Parvana’s Journey by Deborah Ellis is the epic sequel to a title that may be more familiar, The Breadwinner. This story tells the heartbreaking story of Parvana, a 13-year-old girl living under the Taliban rule in a war-torn Afghanistan.
In the follow up to The Breadwinner, Parvana’s father has died, and she takes off on a dangerous journey in search of her mother and siblings. Along her way, she meets other children who have been scarred by the violence of war, and together they make a family, relying on each other to survive. They face so many obstacles; physical, mental, and emotional, but show strength in the face of these hardships.
I first read Parvana’s Journey when I was about 10 years old, and it left a lasting impact on me. Parvana’s life was so vastly different from mine—she couldn’t attend school and had to provide for herself and the other children in her care. The story opened my eyes to the realities of life for many around the world, sparking my curiosity about how others live during war. Re-reading the book as an adult, I’m even more struck by Parvana’s resilience in the face of this unimaginable adversity. Her strength is inspiring, but the novel also serves as a reminder of the effects of war on civilians, especially the most vulnerable: children.
Parvana’s Journey is a really powerful read that offers a glimpse into the lives of those affected by conflict. It serves as a reminder to me, of the importance of empathy, courage, and perseverance.
Your review of Parvana’s Journey is thoughtful and impactful, capturing the strength and resilience that define Parvana’s story. The reflection on how the novel influenced you as a child and still resonates in adulthood emphasizes the timeless power of Ellis’s work. You convey both the emotional weight of Parvana’s journey and the empathy the story evokes, making this a compelling invitation to read a book that highlights the resilience of children in the face of war. Well done!
Love this review on Parvana’s Journey. Your reflection as a child is relevant to so many people around the world, as a lot of us cannot even begin to understand or fathom the horrors and tragedies of war, especially the effects it has on a child. Your review highlights how impactful this story is, and the emotional weight it holds, making it an enticing read to pick up! Thank you for your observations and I look forward to reading.