The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis

Ellis, D. (2000). The Breadwinner. Toronto, Ontario: Groundwood Books/Douglas & McIntyre.

Summary:

When her father is captured by the Taliban, 11 year old Parvana must pass as a boy in order to support her family. She works initially by selling goods, and then by collecting human bones. When Parvana’s sister intends to move away for her marriage, Parvana must come face to face with the realization that her family may be splitting forever. How can Parvana decide what is best for her while doing what is best for her family?

Advisory Information

-Themes:

a. Family Relationships: Parvana, Nooria and her mother and father have a relationship built upon obligations to each other. Parvana and her father initially help sell items to make money, while Nooria and her mother work at home.

b. Broken Families: Parvana, Nooria and their mother must learn how to survive when their father is taken from them.

c. War: War and invasion is a central theme to this novel. Parvana is constantly relating her life under the Taliban regime, and compares it to the way her life once was.

d. Coming of Age: Parvana must establish her own identity, step up and dress in her deceased brother’s clothing to help the rest of her family. She also begins to make her own decisions regarding the future of herself and her family.

-Age Recommendation:

I would recommend this book to intermediate level readers, aged 8 to 12.

-Other Information:

The author provides the reader with a short history of Afghanistan in her author’s note as well as a glossary of terms in the back.

Reaction:

I enjoyed reading The Breadwinner, I think it is a good introduction about different cultures especially from a western standpoint. However, Parvana as a character does seem a little too “westernized.” Parvana does have ideals that reflect more of a traditionally western stance, than say her sister Nooria or her mother. This is explained in that her parents were educated in Europe.