Three Cups of Tea-by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin

For two months, I have pored over this spectacular book. I praise Greg Mortenson's method for combating terrorism: build schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan in order to educate the poor, desperate children in those troubled countries. Education is indispensable because the children would be able to learn about moral behaviors and how to function appropriately as an adult, instead of resorting to violence--like the Taliban. The kids would still learn about Islam, yet hopefully would not take on extremist actions like the radical terrorist groups. Also, the children won't be as easily influenced by the Taliban or any political, dictatorial faction of the government; the children would have an identity and be able to make their own decisions on how to live their lives. Like how Hitler took advantage of Germans' desperation with the economy during the 1930s Great Depression and rose to power, the Taliban gain supporters by appealing to poor, uneducated citizens who are desperate for any improvement in their lives. Someone who is poor will not know of the dangers of supporting a radical terrorist group; s/he just wants aid to relieve their poverty. However, if that same person were educated, then s/he would know how to manage his/her own life, thus enabling him/her to escape poverty and advance up the social ladder. Especially for poor, Afghan women, if they receive an education, they will break down traditional societal barriers adhered to for thousands of years. Women, from early times in the Afghan culture, were seen as subservient housewives; yet, when provided with education, they could expand their roles and influence in society by proving to men that they are just as capable to manage sophisticated affairs.

Hopefully, under Greg's plan, democratic values will be instilled in the children's minds so they can become savvy, politically active adults. Then, they can choose more moderate leaders who will actually bring reform to Afghanistan and Pakistan, creating more efficient governments. Then finally, the governments will enact legislation to help all of their citizens.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys learning about different cultures and wants to learn more about current events. I would definitely rate this book a 10 out of 10!!!