Much of the narrative revolves around Malala’s struggle against societal inclinations. She is a girl in a man’s world. Around her, people expect girls to leave school early or not attend at all. Instead of fitting into the mold, Malala fights for her right to learn.

Similarly, her entire family can be looked at as an “individual” against society. They are one group looking to go against the grain. Her father struggled against what was expected of him as a teenager, which did not include school. He puts himself through school and beats the odds of opening his own school, particularly when he takes on the system of bribery and unjust payments needed to open and maintain a school. He is one against many.

Malala’s father instills the same fighting spirit in her. Despite societal pressure to stop going to school, Malala pointedly remarks the Taliban can take the books and pens, but they cannot take away her thoughts. She continues to think, to question, and to learn.

Malala and her family find little support during the days of the Taliban and the military operation. Even immediately before she is shot, Malala and her family receive support only from outside sources, including the media.