Now a Netflix film starring and directed by Chiwetel Ejiofor, this is a gripping memoir of survival and perseverance about the heroic young inventor who brought electricity to his Malawian village. When a terrible drought struck William Kamkwamba's tiny village in Malawi, his family lost all of the season's crops, leaving them with nothing to eat and nothing to sell. William began to explore science books in his village library, looking for a solution. There, he came up with the idea that would change his family's life forever: he could build a windmill. Made out of scrap metal and old bicycle parts, William's windmill brought electricity to his home and helped his family pump the water they needed to farm the land. Retold for a younger audience, this exciting memoir shows how, even in a desperate situation, one boy's brilliant idea can light up the world. Complete with photographs, illustrations, and an epilogue that will bring readers up to date on William's story, this is the perfect edition to read and share with the whole family.
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About the author
William Kamkwamba, Bryan Mealer
Author
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
by William Kamkwamba, Bryan Mealer
Books Like The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
If you're looking for books similar to The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, here are some recommendations based on themes, tone, and narrative style.
Educated
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A remarkable autobiography about a woman who grows up in a strict, isolated family and ultimately pursues education against all odds. Similar to William's journey, Tara uses learning as a path to personal transformation. She overcomes significant family and cultural barriers to achieve academic success. Her story highlights the power of self-education and personal determination.
Long Walk to Freedom
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An autobiography about overcoming oppression and fighting for social justice in South Africa. Mandela's journey demonstrates extraordinary resilience and commitment to positive change. Like William, he uses education and innovation as tools for transformation. The book shows how individual courage can create systemic change.
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A powerful memoir of a young girl's courage in standing up for education in Pakistan. Like William, Malala overcomes tremendous obstacles through determination and intelligence. She fights against oppression and advocates for educational rights for girls. Her story demonstrates the transformative power of knowledge and personal resilience.
Mountains Beyond Mountains
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A biography of Dr. Paul Farmer, who transforms healthcare in rural Haiti through innovative solutions. Like William, Farmer uses creativity and determination to solve complex problems in resource-limited settings. He demonstrates how individual passion can create significant community change. The book highlights the power of compassion and practical problem-solving.
Becoming
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A memoir about personal growth, education, and community empowerment. Michelle's story reflects William's journey of using knowledge to create opportunities. She demonstrates how education and determination can overcome societal barriers. The book emphasizes personal agency and the importance of continuous learning.
Outliers
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A book exploring the factors that contribute to extraordinary success. Gladwell examines how individual determination and unique circumstances create opportunities. His analysis resonates with William's innovative spirit. The book provides insights into how creativity and persistence can lead to remarkable achievements.
Born a Crime
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A memoir about growing up in South Africa during apartheid, showcasing resilience and creativity in challenging circumstances. Trevor uses humor and intelligence to navigate complex social dynamics. Like William, he demonstrates how ingenuity and education can overcome systemic barriers. His story is a testament to human adaptability and hope.
Shoe Dog
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A memoir about Nike's founder and his journey of entrepreneurial persistence. Phil's story mirrors William's in showcasing innovation and determination. He overcomes numerous obstacles through creative problem-solving and unwavering commitment. The book illustrates how passion and resilience can lead to extraordinary achievements.
The Glass Castle
Jeannette Walls
A memoir about growing up in challenging family circumstances and using education as a path to transformation. Jeannette's story parallels William's in demonstrating resilience and creativity. She overcomes significant obstacles through intelligence and determination. The book highlights the power of personal initiative.
The Alchemist
Paulo Coelho
A philosophical novel about pursuing dreams and overcoming obstacles. The story parallels William's journey of transformation through determination and creativity. It emphasizes the importance of following one's passion and believing in personal potential. The book offers inspirational insights about perseverance and innovation.
The Last Lecture
Randy Pausch
An inspiring book about achieving childhood dreams and overcoming seemingly impossible challenges. Randy shares profound life lessons about perseverance and innovation. His approach to problem-solving resonates with William's inventive spirit. The book emphasizes the importance of creativity and determination in facing life's obstacles.
The Road from Coorain
Jill Ker Conway
A memoir about growing up in the Australian outback and overcoming significant challenges through education. Like William, Jill uses learning as a pathway to personal transformation. She navigates complex social and environmental obstacles with intelligence and determination. Her story emphasizes the power of perseverance.
Wild
Cheryl Strayed
A memoir about personal transformation through an extraordinary journey of self-discovery. Cheryl's story demonstrates resilience and personal growth through challenging circumstances. Like William, she uses determination to overcome significant obstacles. The book emphasizes the power of individual courage and adaptability.
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Adam Braun
A story about using entrepreneurship to create social change and educational opportunities globally. Adam's journey parallels William's in showing how small ideas can create massive impact. He demonstrates how individual initiative can transform communities. The book emphasizes the power of education and social entrepreneurship.
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