Monday, March 28, 2022

Book Review - Fearless: The Story of Daphne Caruana Galizia, Defender of Free Speech; Gattaldo


Author & Illustrator: Gattaldo  - Candlewick Press 2021


Daphne Caruana Galizia grew up on the Island of Malta. From an early age she dreamed of being a writer so she could share stories about her country.  She loved reading and through books she learned to be a free thinker. Daphne lived her dream; she grew up, spoke up and became a powerful, courageous journalist.  Daphne and her friends saw bad things happening in her country, she believed peaceful protest was important and was even arrested for it.  She married, had three children and encouraged her children to fight for justice as well.  She started writing for a newspaper and was not afraid to publish the truth. She was threatened, her dog was killed to send a message but, that just empowered her to spread the truth all the more.  

Daphne Caruana Galizia (1964-2017) was killed in 2017 when a bomb placed under her car exploded. She inspired and encouraged others to stand up for free speech by keeping others informed about the truth.  This book was written and illustrated by her good friend.

What a powerful book, another story I was not aware of, the message is powerful and the images are so well done as well.  I love how Candlewick Press through the books that they have decided to publish are spreading powerful messages to young children about the importance of standing up for one's beliefs.  This book is targeted at grades 2-4 (ages 7-9). Beautifully done.

Rating - 5/5 stars

Note: This book was sent to me by the publisher in exchange for my unbiased review.




 


11 comments:

  1. I love reading stories of people who do what is right, despite the possibilities of terrible consequences.

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    1. Same here Deb. Children's books have really come a long way over the years and I love the direction I see. Hopefully, we will see more compassionate adults in future generations.

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  2. I had no idea. Glad her story is being told, and in a way that can hopefully inspire young people

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    1. Same her Greg, it's great to see stories like these being told.

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  3. What an inspiring story and how great that it is being presented to kids.

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    1. That's exactly how I felt. I wonder how many more of these strong women stories I 've missed?

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  4. Gosh I didn't know about Daphne but how sad she is no longer with us! A courageous journalist no doubt.

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    1. I had never heard of her either and this is the second children's book in a few months about an amazing woman who I had never heard of. The other book was: Sanctuary, Kip Tiernan & Rosie's Place: The Nation's First Shelter for Women; Christine McDonnell

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  5. I know nothing about Malta so it's wonderful that this book exists about an incredible woman and her country.

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