Fifteen-year-old Parvana has rebuilt her life after being reunited with her mother and sisters. But suspicion and fear towards the education of women have put them all in danger. When Parvana is held at an American army base in Afghanistan, suspected of being a terrorist, she must protect her family at all costs.

She heard the woman's boots walk away down the hall. She stood and waited, listening hard to see if the boots would come back.

When she was sure she was alone, the girl finally spoke.

'Yes,' she whispered. 'My name is Parvana.'

Fifteen-year-old Parvana has built a new life with her family, and it's the life she's always dreamt of. She's learning in a real school, and teaching too.

But this is Afghanistan, and the war is far from over. Many still view the education and freedom of women with suspicion and fear. And that means Parvana - and her family - are in danger.

When she's taken away by American soldiers, suspected of being a terrorist, Parvana must find a way to protect her family, and keep her hope alive.

[Parvana] represents those millions of girls all around the world who have no voice of their own.

The story feels realistic and the writing moves at a gallop

This is a compelling and riveting page-turner that is harrowing, inspiring and thought provoking throughout

... ideal for older readers to gain some insight into the complexities of life in Afghanistan.

I really felt Parvana's sense of danger and how she felt about being separated from her family. I think this book is suitable for all age groups although its topic is quite serious.