Malala's Magic Pencil

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Pub Date 17 Oct 2017 | Archive Date 17 Oct 2017

Description

** Shortlisted for the Little Rebels Children's Book Award! **

As a child in Pakistan, Malala made a wish for a magic pencil that she could use to redraw reality. She would use it to give gifts to her family, to erase the smell from the rubbish dump near her house, to sleep an extra hour in the morning. As she grew older, Malala wished for bigger and bigger things. She saw a world that needed fixing. And even if she never found a magic pencil, Malala realized that she could still work hard every day to make her wishes come true.

This beautifully illustrated picture book tells Malala's story, in her own words, for a younger audience and shows them the worldview that allowed her to hold on to hope and to make her voice heard even in the most difficult of times.

** Shortlisted for the Little Rebels Children's Book Award! **

As a child in Pakistan, Malala made a wish for a magic pencil that she could use to redraw reality. She would use it to give gifts to...


Advance Praise

"Warm, tender and brave, this beautiful version of Malala's inspiring story should be something every parent reads with their child." - Booktrust

"Warm, tender and brave, this beautiful version of Malala's inspiring story should be something every parent reads with their child." - Booktrust


Available Editions

EDITION Other Format
ISBN 9780241322567
PRICE £12.99 (GBP)

Average rating from 30 members


Featured Reviews

Malala's hopeful story comes to children's fiction complete with delicate and colourful illustrations that is sure to inspire a new generation of children who will fight for what they believe in.

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A beautiful version of Malala's story. It makes me wish I'd watched the TV show! Young children will enjoy reading this, spreading her message even further.
I did notice a couple of repeated lines, but that's presumably from the Kindle process.
Thank you very much for the chance to read this book. I'll be looking forward to seeing it in real life!

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My first thought was 'not another Malala book' however I really enjoyed the perspective of this picture book focusing as it did with the contrast between magical and wishful thinking that all children indulge in and taking action on your convictions. The illustrations are also very well done.

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Although I am an adult I always find books about Malala very confronting, usually there are pictures of men with guns, of a girl persecuted for her desire to learn, and areas of debris that were once homes. A life far from what we experience here in Australia. I always initially feel concern that we are exposing children to books with these things in it, but then I step back and think about how many children and living this every day and that sharing this with other children around the world is a step forward in helping make the world a better place. This book, along with other Malala books teach children about strength, hope and standing up for what you believe in.

Malala tells us a story about how she wanted a magic pencil, one that would give her more sleep, lock her doors, take away smells from nearby rubbish and to make other people happy. She begins to share her story of how school is her favourite place, how girls were soon forbidden from attending school, of weapon carrying men and of how in all her bravery she spoke up for what she believed…that all girls deserved an education. In turn for her strength, people tried to silence her yet throughout all this Malala was thinking about a magic pencil that she wished she had that could take it all away. Her magic pencil ended up being an ordinary pencil that wrote extraordinary words which she has shared across the world.

This is one of the best books yet that I have seen written about Malala, she has told her story in a way that is sensitive and true. Her words have been paired with illustrations that visually capture not only my eyes, but also my heart. I am moved by her courage and strength that she has written so eloquently about. This book is probably best read together with a parent or adult in case your child wishes to talk about the content. Although it has been written with children in mind, there is still information that many children would not be familiar with or wish to talk through.

I recommend this book for school aged children.

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Sweet and inspirational - well chosen illustrator to match Malala's story in an accessible picture book that every child I know will be getting for Christmas!

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Review posted on YouTube -- https://youtu.be/buVHdNvncPI

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Malala is the most inspirational voices of our generation, and will continue to be thought of as such far into the future. This picture book gives you an insight into Malala's childhood, revealing why she decided to start speaking out about the state of education in her country.
I haven't read any of Malala's writing before, but I need to. This was a delightful introduction to her work, and the illustrations are so beautiful!
This will definitely appeal more to older children and young teenagers, as it's not only educational but enjoyable too.

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My 7 year old daughter (a discerning reader!) gave this 4 and a half stars, and we both enjoyed it. I've admired Malala for a number of years, and thought this book was a great way to introduce her story and mission to younger readers. My daughter's first question was 'Is this real' so I went on to use the info at the back to tell her about Malala. The illustrations are lovely and really add to the story.

The book significantly underplays her courage and the real threats from the Taliban to her, instead focusing on the value of education and the ways all of us can use our voice to advocate for change.

Malala's Magic pencil is an inspiring read for children and adults, and a great way to introduce children to serious issues.

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I knew the basics about Malala before, but I never bothered to read more about her. This little and wonderful book made me read everything there is about her, and I really loved it. It is very hopeful, inspiring and represents a short account of her life, her hopes and struggle to make her country a better place. I'm really glad there are still some people in the world who are caring and fearless, and would raise their voice for those who need it most, even if that would pose a threat to their lives. Many people say Malala is over-appreciated, but how would they feel if they weren't allowed to go to school just because of their gender, or if they were shot in the head for speaking up for those who can't? Malala is very brave and now I too admire her work and efforts. Also, the illustrations are simply beautiful, I'm a big fan of the Kerascoet duo, which is the reason I picked this book in the first place.

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A beautifully illustrated book that tells the story of Malala's childhood in a simple way. Even though the story is perhaps aimed at younger children, I think young teenagers will appreciate this too.

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Beautiful picture book that tells the story of this inspirational young woman in her own words. The illustrations are just gorgeous and perfectly in keeping with the text, being dark and atmospheric in places without being upsetting for younger readers. It would be a perfect book for using for topic work in a primary school, so many angles to cover, but is also a great read aloud for at home.

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An inspiring and magical story!
Malala’s story is one which could be hard to share with young children due to the dangers and hardship she had to face however, the picture book has just the right amount of detail about the challenges she face for the younger reader. It focuses on her determination and positivity instead.

A story which I will definitely be sharing with children, of all ages, at my school when it is published.

Thanks Netgalley and Penguin Random House for the ARC.

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Malala's writings and messages have already proved a big hit with readers both old and young. Here her story has been adapted for a younger audience and the morals and advice that lie within what is now a very concise book are going to be ideal for the primary school classroom.

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This picture book serves as a good introduction to Malala Yousafzai for children. Malala's bravery and commitment to playing her part in improving the world are demonstrated, and this story is sure to inspire others to speak up for what they believe in. Personally, I feel that the illustrations by Kerascoet are adequate rather than inspirational, but it is a nice touch to have photographs of Malala at different ages shown at the end of the book, as I think this will encourage children to relate to her even more.

I received this ebook free from NetGalley in return for an honest review.

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Malala's Magic Pencil is the story of little girl who, through the power of her pen, has managed to shake the consciences and inspiring many people in the world. Malala Yousafzai, Nobel Peace Prize, addresses small readers by explaining to them the importance of pursuing their dreams, despite the difficulties. A way to talk to readers by means of pictures, elegant styles and soft colors. A brief illustrated work able to convey this message to the more adult audience.

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This is a must for any teacher, global learning in action. Malala is truly inspirational and her story is essential for all to hear. Age is irrelevant when what you’re saying is as powerful as this. I shall be recommending my students find out more about Malala and her magic pencil.

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