Some American school children are up-in-arms after word got out that the school day and year might be extended. As discussion heats up, bring out NASREEN’S SECRET SCHOOL by Jeanette Winter (Beach Lane Books, an imprint of Simon and Schuster 2009 $16.99).
This true story from Afghanistan tells of a young girl who desperately wants to go to school. However the Taliban do not support educating girls. Nasreen’s grandmother hears of a secret school and enrolls Nasreen. The power of simply being in school with a dedicated teacher and a new friend lifts Nasreen out of her sadness. Powerful text matched with powerful illustrations.
This attitude differs dramatically from the American mind set of many. Picture book, available now.