Have you readThree Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson? It is a non-fiction account of his experiences as a former mountain climber who has now spent 16 years as a full-time humanitarian. Greg Mortenson builds school for "desperately poor children" in remote regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan. At the same time, Mr. Mortenson works hard at convincing the village elders of the importance of equal education for girls. This book is definitely a "must read" for all.
Currently Greg and Amira, his 12 year-old daughter are on a two-week tour introducing two new books co-authored by Mortenson: a children's picture book entitled Listen to the Wind and illustrated by Susan L. Roth as well as a young reader's edition of Three Cups of Tea. This young reader's edition will be great for middle-school kids to discover for themselves the inspiring story of Greg Mortenson's challenging work in third world countries.
The Mortenson's daughter, Amira, is a seventh grader at the Headwaters Academy in Bozeman, Montana which is the family's home base. Between semesters, Amira has joined her Dad in his travels. She, too, is speaking to school groups, civic groups, bookstore audiences, etc. about Pennies for Peace, an initiative that involves kids' contributing to schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan as they study these countries they are helping.
Amira believes it is important that kids know that they can make a difference, no matter how young they are and no matter how little they can contribute. Last year American children raised more than $900,000 in pennies! That money is primarily for books, pencils and other school supplies in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Personally, I am so impressed with Greg Mortenson, his family and his committment to educating children (and especially girls) in Pakistan and Afghanistan. His entire family is making significant sacrifices for his humanitarian work in those countries. In a future article, I will write more about about his current work as well as the involvement of his wife and son.
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