Free as a Bird: The Story of Malala

The inspiring true story of Malala Yousafzai, human rights activist and the youngest ever winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, from debut author/illustrator Lina Maslo. Celebrate the power of one young woman speaking up for change with Free as a Bird. This beautiful nonfiction picture book is perfect for sharing at home or in the classroom.

When Malala Yousafzai was born, some people shook their heads because girls were considered bad luck. But her father looked into her eyes and knew she could do anything.

In Pakistan, some believed girls should not be educated. But Malala and her father were not afraid. She secretly went to school and spoke up for education in her country.

And even though an enemy tried to silence her powerful voice, she would not keep quiet. Malala traveled around the world to speak to girls and boys, to teachers, reporters, presidents, and queens—to anyone who would listen—and advocated for the right to education and equality of opportunity for every person. She would shout so that those without a voice could be heard. So everyone could be as free as a bird.

Free as a Bird is the inspiring true story of a fearless girl and the father who taught her to soar. A unique way to celebrate the power of a young woman, and to honor a father who strives to let his daughter shine.

This empowering book is perfect for introducing young readers to important themes:

• An Inspiring Role Model: Discover the story of Malala Yousafzai, the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize winner, and her incredible journey from a young girl in Pakistan to a global activist.
• Courage and Resilience: A gentle but powerful introduction to how Malala stood up to those who tried to silence her, and survived to make her voice even stronger.
• The Right to Education: Follow Malala as she secretly attends school and speaks out for the right of every child, especially girls, to receive an education.
• A Father's Love: Celebrate the beautiful bond between Malala and her father, who believed in her from the start and taught her she could be "free as a bird."

“With elegant prose and evocative imagery, Free as a Bird takes even the youngest reader by the hand into Malala’s world, a world where pure determination can help shape a better future.” - Award-winning illustrator Pat Cummings

“Lina Maslo has done something remarkable: from grim headlines about the oppression and danger faced by girls who dream too big, she has woven a story threaded with love, courage and the inspiring evidence that even one child can make a remarkable impact on the world. With elegant prose and evocative imagery, Free as a Bird takes even the youngest reader by the hand into Malala’s world, a world where pure determination can help shape a better future.” - Award-winning author/illustrator Pat Cummings

“An awe-inspiring tribute to the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner ever” - Booklist

“Timeless in its message, this biography is a fine addition to nonfiction collections.” - School Library Journal

“[A] visually poetic addition to the growing collection of children’s books about [Malala]” - Publishers Weekly