Summary

"Stones into Schools" continues Greg Mortenson's extraordinary journey, picking up where "Three Cups of Tea" left off. It chronicles his tireless efforts to promote education, particularly for girls, in the remote and war-torn regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan. Mortenson's work takes him to the Wakhan Corridor, a remote area of Afghanistan, where he faces daunting logistical challenges and cultural complexities in his quest to build a school for the nomadic Kirghiz people.

The book details the incredible challenges Mortenson and his team face as they try to set up schools amidst political instability, Taliban threats, and bureaucratic hurdles. One of the biggest obstacles is the constant need to balance the safety and security of those he works with against the ever-present dangers of working in a conflict zone. Mortenson's "dirty dozen," a dedicated group of local staff, prove essential in navigating these complex situations. They are a diverse crew who understand the local customs and are deeply committed to improving their communities, they become his most trusted allies.

Interwoven with Mortenson's journey are the stories of extraordinary individuals, like Nasreen Baig, a woman who overcomes numerous obstacles to pursue her education, and Colonel Christopher Kolenda, a U.S. Army officer who recognizes the importance of education in combating extremism. Through these narratives, Mortenson highlights the transformative power of education and its ability to bring hope and positive change to even the most desperate circumstances.

The book underscores the importance of cultural sensitivity, relationship-building, and community involvement in development work. Mortenson's approach, which emphasizes listening to and understanding the needs of the local people, proves to be highly effective in building trust and fostering sustainable change. Despite setbacks and personal sacrifices, Mortenson remains committed to his mission, driven by a deep belief in the power of education to transform lives and promote peace.