Central Idea
What is the main idea of the Prologue section?
It introduces Malala's ordinary school day that ends with her being attacked.
What can you infer about Malala’s character from her reaction to the Taliban’s threat?
She is brave, determined, and refuses to let fear control her.
“Malala’s father refused to be intimidated by the Taliban.” What does intimidated mean?
Frightened or made to feel afraid; context shows he stayed brave even when threatened.
Which line best shows that Malala was inspired by her father’s bravery?
“My father had always stood by me. Could I stand by him? I knew without even thinking that I could.”
What effect does using firstperson narration have on readers?
It makes the story feel personal and emotional, allowing readers to experience Malala’s fear and hope directly.
What does pseudonym mean in the text?
A false or made-up name used by an author to hide their identity.
What is the central message of the School Girl's Diary section?
Even in danger, Malala believes every child deserves an education and that speaking out can create change.
Why did Malala’s father not argue with Ayesha’s father about the diary?
He respected the other father’s fear and right to protect his child, showing his wisdom and empathy
“The Taliban made restrictions on what girls could do.” Use the context to define restrictions.
Rules or limits placed on behavior or freedom.
What detail shows how Malala’s daily life changed under Taliban control?
“One by one, girls stopped coming to school. Their fathers forbade them. Their brothers forbade them.”
How does Malala use tone to influence the reader?
Her hopeful, determined tone inspires readers to care about education and admire her courage.
What does pronouncement mean when describing the Taliban’s message?
A formal or official public announcement or declaration.
How does Malala's relationship with her parents influence her decisions?
Her parents support education and equality, giving her courage to speak out even when it’s risky.
What conclusion can you draw about the risk Malala took by writing her diary?
She risked her life to make the world aware of the Taliban’s actions and to defend girls’ education.
She wanted her voice to resonate beyond Pakistan.” What does resonate mean in this context?
To have a lasting emotional impact or to be heard and remembered widely.
What evidence shows that Malala valued education even when it was dangerous?
She kept attending school and even wrote secret diary entries for the BBC to tell the world what was happening.
Why does Malala include dialogue with her parents early in the story?
It shows her family’s love, humor, and support — helping readers connect to her normal life before tragedy struck.
What does surrendering mean when describing the families who stopped sending their daughters to school?
Giving up or submitting; no longer resisting the Taliban’s control.
Why is hope an important theme in this text?
Despite threats and violence, Malala and her family never stop believing that things can improve.
Based on her morning prayer before the exam, what does Malala value most?
She values knowledge, faith, and success through hard work.
“Malala persisted in attending school even when others stayed home.” What does persisted mean based on the context?
Continued firmly despite difficulty or opposition; refused to give up.
What description helps readers visualize Mingora?
“Haji Baba Road was a jumble of brightly colored rickshaws, women in flowing robes, men on scooters, honking and zigzagging through the traffic.”
What is the symbolic meaning of Malala wearing her “bright pink shalwar kamiz”?
It symbolizes courage and defiance — she refuses to hide or live in fear.
What does defy mean when referring to girls disobeying their families’ orders?
To resist or go against authority.
What lesson does Malala’s story teach about standing up for what’s right?
True bravery means using your voice, even when you’re afraid — education and truth are worth fighting for.
How does the prologue foreshadow events later in the story?
The attack on the bus hints at the danger Malala will face because of her activism.
Malala describes walking to school while looking over her shoulder for fear she might see a Talib following her. What does the word over her shoulder suggest about how she feels, and how does the context help you determine this?
The phrase suggests caution, fear, and alertness. The context shows she is anxious about her safety and constantly aware of danger while going to school.
Which line best shows Malala’s mother’s support despite fear?
“She gave us her answer with a verse from the Holy Quran… ‘Falsehood has to die, and truth has to come forward.’”
How does Malala’s point of view help readers understand both fear and hope?
She shares her personal fears but also her faith in God and belief that truth will overcome violence.
The word resilient could describe Malala. What does it mean?
Able to recover quickly from hardship; showing strength and determination.