Amal Unbound, Aisha Saeed

My seventh grader absolutely loved this book, and he’s not alone, as it is a New York Times bestseller.

This present-day story is set in a Pakastani village, where 12-year-old Amal lives with her family and studies diligently in hopes of becoming a teacher. Her dream is put on hold when her mother has another baby and she has to stay home from school to help out. 

During an outing to the market, an outspoken Amal has an unfortunate run-in with Jawad Sahib, a ruthless member of the ruling Kahn family. As punishment, she is forced to live as a servant in his estate and work off her family’s previously accumulated debit. 

Amal refuses to accept her position as her final fate and vows to become free again. Her unwavering courage and commitment to bringing justice to those who have controlled the destiny of her fellow villagers for years creates an inspirational story both my son and I highly recommend.