Amal Unbound

‘A wonderfully uplifting tale of courage and the fight for justice. Saeed has created a compelling story that shines a light on a part of our world that has been ignored for far too long.’

Zana Fraillon

‘A beautiful and moving story about indentured servitude, economic class, family, resistance and ultimately—freedom. Amal’s story and the many people we meet in it are so thoughtfully and deeply rendered, I remain haunted by their struggles and changed by their journeys.’

Jacqueline Woodson

‘Saeed’s eloquent, suspenseful, eye-opening tale offers a window into the contemporary practice of indentured servitude and makes a compelling case for the power of girls’ education to transform systemic injustice.’

Publishers Weekly

‘Inspired by Malala Yousafzai, who advocates for women’s rights in Pakistan, this is a compelling tale of one girl’s determination to make the world a fairer place.’

Booktrust UK

‘Saeed’s rich, complex middle grade debut takes a nuanced look at the socioeconomics of modern Pakistan while sharing an empowering message about family, literacy, and culture.’

School Library Journal

‘A Pakistani girl’s dreams of an education dissolve when she is forced into indentured servitude…Amal’s passion for learning, love for her family, and despair at her circumstances are evoked with sympathy and clarity. Inspired by Malala Yousafzai and countless unknown girls like her, Saeed’s timely and stirring middle-grade debut is a celebration of resistance and justice.’

Kirkus Reviews

‘Readers will find that a little perseverance and a heart filled with hope can eventually surmount a harsh reality. Saeed fills her prose with lush descriptions of Pakistani life, while still managing to connect with readers whose surroundings and experience will be starkly different. Hand to any reader who struggles with definitive gender roles, norms, and expectations held in place by societal structures.’

Booklist

‘Will evoke empathy for all those around the world like Amal, who are not guaranteed freedom or education. An inspired read for all.’

School Library Connection