Culture 1: International Literature - International Author

BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA:

Ellis, Deborah. 2000. THE BREADWINNER. Toronto: Groundwood Books. ISBN 0888994168

PLOT SUMMARY:

In this riveting look at a young girl’s struggles living in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, Deborah Ellis tells the story of eleven-year-old Parvana and her family as they try to survive after the unjustified arrest of Parvana’s father. Without a father, Parvana’s family is left with no means of providing for themselves because the women are forbidden from leaving their homes without a man to accompany them. Parvana must sacrifice her identity by disguising herself as a boy in order to make money and bring food to her family. While this plan is a success, this hurdle is just one of many obstacles that Parvana’s family must endure as they face violence, oppression, and the struggle for freedom and human rights.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:

THE BREADWINNER offers some key cultural markers that help root the story in the turbulent climate of Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Ellis lays the foundation for a realistic look at the extreme female oppression that exists in that region by comparing life before Taliban rule to life after Taliban control. Prior to Taliban rule, Parvana’s parents were educated and employed, and Parvana and her siblings played freely outside and attended school. Ellis does a good job of depicting the dramatic changes that occur after the Taliban gain control, leaving women and girls banished indoors. There are also several references to the violence and dangers that can be a part of daily life in that region. Parvana’s father lost part of his leg when the school he taught at was bombed, and Parvana’s older brother was killed by a land mine. The setting and environment are described thoroughly enough throughout the book to give the reader a context for the story as he/she plunges into the dramatic and fast-paced plot.

The characters of THE BREADWINNER are a major strength for the story. In particular, Parvana’s character is strong and instantly likeable, and she will serve as a courageous role model for girls everywhere. Despite her bravery and courage, Parvana is also easy to relate to. Her universal qualities add to the appeal of the book for all readers. Several cultural markers surrounding the characters in THE BREADWINNER are also noteworthy. For example, the clothing worn by the characters are authentic and described by name (chador, burqa, and shalwar kameez). Similarly, Ellis references common Afghan foods, such as nan and kebab, and she even describes the practice of eating “Afghan-style,” with a plastic cloth spread out on the floor for everyone to sit around. A glossary at the back of the book can enhance the reader’s understanding of these words. While the descriptions of the characters’ physical attributes and religious practices are scant, the reader is still left with a clear picture of who Parvana is and how her culture influences her life.

THE BREADWINNER is a great story for both adults and children, and the gripping plot and endearing characters will certainly draw the reader in. Pulling for Parvana to survive and overcome her struggles, the reader will be engaged with the story until the very end. This book is universal in its appeal while remaining true to the culture portrayed.

REVIEW EXCERPTS:

From BOOK REPORT (November/December 2001):
“When Parvana's father is arrested and taken to prison, her mother falls into a deep depression, and the children are left to fend for themselves. Parvana's hair is cut and she is dressed as a boy so she can move freely through Kabul. This story is great for history students, helping them better understand Afghanistan's turbulent history and the current plight of Afghan women. Although simply written, this tale contains some graphic scenes for mature readers. It also presents a lesson in philanthropy, because all of the book's royalties go to support the education of Afghan girls who remain in Pakistani refugee camps. Recommended.”

CONNECTIONS:

* Invite students to seek out the sequel to this story, PARVANA’S JOURNEY by Deborah Ellis.

* Parvana’s favorite subject in school prior to being banned from school was Afghan history. Encourage students to find out more about Afghan history for themselves as a research project. THE BREADWINNER includes a map of Afghanistan and the surrounding regions at the front of the book that might be useful for completing a project such as this.

* Parvana and her friend, Shauzia, plan to meet again in 20 years. Students may enjoy fast-forwarding 20 years into the future to create their own ending for the story. Will Parvana and Shauzia reunite? What will Parvana’s life be like at that time? What happened to Parvana’s family?

* Since all of the royalties from this book are donated to Women for Women in Afghanistan, students might be interested in visiting the website for this charitable organization at http://www.womenforwomen.org/index.php. This could lead to a great discussion on humanitarian aid and ways to help people from around the world.