Before You Read

1. In two well-developed paragraphs, describe the setting of your book (time and place)

Time - This book was published in 2006. I'm assuming you mean the time in which the story takes place, and that is in late 1990's and early 2000's. I believe the time changes throughout the book, but I have not read it. The story spans over about 6 years. From a physiological aspect, the time is very un-civilized. Although a budding and new culture, the country of Nepal and other countries in Africa are very impoverished. The book is about building libraries and the help John Wood has done to improve the impoverished nations of Africa.

2. In a paragraph, explain the social issue or conflict that your book's protagonist faces

The conflict that the 'main' character faces is actually quite different than the title may presume. The title actually has nothing to do with Microsoft helping nations, but rather the spiritual journey of John Woods (co-executive of Microsoft) leaving Microsoft to help and bring up the African nations. It started by John Woods taking a vacation of a hiking trip in the Nepali lands, and it turned into a journey of hope and help.

3. How many people does this issue or conflict impact in today's world, and how serious is this impact?

The effects of the impoverishment and poor education of African natives, Or the impact that John Woods had on them? Quite a large span for error there. I'm presuming it's the first option. The impact that this has on the world is vital. Over 1.4 billion people live in Africa, and the percent of those that are educated people is very low. This means the few that are smart can easily find corruption in government, and many issue's will break out.

4. What are some of the ways that people have tried to solve this problem or address this issue?

Well, this book for example! People such as John Woods have helped to build libraries throughout Africa, and educate many of it's people. John Woods and his foundation alone have built over 7,500 libraries! The issue is being treated, but on a very small scale.

Citations:
EasyBib: Free Bibliography Maker - MLA, APA, Chicago Citation Styles. Web.
              02 Nov. 2011. <http://easybib.com/>.

Home - Leaving Microsoft to Change the World. Web.
              08 Nov. 2011. <http://www.leavingmicrosoftbook.com/>.