I've always been a daydreamer, and sometimes in lessons my mind would drift and I'd imagine that on the way home a terrorist might jump out and shoot me on those steps. I wondered what I would do. Maybe I'd take off my shoes and hit him, but then I'd think if I did that there would be no difference between me and a terrorist. It would be better to plead, 'OK, shoot me, but first listen to me. What you are doing is wrong. I'm not against you personally, I just want every girl to go to school.'

Why is it, that giving guns is so easy, but giving books is so hard?

My family and I are heartbroken after hearing the news that more than 100 innocent children and teachers have lost their lives...

I think that the best way to solve problems and to fight against war is through dialogue. For me the best way to fight against terrorism and extremism... just a simple thing: educate the next generation.

I tell my story, not because it is unique, but because it is not. It is the story of many girls.

I am not here to speak against the Taliban. I'm here to speak up for the right of every child.

The content of a book holds the power of education and it is with this power that we can shape our future and change lives.