Malala's Magic Pencil: questions to ask and activities to try
Malala wished for a magic pencil to change the world, then found her voice. Malala's Magic Pencil is Malala Yousafzai's own story for young readers.
What age is it for? Malala's Magic Pencil is best for ages 5–9. Good for: Speaking up for what's right.
Malala's Magic Pencil (Malala Yousafzai and Kerascoët)
- Age
- 5-9
- Best for
- Speaking up for what's right
Read it and talk about why going to school matters, and what your child would change with a magic pencil.
What it helps with
- Speaking up for others
- The right to education
- Courage
- Real-life heroes
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “What did Malala wish for?”
- “What would she draw?”
- “What did she notice about girls’ schooling?”
- “How did she speak up?”
- “What happened?”
- “What would you change?”
5-minute activities to try together
Magic pencil
Draw what you'd change in the world with a magic pencil.
Speak up
Write a short speech about something unfair.
Free printables: Malala's Magic Pencil worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History (Vashti Harrison)
- Best for
- Bold Black women who changed the world
- Age
- 5-8
We Are All Born Free (Amnesty International)
- Best for
- Human rights, explained simply
- Age
- 6-9
Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World (Kate Pankhurst)
- Best for
- Brave women who changed the world
- Age
- 5-9
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.