Milloo's Mind: The Story of Maryam Faruqi, Trailblazer for Women's Education

Maryam Faruqi was the founder of the Happy Home Schools, which provided education to thousands of girls in Pakistan at a time when girls weren't encouraged to go to school. This biography by her granddaughter, Milloo, highlights Maryam's determination and the importance of gender equity in education. The detailed art invites readers to linger over each page, evoking a strong sense of place. Milloo lives in a time when school is considered unnecessary for girls, but she courageously dreams of becoming a teacher and eventually opens a school in her house and more schools around Karachi, Pakistan, fulfilling her dreams.

Format: Hardback
Length: 40 pages
Publication date: 02 March 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Inc

From the author of the acclaimed Lailahs Lunchbox and Unsettled comes a captivating picture book biography that delves into the remarkable life of Maryam Faruqi, the visionary founder of the Happy Home Schools. At a time when girls were often discouraged from pursuing education, Maryam's unwavering dedication and commitment to providing quality education to thousands of girls across Pakistan left an indelible mark on the nation.

The prose in this book is filled with a powerful sense of determination and the profound importance of gender equity in education. Through vivid and detailed illustrations, readers are invited to immerse themselves in the world of Maryam and her schools. Each page is a tapestry of collaged outfits and patterns that evoke a strong sense of place, transporting readers to the vibrant streets of Karachi, Pakistan.

The author of this biography is Maryam's granddaughter, creating a personal and inspiring tale that resonates with readers of all ages. The book seamlessly weaves together Maryam's life story with the broader social and political context of Pakistan during the 20th century. It sheds light on the challenges faced by women and girls in a society that often prioritized male education, and showcases Maryam's unwavering resilience and courage in the face of adversity.

Perfect for fans of Malala's Magic Pencil and She Persisted!, this book offers a captivating and empowering narrative that will inspire young readers to pursue their dreams and break barriers. Milloo, the protagonist of the story, lives in a time when school is considered unnecessary for girls. However, Milloo possesses a deep passion for learning and a strong belief in the transformative power of education. Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks, Milloo never loses sight of her educational goals.

Through her determination and resilience, Milloo overcomes the obstacles placed in her path. She courageously dreams of becoming a teacher, but her parents, influenced by societal norms, tell her that she has had enough school. Heartbroken but undeterred, Milloo finds innovative ways to continue her education, graduating high school and college with honors. Even when faced with the disapproval of her husband, who urges her to stay home, Milloo refuses to let circumstances hinder her pursuit of education.

Determined to fulfill her dreams, Milloo opens a school in her house and later expands her educational initiatives to open more schools around Karachi, Pakistan. Her schools become havens of learning and empowerment for girls, providing them with the tools they need to thrive and pursue their aspirations. Maryam Faruqi's story is a testament to the power of education and the indomitable spirit of women who refuse to be silenced by societal expectations.

This picture book biography has been recognized with numerous accolades, including a starred review from Kirkus Reviews, which praised its "powerful prose" and "detailed art." It has also been recognized as a Bank Street Books Best Children's Book of the Year for Biography and Memoir, noted for outstanding merit (2024). Additionally, in 2025, it received the prestigious Georgia Children's Picturebook (Gr. K–4) Award, further testament to its excellence and impact.

In conclusion, Maryam Faruqi's story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of education and the indomitable spirit of women who refuse to be silenced by societal expectations. Through the captivating illustrations and inspiring narrative of this picture book biography, readers are invited to celebrate the achievements of Maryam and her Happy Home Schools, while also being inspired to pursue their own dreams and break barriers. This book is a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of education and the importance of gender equity in society.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 254 x 229 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780063056619