FINDING MY WAY
By Malala Yousafzai
Publisher: Atria
The Nobel laureate describes private difficulties she encountered after the Taliban’s attack on her life thrust her into public life.
Review by By The Books Reviewer
Malala Yousafzai's latest memoir, "Finding My Way," is a candid and unvarnished exploration of her journey from a global symbol of resilience to a young woman grappling with the complexities of adulthood. Unlike her previous works, this book delves into the personal struggles and triumphs that have shaped her life beyond the public eye.
Yousafzai's narrative is refreshingly human, shedding the saintly image often projected onto her. She recounts her experiences at Oxford University, where she navigated the typical challenges of student life—forming friendships, experiencing first love, and confronting academic pressures. These anecdotes are not just relatable but also serve to dismantle the pedestal upon which she has been placed. As noted by The New York Times, she finds a "dynamic and surprising new voice" in this memoir. ([simonandschuster.com](https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Finding-My-Way/Malala-Yousafzai/9781668054277?utm_source=openai))
The memoir does not shy away from the darker aspects of her journey. Yousafzai candidly discusses her struggles with PTSD, the weight of being a global icon, and the online vitriol she faces. These revelations are both poignant and unsettling, highlighting the immense pressure she endures. The Irish Times emphasizes her profound disgust at the abandonment of Afghan women and girls, making for some of the strongest passages in the book. ([irishtimes.com](https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/review/2025/10/28/finding-my-way-by-malala-yousafzai-a-remarkable-journey/?utm_source=openai))
However, the memoir is not without its shortcomings. At times, the focus on trivial college experiences and social escapades feels indulgent and detracts from the more substantial themes of the book. While these moments humanize Yousafzai, they can also come across as self-indulgent, potentially alienating readers seeking deeper insights into her activism and the global issues she champions.
Despite these flaws, "Finding My Way" is a compelling read that offers a nuanced portrait of a young woman striving to define herself on her own terms. It is a testament to the strength it takes to be unapologetically oneself in the face of overwhelming expectations.
Final recommendation: Read with caution. While the memoir provides valuable insights into Yousafzai's personal growth, some readers may find the focus on mundane college experiences less engaging.
Recommendation: Read with caution.
written on: 10/30/2025