The Red Pencil

Book cover for The Red Pencil by Andrea Davis Pinkney
Author

Andrea Davis Pinkney

Illustrator

Shane W. Evans

Book Summary

“Amira, look at me,” Muma insists.
She collects both my hands in hers.
“The Janjaweed attack without warning.
If ever they come–run.”

Finally, Amira is twelve. Old enough to wear a toob, old enough for new responsibilities. And maybe old enough to go to school in Nyala–Amira’s one true dream.

But life in her peaceful Sudanese village is shattered when the Janjaweed arrive. The terrifying attackers ravage the town and unleash unspeakable horrors. After she loses nearly everything, Amira needs to dig deep within herself to find the strength to make the long journey–on foot–to safety at a refugee camp. Her days are tough at the camp, until the gift of a simple red pencil opens her mind–and all kinds of possibilities.

Sudan, Refugee, Persistence, Perseverance, Muslim, Islam

Age Range
Ages 12+ (grades 8 and up), Ages 9 to 12 (grades 4-7)
ISBN #
9780316247825
Publisher
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Book Category
North Africa & Middle East