Parvana - WHO AM I?
I am the main character of the story. I disguise myself as a boy to help my family survive. I read letters for strangers at the marketplace. Who am I?
Parvana
These themes focus on the importance of relationships and connections with others. They highlight the importance of providing support, love and a sense of belonging.
Family and Community
Parvana’s hair was cut short and she dressed as a boy.
What is the effect?
She was able to go to the market on her own without anyone stopping her.
Where the story takes place
Setting
I used to be a writer for a radio station. I became very depressed after my husband was arrested. I rely on Parvana’s help to keep the family alive. Who am I?
Mother/Fatana
This theme is not just about being brave, it’s also about taking action even when things are really tough.
Courage
The Taliban took Father away.
The family had no money and had to find ways to survive.
Parvana had to dress as a boy to work for the family.
The most exciting part of the story - the turning point.
Climax
I am a strong, determined woman. I move in with Parvana’s family to help them. I start a secret school and write articles to give Afghan women a voice. Who am I?
Mrs. Weera
This theme explores how characters grow or transform over time. This can be internal or external.
Change
Parvana starts working in the marketplace reading and writing letters.
She earns money to buy food and supplies for her family.
Something happens! This is the incident which starts the action of the book
I am Parvana’s friend. I also disguise myself as a boy to earn money. I dream of escaping to France and living in a field of flowers. Who am I?
Shauzia
This theme is about not giving up, even when things are difficult. It’s about bouncing back from difficulties and continuing to try.
Resilience
Shauzia wants a better future away from Afghanistan.
She makes a plan to escape to France.
The sequence of events that happen as a result of the conflict/problem. These actions/events usually get more intense over time.
Rising Action
I am a teenage girl who lost my whole family in an attack. Parvana finds me weak and frightened, and helps me recover. I share news of how dangerous the situation has become in Mazar. Who am I?
Homa
This theme focuses on how characters understand who they are. It explores the journey of self-discovery.
Identity
Mrs. Weera comes to live with Parvana’s family.
She helps the family stay strong, organises them, and encourages Mother to write articles again.
This is the underlying message or central idea in a story (e.g. love, perseverance, or betrayal) that reflects deeper meaning beyond the plot.
Theme