Amelia Fattore

Amelia Fattore

Three Cups of Tea

Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin

Inspirational Non-Fiction

Just Right

I’m on page 147

1. What is going on in your book right now?

“A village called New York has been bombed,” (123) one man tells Greg while he is visiting Pakistan. While Greg was hard at work creating schools, Al-Qaeda personnel attacked the highly populated American city New York. Over the next few days, Greg’s progress is brought to a stand still. He realizes, he may become a target due to his image, in fact, the United States strongly cautioned Americans to leave Pakistan immediately. At this point in time, he seriously considered abandoning his large dream for the people of Pakistan. He realizes that he has committed himself this mission; selling almost all of his possessions, spending months on end in Pakistan and more. Though he may place himself in line of danger, he decides to preserve and stay in Pakistan.

2. How do you feel so far about this book?

I REALLY enjoy this book. It is very motivational and inspirational. Three Cups of Tea depicts how one person’s actions can actually change the world. The quote, “Proof that one ordinary person, with the right combination of character and determination, really can change the world.” These few words sum up what this 200-page book is teaching. I believe this is a message that is easily “thrown out” as people do not believe that is possible.

3. What is a theme you have noticed in the book so far?

Dedication is a key and strong theme in Three Cups of Tea. Many obstacles have come in the way of Greg building schools in Pakistan. He was kidnapped, urged to leave after 9/11, faced financial problems, left his new wife and more. His dedication to this project shows how much he really cares about these people. I believe his incredible story would not have occurred if he did not have the amazing quality of dedication.

4. Who is your favorite character?

My favorite character is Shakeela, the daughter of the village chief of Hushe. She was the first woman to attend high school in her village. This opportunity was made possibly through Greg’s donation. I believe everyone should receive an education regardless of their beliefs, race, gender, etc. It is very unfortunate that only boys receive education in Pakistan. Shakeela going to school was a very happy occasion yet sad to think of all of the other girls who long to be educated.

5. Who is your least favorite character?

My least favorite character is Osama bin Laden. Although he is not directly part of Greg’s journey, he does influence it. When bin Laden’s group, Al-Qaeda, attacks the United States on September 11, 2001, chaos begins to stir in Pakistan. The United States urges Americans to flee the country in order to secure their safety. I feel that bin Laden should never have done such a horrible thing. He didn’t know but he jeopardized the chance for helpless children to receive a decent education – a once in a lifetime opportunity.

6. What do you believe will happen next?

I believe the book will end in a cliffhanger that makes the reader envision what his next steps, goals and dreams are for the people of Pakistan. I wish this book took you farther into his journeys as I feel as though this is the “tip of the iceberg.” Three Cups of Tea was originally published in 2006, I can imagine Greg Mortenson has been helping others in the mean time.