Muzoon - by Muzoon Almellehan & Wendy Pearlman

About the Book

Muzoon was fourteen years old when her family made the wrenching decision to leave their home in Syria. War had begun. Peaceful protests were met with shootings. Next, bombs were flying overhead. Even still, Muzoon wanted to stay. What would become of her in a refugee camp? Would there be a school there? Would she ever be able to go home again? In this inspiring memoir, Muzoon shares how she grew up as a refugee. And how she spoke up for what she needed: A chance to learn. A chance to make a difference. Muzoon wasn't just fighting for herself - she wanted to help other refugee kids, too. And she shows how one stubborn, determined girl can change the world.

Book Synopsis

"Muzoon takes readers on her perilous and ultimately hopeful journey from refugee child to advocate for others in need."
--Malala Yousafzai, bestselling author and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize

When her family had to flee Syria, 14-year-old Muzoon was told to pack only the most essential things--and so she packed her schoolbooks.

This is the inspiring true story of a Syrian refugee who fought hard for what she needed--and grew into one of the world's leading advocates for education.

This eye-opening memoir tells the story of a young girl's life in Syria, her family's wrenching decision to leave their home, and the upheaval of life in a refugee camp. Though her life had utterly changed, one thing remained the same. She knew that education was the key to a better future--for herself, and so that she could help her country. She went from tent to tent in the camp, trying to convince other kids, especially girls, to come to school. And her passion and dedication soon had people calling her the "Malala of Syria."
Muzoon has grown into an internationally recognized advocate for refugees, for education, and for the rights of girls and women, and is now a UNICEF goodwill ambassador--the first refugee to play that role.
Muzoon's story is absolutely riveting and will inspire young readers to use their own voices and stand up for what they believe in.

Review Quotes

"Muzoon takes readers on her perilous and ultimately hopeful journey from refugee child to advocate for others in need. This book offers insight into the promise of education for children who have lost everything but their belief in a brighter future." -- Malala Yousafzai, bestselling author and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize

"One compelling story amid millions, delivered in a strong, steadfast voice. [Muzoon] challenges readers to pay attention "I don't want people to know about refugees," she tells an interviewer. "I want them to listen to refugees." " --Kirkus Reviews

"A moving and gripping memoir. Inspiring." --Booklist

"Vivid descriptions prove immersive throughout this powerful experiential telling that's situated as both "my story" and "a window into many other stories."" --Publishers Weekly

About the Author

MUZOON ALMELLEHAN is an internationally recognized activist for education, refugees, and the rights of girls and women. She is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, the first with official refugee status. She was named one of Glamour magazine's Women of the Year and one of Teen Vogue's 21 Under 21.

Muzoon has spoken in front of the United Nations General Assembly and at the G20 Summit in Germany, among several other distinguished audiences, and presented a TEDxTeen Talk called "The Future of Syria Depends on One Thing." Angela Merkel, Bill Clinton, and Malala Yousafzai are among the supporters of Muzoon and her important work.

Muzoon now lives in Newcastle, England, with her family, and is a graduate of Newcastle University.

WENDY PEARLMAN is a professor of political science at Northwestern University who has written four books. Wendy's book We Crossed a Bridge and It Trembled: Voices from Syria is a collection of firsthand testimonials that chronicle the Syrian revolution, war, and refugee crisis exclusively through the stories of people who have lived them.