Shahana
Author: Rosanne Hawke
Author: Lyn White
Author: Rosanne Hawke
Author: Lyn White
Book 1 in the Through My Eyes series
Pages: 216
Published: 2013
Age: 11+
'Open your eyes. We will not hurt you.'
The boy quietens; his eyes open.
'Where are you from?'
The boy stares at them both; then says, 'Who will you tell?'
Shahana lives alone with her young brother in the shadow of the Line of Control, the border patrolled by Pakistani and Indian soldiers that divides Kashmir in two. Life is hard, but Shahana ekes out a living with her beautiful embroidery. Then she finds a boy lying unconscious near the border. Zahid is from across the Line of Control, and Shahana takes a terrible risk by sheltering him. But how can she give Zahid up to the authorities when she knows he'll be imprisoned - or worse?
Children's Peace Literature Award Recommended Reading (2013)
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About the Through My Eyes Series
Books in series order
Reading age: 11+ years
Through My Eyes is a moving and engagingly educational series which invites young readers to enter the fragile worlds of children living in contemporary war zones. Every day in an increasing number of countries, children are desperately trying to survive as their families and their whole way of life is destroyed by war. This new series is a tribute to such children and the themes of courage, determination, triumph and perseverance will inspire, challenge and engage young readers, creating greater cross cultural understanding and informed empathy.
Several stories set in the World Wars have been written for younger readers but very little has been published about more contemporary conflicts and those within Asian settings. War affects the old and the young, the rich and the poor, the boy or girl and these stories will appeal to all readers.
A portion of the proceeds (up to $5000) from sales of this series will be donated to UNICEF; and educational support materials for this series have been produced with their assistance.
Note: Readers who enjoy this series may also like the two companion series: Through My Eyes: Natural Disaster Zones, and Through My Eyes: Australian Disaster Zones.