This powerful novel is based on a true story. Set in Pakistan it depicts the story of the real Iqbal Masih who arrives at Hussain Khan's carpet factory. He becomes a sign of hope for the other children in the factory who have been sold into slavery. He is the one who tells them their family's debt will never be paid but gives them hope to dream about a future where they can be freed of the tyranny and injustices of their young lives. In 1994 Iqbal won an international award for his work raising awareness of child slavery and helping to free numerous children from their workplace prisons in Pakistan. Tragically he was murdered in 1995 aged about 13. The carpet mafia were suspected.
A sobering read, just a short book but one with strong messages that could be linked to study on child abuse and child labour laws. At the back of the book there are websites and book lists to further your reading. Admittedly this book is aimed at older children but I am sure our year 6's would be touched by the plight of these children.
I took this recommendation from a schoollib serve list of books of children from different cultures .
Cathy M
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