Parvana's father is arrested and taken away by the Taliban soldiers. Under Taliban law, women and girls are not allowed to leave the house on their own. Parvana, her mother, and sisters must stay inside. Four days later, the food runs out. They face starvation. So Parvana must pretend to be a boy to save her family. It is a dangerous plan, but their only chance. In fear she goes out - and witnesses the horror of landmines, and the bruality of the Taliban. She suffers beatings and the desperation of trying to survive. But even in despair lies hope
The Breadwinner Series
This series chronicles the lives of young girls forced to navigate harsh realities in war-torn regions and under oppressive regimes. The narratives highlight the extraordinary resilience, courage, and resourcefulness these girls exhibit as they take on immense responsibilities for their families. These are poignant tales of endurance, friendship, and hope against overwhelming adversity.
Recommended Reading Order
Rollercoasters: Breadwinner Reader
- 176 pages
- 7 hours of reading
Rollercoasters novels are popular because of the wide selection of fiction, appealing to girls, boys and mixed-ability classes. The Breadwinner is ideal for Year 7 or mixed-ability classes
Parvana's Journey
- 176 pages
- 7 hours of reading
The second book in The Breadwinner series by award-winning author, Deborah Ellis, tells the story of Parvana, travelling alone across a war-ridden Afghanistan in an attempt to find her family.
Mud City
- 160 pages
- 6 hours of reading
Shauzia is Parvana's friend from The Breadwinner. Now Shauzia has fled from Afghanistan, to a refugee camp in Pakistan. She dreams of getting away from the refugee camp and travelling to France. Escape is not so easy. But Shauzia is determined to find a new future for herself. This is a story on the human situation in Afghanistan.
My Name Is Parvana
- 240 pages
- 9 hours of reading
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.