-Very basic facts are presented in simply, clearly written volumes appropriate for those just starting out on introductory biographies. Two to four sentences per page face a generally good quality color or black-and-white photo; unfortunately, the images aren't captioned. The large, bold black typeface is surrounded by ample white space, making for comfortable reading; words defined in glossaries are set off in gray type. These information-packed titles will help readers understand why these individuals are important and appreciate their contributions to society. VERDICT These will successfully fit the bill for those in need of easy-to-read biographies.

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From School Library Journal

January 1, 2015

Gr 6 Up-In this young readers edition of Yousafzai's best-selling memoir, the Nobel Peace Prize winner retells her experiences at home and at school and discusses the impact of the Taliban presence in Pakistan. Her strong voice and ideals come across on every page, emphasizing how her surroundings and supportive family helped her become the relevant figure she is today. Yousafzai highlights the importance of school and how it was the only space where she felt empowered. Although at times the transitions between personal accounts and historical background feel abrupt, Yousafzai effectively summarizes her story and her advocacy for girls' education, peace, and human rights. Above all, she stresses that she doesn't want to be known as the girl shot by the Taliban but rather as a young person who actively fought for education. A strong addition to social studies, history, and biography collections.-Sujei Lugo, Somerville Public Library, MA

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From Horn Book

January 1, 2015
Young Readers Edition. Young education activist and Taliban victim Malala Yousafzai recounts her Pakistani childhood in this deftly adapted memoir. Domestic and academic tales illustrate her unusual maturity and resilience in the face of increasing Taliban threats. Yousafzai's moving narrative and engaging, sincere voice may provide an entryway to international awareness for middle-grade readers; a map and a thorough timeline provide additional political context. Glos.

(Copyright 2015 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

From Publisher's Weekly

Starred review from August 25, 2014
Adapted with McCormick (Never Fall Down) from the adult bestseller, this inspiring memoir by activist Yousafzai sketches her brave actions to champion education in Pakistan under the Taliban. Her father runs a school in the Swat Valley, where Malala proves an eager student; as the Taliban gains influence, she increasingly becomes an international spokesperson for girls' right to learn. The narrative begins with a prologue in which a Taliban gunman boards her school bus and asks, "Who is Malala?" The authors then offer insight into the cultural and political events leading up to the shooting that followed and Yousafzai's dramatic recovery. Yousafzai highlights the escalating tensions as the Taliban takes holdâ€Â"including the strictures against girls attending school, the obliteration of Western influence, violence, and the eventual warâ€Â"but also brings the universal to life as she quarrels with her brothers, treasures her best friend, and strives to earn top grades. A glossary, color photo inserts, and an extensive timeline help establish context. It's a searing and personal portrait of a young woman who dared to make a difference. Ages 10â€Â"up.

From Kirkus

August 1, 2014
A cursory introduction to the Pakistani teenager who earned international attention (and a Nobel Peace Prize nomination) after surviving a Taliban gunman's assassination attempt. Doeden draws largely from Yousafzai's 2013 autobiography and a handful of news reports to craft his account. He explains how she, as the eldest daughter of a dedicated founder of girls schools in Pakistan and co-author (at the age of 11) of a personal blog sponsored by the BBC Urdu, became a public face for Muslim girls' education-and therefore a Taliban target. Silenced only temporarily by a bullet to the head in 2012, she has gone on not only to become an even more vocal advocate for equal (not to say any) education, but to challenge President Barack Obama face to face about the use of military drones in her country. It's a straightforward account geared to those who aren't ready to tackle longer, richer resources. Most of the cramped color photos, and all of the unhelpful pull quotes, serve to fill space more than anything else. A portrait of a courageous and admirable young voice for change-but no substitute for the book that is its major source. (map, endnotes, bibliography) (Biography. 10-12)

COPYRIGHT(2014) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

From Publisher's Weekly

May 19, 2014
When on her way to school in Pakistan in 2012, 15-year-old Malala Yousafzai was shot in the head by the Taliban. Surviving her injuries and now living in England, Malala has become an emissary for peace, promoting the rights of girls and women worldwide. McCarneyâ€Â"who heads Plan International Canada, part of a global nonprofit charity that seeks to abolish povertyâ€Â"assembles a communal letter adapted from actual letters written to Malala from girls around the world. The letter acts as a message of solidarity from girls who have experienced persecution for being female. Large photographs, both sober and joyful, show girls in communities in Brazil, China, India, and other countries. One girl dressed in a wedding gown stares impassively at readers while, opposite, a Filipino child stands alone on a street ("In many countries bullets are not the only way to silence girls. Early marriage... poverty... discrimination... violence... all play a part"). A transcript of Malala's 2013 speech before the United Nations' Youth Assembly, delivered on her 16th birthday, provides a rousing conclusion to this arresting tribute to bravery and determination. Ages 5â€Â"9.

From School Library Journal

February 1, 2014

Gr 6-10-These biographies each begin with a pivotal event in the subject's life. After that, Jonas Salk and Pope Francis follow a traditional chronological biography framework, while Malala Yousafzai contains chapters on Pakistan, Islam, and the Taliban to give readers context. The authors don't hesitate to discuss controversies in the lives of the subjects; for example, Pope Francis includes information about Argentina's Dirty War and the Catholic Church's sex-abuse scandal. Each book ends with a time line and page of essential facts (a short overview of the subject's life useful to readers who don't need all the details of a full biography). The texts are broken up with color photos and sidebars featuring quotes and information on related people and issues (for example, the Catholic Church hierarchy). Sometimes the placement can be problematic; in Malala, the term "Pashtun" appears several pages before the sidebar that explains it. Unfortunately, the writing in these titles tends to read like reports; the subjects do not come to life.-Jackie Partch, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From Publisher's Weekly

January 27, 2014
Yousafzai, the Pakistani teen who captured worldwide attention and admiration after surviving a violent attack from militant forces opposed to female education in her region, introduces the audio edition of her memoir with the same enthusiastic oratorical style that characterized her appearance before the United Nations. Emmy-winner Panjabi (The Good Wife) reads with a balanced tone that manages to embody both Yousafzai's youthful zeal and the seasoned perspective of coauthor and foreign correspondent Lamb. Panjabi's narration effectively evokes the attachment of Yousafzai to her community, and her enunciation and pronunciation lends authenticity to the production. A helpful PDF with color photos, a glossary, and a timeline is also included. A Little, Brown hardcover.

From Horn Book

January 1, 2014
Though sometimes repetitive (Estie) or awkwardly written (Malcolm X), these standard-issue biographies, illustrated with stock photographs, do offer balanced portraits of their subjects and will be useful for report writers. With fewer years to cover, Malala includes chapters on Pakistan, Islam, and the Taliban. The many sidebars are informative if somewhat distracting. Reading list, timelime. Bib., glos., ind.

(Copyright 2014 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

From Library Journal

May 15, 2013

On October 9, 2012, the teenaged Yousafzai was very nearly assassinated by members of the Taliban who objected to her education and women's rights activism in Pakistan. Currently, she lives in England, under threat of execution by the Taliban if she returns home. Lamb, who has been reporting from Pakistan for 26 years and was named Foreign Correspondent of the Year five times, helps Yousafzai tell her hugely significant story.

Copyright 2013 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

From Kirkus

Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani teen shot for her activism for girls' education, tells her story for a middle-grade audience.Although billed as a "young readers edition" of Yousafzai's 2013 book of the same name for adults, co-written with Christina Lamb, the designation does the book a disservice, as this is no simple redaction. With the capable assistance of co-author McCormick, the account has been effectively rewritten specifically for children. The story is straightforward, related chronologically and covering Yousafzai's growth in activism, her shooting and her recovery in England. Yousafzai's voice is appealingly youthful, though it often tells rather than shows and frequently goes over the top: In her school, she writes, "we flew on wings of knowledge." Still, young Western readers will come to understand the gulf that separates them from Yousafzai through carefully chosen anecdotes, helping them see what drives her to such lyrical extremes. Unfortunately, much is lost in the translation from the adult book, presumably sacrificed for brevity and directness; most lamentable is social and political context. Although readers will come away with a good understanding of Yousafzai's immediate experiences, the geopolitical forces that shape her culture go largely unmentioned except in a closing timeline that amounts to a dizzying list of regime changes. Though Yousafzai's memoir never transcends her story, that story is a powerful and inspiring one; supplemented by contextualizing information, it should pack quite a wallop. (glossary) (Memoir. 10-14) COPYRIGHT(1) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.