If you’re looking for an inspiring picture book for Women’s History Month, I have the perfect pick for you today! Milloo’s Mind: The Story of Maryam Faruqi, Trailblazer for Women’s Education by Reem Faruqi and Hoda Hadadi tells the story of the author’s courageous grandmother, Maryam Faruqi, founder of Happy Home Schools in Karachi, Pakistan.

Beginning in Maryam’s childhood as she attended school herself, Milloo’s Mind follows Maryam (affectionately called Milloo by her father) as she realizes she wants to become a teacher. Milloo remains determined and goes on to graduate highschool and college, though it was uncommon for girls to receive such an education. And she was just getting started on her journey to becoming an educator.

I don’t want to give away the whole plot, but I will say that I absolutely adored this book! Reem Faruqi’s perfect pacing combined with Hodad Hadadi’s unique intricate artwork makes for a wonderful reading experience.

With an informative Author’s Note, Milloo’s Mind would be a fantastic addition to classrooms and school libraries everywhere. It’s also a wonderful selection to add Pakistani and Muslim representation to International Women’s Day ciriculums, projects, and read alouds.

Milloo’s Mind officially released yesterday, so be sure to grab your copy today! You can find it wherever books are sold including Bookshop, Amazon, and your favorite indie bookstore. And don’t forget you can always request a copy at your local library if they haven’t already ordered it.

Because this is a HarperCollins title, I would like to point out that Harper Collins workers have been on strike since 11/10/2022. You can help support the workers’ fight for fair wages by donating to the HarperCollins Union Strike Hardship Fund, signing the HarperCollins Strike Solidarity Open Letter, shopping the HarperCollins Union on Strike Bookshop, or boosting their message on Twitter @hcpunion.

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