JENNI L. WALSH
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She Dared books
The She Dared books features true stories from heroic women who, at a young age, accomplished daring feats of perseverance and bravery. The first book profiles activist Malala Yousafzai (who, after being shot by the Taliban, became an advocate for education), and the second surfer Bethany Hamilton (who lost her arm in a shark attack).

Look for the She Dared books online, at book stores, and at Scholastic Book Fairs!
 
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Malala Yousafzai

Malala Yousafzai always knew she wanted to become a doctor someday. But a new extremist group in her home country of Pakistan wanted to stop girls from going to school.

Malala knew what was important, and so she spoke out. Even after she was attacked in the street for her views, she persisted.

Learn about Malala's incredible recovery and her journey to becoming a world-famous advocate of girls' rights and education -- and the youngest ever Nobel Prize winner.

Meet Malala. Get inspired (Add on Goodreads)

​
Buy on 
Amazon 
| Barnes & Noble | IndieBound | Bookshop.org 
​
Order
 an Autographed Book: Newtown Bookshop | Commonplace Reader
​
Gr 3-6–​ ​"Walsh tackles difficult subject matter, such as extremism and violence, in an age-appropriate manner...VERDICT A solid pick for middle grade readers." - School Library Journal, Brittany McMahon, Westernport Elementary School, MD
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"In this engaging and informative book, Jenni L Walsh distills Malala Yousafzai's complicated, violent history into one that will neither scare nor intimidate young readers. It introduces the global refugee crisis and the violence that exists around the world alongside Malala's example of the difference one person can make. Walsh doesn't sugarcoat, but her book makes an excellent case for hope and working towards a better future. A wonderful resource for young girls (and boys!)." - Vivienne Woodward, Head House Books

"The book provides an excellent account of Malala's experiences appropriate for a younger audience. The book reveals Malala's emotional experiences, as well as the facts of her life and the salient aspects of her community, society and country. For younger readers, though, the book is less detailed about the more violent and extreme sexism inherent in Malala's world." - Leslie Finkel, Wellington Square Bookshop

“What an amazing book for our younger readers! Jenni L. Walsh inspires us with a fascinating telling of Malala’s powerful story of persistence! A must read for the middle grade audience.” - Kathy Morrison, Newtown Bookshop

"This inspiring book tells Malala's extraordinary story in a way that young readers will be able to identify with and understand."  - Sally, Children's Book World

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​A 2021-2022 Young Hoosier Book Award Nominee
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Bethany Hamilton

Growing up in Hawaii, Bethany Hamilton loved to surf. But one day, she was in her favorite place, out on the waves, when a tiger shark suddenly attacked. Thirteen-year-old Bethany lost her left arm.

As she fought to recover, Bethany wondered: Would she ever surf again?

Follow Bethany as she got back on her board and fearlessly chased her surfing dreams. With the strength of her family and faith behind her, Bethany knew she could become not only a professional athlete, but a champion and a role model.

Meet Bethany. Get inspired. (Add on Goodreads)


Buy on 
Amazon 
| Barnes & Noble | IndieBound | Bookshop.org 
​
Order
 an Autographed Book: Newtown Bookshop | Commonplace Reader
​
"While engaging text puts readers in the life-or-death moment, the book focuses more on Bethany’s recovery ... Readers see Bethany’s ultimate test of perseverance when she competes in her first pro competition with her self-nicknamed 'Stumpy.' [An] inspirational journey." - Booklist

Gr 3-5–​ ​"... powerful, depicting the drama of Hamilton’s experiences and demonstrating the impact of her Christian faith, her mental toughness, and her family’s support." - School Library Journal​, Sarah Reid, Four County Library System, NY​

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  • Home
  • About
  • Books
    • Adult >
      • Sonora
      • Ace, Marvel, Spy: A Novel of Alice Marble
      • Unsinkable
      • The Call of the Wrens
      • A Betting Woman: A Novel of Madame Moustache
      • Side by Side: A Novel of Bonnie and Clyde
      • Becoming Bonnie: A Novel
    • Middle Grade >
      • Outlook Unclear
      • The Bug Bandits
      • Operation: Happy
      • Over and Out
      • By the Light of Fireflies: A Novel of War Hero Sybil Ludington
      • I Am Defiance: A Novel of World War II
      • Hettie and the London Blitz: A World War II Survival Story
      • She Dared books
  • News
  • School Visits
  • Events
  • Contact