Malala Yousafzai (She Dared)

Gr 3-6--Walsh begins Malala Yousafzai's biography at age 10. Readers are introduced to a young Yousafzai and her loving family and promising future--and how it was all threatened when the Taliban invaded Pakistan. Walsh details life under Taliban rule and their attempt to murder Yousafzai, her subsequent recovery, and her later role as international education advocate. The text is accessible for independent readers, including younger students looking for more challenging material. Walsh tackles difficult subject matter, such as extremism and violence, in an age-appropriate manner. Much of the narrative is dedicated to the build up to the shooting; the Nobel Prize winner's teenage years and early adulthood are rushed at the end. A number of photos of Yousafzai are also included in the middle of the book. VERDICT A solid pick for middle grade readers.--Brittany McMahon, Westernport Elementary School, MD

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Praise for She Dared: Malala Yousafzai

Accessible for independent readers, including younger students looking for more challenging material. Walsh tackles difficult subject matter, such as extremism and violence, in an age-appropriate manner. — School Library Journal

Praise for She Dared: Bethany Hamilton

An inspiration to readers... Recommended. — School Library Connection

Many of the passages are powerful, depicting the drama of Hamilton's experiences and demonstrating the impact of her Christian faith, her mental toughness, and her family's support. — School Library Journal

While engaging text puts readers in the life-or-death moment, the book focuses more on Bethany's recovery... [an] inspirational journey. — Booklist