P is for Pakistan

P is for Pakistan

Written by: Shazia Razzak

Elementary Grades

"In this photographic alphabet, the author introduces young readers to some of the customs, religions and cultures - both ancient and modern - that make up this fast-developing country. Focusing on both city and country life, this is a celebration of Pakistan in all its aspects, from dhobi to jasmine, from hijab to water buffalo."

Publishers Synopsis

Online Resources:
http://www.katw.org/pages/sitepage.cfm?id=119
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/teachers/aw/wr/article/0,28138,1612040,00.html

Listen to the Wind: The Story of Dr. Greg and Three Cups of Tea

Listen to the Wind: The Story of Dr. Greg and Three Cups of Tea

Written by: Greg Mortonson
Illustrated by: Susan Roth

Elementary Grades

"Best-selling author Mortenson told his remarkable story in the adult book Three Cups of Tea (2006). After getting lost while trying to climb the mountain K2, he found himself in a Pakistani village. This, as it turned out was the beginning of a different journey. Here Mortenson and Roth retell his remarkable story through the eyes of Pakistani children. After being rescued and nursed to health by the villagers, Mortenson wonders what he can do to thank them. Advised by a wise elder to “listen to the wind,” Mortenson becomes aware of children’s voices, children he has helped teach during his convalescence, and he decides to build them a school. The steep terrain and remote setting present nearly overwhelming obstacles, but finally, the school is opened with great celebration. The picture-book narrative successfully compresses Mortenson’s story by focusing on the elements most important to children: the stranger’s appearance, the drama of the construction, the happy conclusion."

Book List Review

Online Resources:
http://www.threecupsoftea.com/

Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Journey to Change the World... One Child at a Time

Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Journey to Change the World... One Child at a Time

Written by: Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin

Junior High and High School Grades

"Hiking in the mountains of Pakistan in 1993, Mortenson got lost. He found his way to a small village where the locals helped him recover from his ordeal. While there, he noticed that the students had no building and did all of their schooling out of doors. Motivated to repay the kindness he had received, he vowed to return to the village and help build a school. Thus began his real life's journey. Mortenson's story recounts the troubles he faced in the U.S. trying to raise the money and then in Pakistan, trying to get the actual supplies to a remote mountain location. His eventual success led to another, and yet another, until he established a foundation and built a string of schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Mortenson manages to give the story an insider's feel despite being an outsider himself. His love of the region and the people is evident throughout and his dedication to them stalwart."

School Library Journal Review


Online Resources:
http://www.threecupsoftea.com/
http://www.teachervision.fen.com/literature-guide/printable/60117.html

Nadia's Hands

Nadia's Hands

Written by: Karen English
Illustrated by: Jonathan Weiner

Elementary Grades

"In Nadia's Hands, a young Pakistani American girl worries about what her classmates will say when they see the intricate designs painted on her hands as she prepares to be the flower girl in her aunt's wedding. But as she participates in the traditional ceremony, Nadia learns to appreciate the beauty of her hands -- and the richness of her heritage."

Boyd's Mill Press

Online Resources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehndi

The Carpet Boy's Gift

The Carpet Boy's Gift

Written by: Pegi Dietz Shay
Illustrated by: Leane Morin

Upper Elementary and Junior High Grades

"Inspired by the true story of Iqbal Masih, a boy from Pakistan who fought for the rights of child laborers, this tale follows Nadeem, a youngster who has been forced to work in a carpet factory under inhumane conditions to repay a "loan" made to his parents. His life is changed forever after he meets Iqbal, who informs him of a new law that will enable all children to stop working and attend school. Nadeem eventually gathers the courage to leave the factory along with the other youngsters; tragically, the real Iqbal was shot and killed at age 12 after working to free hundreds of boys and girls like Nadeem. This serious subject matter is handled with intelligence and care, giving young readers enough information to form their own opinions."

School Library Journal Review

Web Resources:

http://www.tilburyhouse.com/childrens/the-carpet-boys-gift-teachers-take-note.htm