by Reina Chaiekh | Feb 27, 2026
Have students each research two facts about Afghanistan (e.g., languages, religion, population, area, capital, life expectancy, literacy rate, monetary unit, flag, geographical features, climate, historical information, art, architecture, music, media). Have...
by Reina Chaiekh | Feb 26, 2026
Organize groups of students to research historical and political events that the novel introduces, (e.g., the Taliban takeover in 1996; the September 11, 2001 attacks on the U.S.; the invasion of Afghanistan after September 11; the ongoing fighting among regional...
by Reina Chaiekh | Feb 26, 2026
Parvana jokingly says that the only thing she would ever torture someone for is the answer to “Where is the key to the library?” (page 84). Talk with students about the novel’s theme of the importance of reading, and invite them to find other examples in the book that...
by Reina Chaiekh | Feb 26, 2026
Ask students to work in groups to research people and organizations that work to improve the lives of Afghan citizens. They can post written reports and include photos to create a Wall of Achievement (see page 42). Be sure to check the websites first to ensure...
by Reina Chaiekh | Feb 26, 2026
“She could not remember a time when she did not believe she was on the edge of disaster … she was never, ever sure that the future would not be terrifying” (page 159). Ask students to find and discuss other sentences or passages that emphasize the struggles that...
