Half the Sky is a book that opens your eyes to the reality of women around the world. It isn´t always pretty but it is a book that every person needs to read if we are going to make some dramatic changes in the world.

For example, more girls are killed globally in one decade simply because they were born female than all the people slaughtered in genocides in the 20th century. One million children are forced into prostitution every year and the total number of prostituted children could be as high as 10 million. Today 122 million women around the world want contraception and can´t get it.

On the other hand, there are some fascinating stories of success and hope. For instance, a South African study found that giving gifrls a $6 uniform every 18 months increased the chance that they would stay in school and consequently significantly reduced the number of pregnancies they experienced. One of the most cost-effective ways to increase school attendance is to deworm students. The average American spends $50 a year to deworm a dog. In Africa, you can deworm a child for 50 cents.

One thing I am very clear on after having read the book and that is that if we want more freedom in our lives, more than half the world can´t be struggling for basic necessities and human rights. For me, part of creating my amazing life is to contribute to other people having what they need to succeed.

Pick up your copy of Half the Sky and let me know how your response to this thought-provoking book.