This is a remarkable story about an ordinary man who begins with a passion for mountaineering and ends up being known by the downtrodden Pakastani villagers as a “saintly” infidel. Over the course of years, he builds 55 secular schools to offer education to a population of children who would otherwise have gone without.

I have to admit that I resisted reading this book. I thought that it would be just another book about Muslim life and how shocking that can be to our Western ideals. But on the urging of a friend, I picked up the book and braced myself for another Muslim tragedy.

What I found was very different. This is the story of an ordinary man who is no more equipped to change the world than you or me, but through a series of trials, errors, determination, promises and character, achieves a feat worthy of the Nobel Peace Prize.

What I loved most about this book is the reminder of how the efforts of one person can change the landscape of history. This is a truly inspiring story. After 331 pages, you’ll close the book and wonder to yourself, “Is there something that I can be doing to be useful in the world?”

Be prepared, though, I don’t think the book is very well-written, but you’ll get over that as you marvel over the experiences that the “hero” undergoes.

Rating: 5 — Would miss your favorite TV program to read.

Rating Scale:

1. — Sits on your bedside table gathering dust

2. — Would read if there is nothing better to do

3. — Enjoyable read when there’s time

4. — Enjoyable read and making time to read

5. — Would miss your favorite TV program to pead

• Avid reader Dina Parker lives in North Bend. She started reading for enjoyment and learning, but is now building a library for her 1-year-old daughter Mia. She reads books to see what lessons she can pass on to Mia. Contact Dina at dinaparker@centurytel.net.