Muzoon: A Syrian Refugee Speaks Out

Muzoon Almellehan · Wendy Pearlman

May 2023 · Penguin Random House Audio · Narrated by Lara Sawalha

About this audiobook

“Muzoon takes readers on her perilous and ultimately hopeful journey from refugee child to advocate for others in need.”
—Malala Yousafzai, bestselling author and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize

When her family had to flee Syria, 14-year-old Muzoon was told to pack only the most essential things—and so she packed her schoolbooks.

This is the inspiring true story of a Syrian refugee who fought hard for what she needed—and grew into one of the world's leading advocates for education.

This eye-opening memoir tells the story of a young girl's life in Syria, her family's wrenching decision to leave their home, and the upheaval of life in a refugee camp. Though her life had utterly changed, one thing remained the same. She knew that education was the key to a better future—for herself, and so that she could help her country. She went from tent to tent in the camp, trying to convince other kids, especially girls, to come to school. And her passion and dedication soon had people calling her the "Malala of Syria."
     Muzoon has grown into an internationally recognized advocate for refugees, for education, and for the rights of girls and women, and is now a UNICEF goodwill ambassador—the first refugee to play that role.
     Muzoon's story is absolutely riveting and will inspire young readers to use their own voices and stand up for what they believe in.

About the author

MUZOON ALMELLEHAN is an internationally recognized activist for education, refugees, and the rights of girls and women. She is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, the first with official refugee status. She was named one of Glamour magazine's Women of the Year and one of Teen Vogue's 21 Under 21.

Muzoon has spoken in front of the United Nations General Assembly and at the G20 Summit in Germany, among several other distinguished audiences, and presented a TEDxTeen Talk called "The Future of Syria Depends on One Thing." Angela Merkel, Bill Clinton, and Malala Yousafzai are among the supporters of Muzoon and her important work.

Muzoon now lives in Newcastle, England, with her family, and is a graduate of Newcastle University.

WENDY PEARLMAN is a professor of political science at Northwestern University who has written four books. Wendy’s book We Crossed a Bridge and It Trembled: Voices from Syria is a collection of firsthand testimonials that chronicle the Syrian revolution, war, and refugee crisis exclusively through the stories of people who have lived them.