Malala Yousafzai: Genius
Genius Series: Illustrated Biographies for Kids of Geniuses Who Made History
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This biography explores the extraordinary life of Malala Yousafzai, who became an international symbol of the fight for girls' education after she was shot by the Taliban. The book follows her journey from a young girl in Pakistan who simply wanted to go to school, to a prominent activist for human rights. It is an engagingly illustrated biography that covers everything from her life-changing ride to school in October 2012, to her Nobel Peace Prize in 2014, and the incredible work she is still doing today. Narrated by Malala herself, this volume is part of the Genius Series designed for elementary school children to learn about great historical figures.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What challenges did Malala face, and how did she overcome them?
Why do you think education is important for every child around the world?
How can speaking out help make a difference in the world?
What qualities do you admire most in Malala, and why?
If you had the opportunity, what cause would you speak up for?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on the importance of education and ask your child to reflect on their own educational experiences.
Encourage your child to think about what they would stand up for, discussing the importance of having a cause and being brave.
Highlight Malala's resilience and invite your child to share a time when they faced a challenge and how they dealt with it.
Discuss the global perspective of education, emphasizing the differences and similarities between their experience and children in other parts of the world.
Use examples from the book to highlight how young voices, like their own, can be powerful and effect change.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of education
Explanation: Malala Yousafzai's story emphasizes the importance of education and its ability to empower individuals.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to value and pursue their education, recognizing it as a tool for personal and societal improvement.
Example Lesson: Courage and resilience
Explanation: Despite facing extreme adversity, Malala demonstrates unwavering courage and resilience by standing up for her right to education.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be courageous in their convictions and resilient in the face of challenges.
Example Lesson: Equality and activism
Explanation: Malala advocates for equal education rights for girls, highlighting the role of activism in achieving social justice.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to advocate for fairness and equality in their own communities, understanding the impact of their voices.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Malala’s recovery and continued activism after her attack showcases her determination and perseverance.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persevering despite difficulties, encouraging them to keep striving towards their goals.
Example Lesson: Global awareness
Explanation: The book provides insight into global issues, particularly those affecting girls in other parts of the world.
Real-World Application: Children can become more globally aware and empathetic towards people from different backgrounds and cultures.