A Different Kind of Daughter

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What to expect

'Armed with a squash racket and enormous will, Maria Toorpakai has risen from the turmoil of tribal life in Pakistan to become not only a world-class athlete, but a true inspiration, a pioneer for millions of other women struggling to pave their own paths to autonomy, fulfilment and genuine personhood' Khaled Hosseini, author of The Kite Runner

Maria Toorpakai Wazir has lived her life disguised as a boy, defying the Taliban, in order to pursue her love of sport. Coming second in a national junior weightlifting event for boys, Maria decided to put her future in her own hands by going in disguise. When she discovered squash and was easily beating all the boys, life became more dangerous.

Heart-stopping and profoundly moving, Maria shares the story of her long road and eventual triumph, pursuing the sport she loved, defying death threats and following her dream.

Critics Review

  • It’s hard enough to become the best in the world at anything. It’s even harder when people want to kill you just for trying.

    Mary Carillo - NBC Sports

  • A vivid personal account of a courageous young woman standing up to one of the world’s most oppressive theocracies

    Kirkus Reviews

  • Beyond Brave

    Sunday Express

  • A remarkably vivid book

    Herald Scotland

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