Sold, by Patricia McCormick

[Lady Julian]

Just finished a one-sitting read of Patricia McCormick's novella Sold.

As you know, I teach at a conservative religious school (but not a fundy school, thank God!), and I try to introduce my students to themes of religious freedom and social diversity. A friend recommended this book in light of my interest in social diversity. It's written in free verse for an older teen audience, and it tells the story of a young Nepalese girl sold into sexual slavery in Calcutta.

What drew me into this book, and perhaps contributed to its emotional poignancy, was its characterization: It's not a dirty book, no graphic details about what the 13-year-old protagonist does with her "customers". But the author does fill the book with details about the protagonist's world, especially the other slaves (and their children) who "live" in the brothel. The contrast between these women and what they want from life, and their complete inability to get it, saddened me and almost brought me to tears (I almost never cry over books).

Read it. I think one thing that many of us took from our journey out of Fundamentalism was that we should care for the deep needs of those around us; certainly this has been something I have learned. It's a good awareness-raising book about the need of putting an end to the sexual slave trade.

EDIT: for spelling

[pastor's wife]

It IS a good and emotionally-moving book. Here's my review on Goodreads about it:

An incredible sad but powerful story. When the story began, I thought the time period was a hundred years ago or more. Unfortunately, it is set in today's world. The step by step progression of an unwitting girl from Nepal into prostitution in India gives readers a true glimpse of inhumanity and cruelty. Although nowhere near as graphic as it could be, its subject matter would certainly cause some parents to hesitate before recommending this to their child. However, if a student is mature enough, I think a story like this could make him or her more compassionate toward others and more grateful for the everyday blessings and freedoms we enjoy. It would be interesting to follow up this story with information about missions groups and organizations that seek to rescue girls sold into prostitution.

The story itself is told in short chapters presented as free verse poems. This not only moves the plot ahead quickly but gives deep insight into the narrator's thoughts and desires. Compelling and heart-breaking, this story will draw you into a world you wish did not exist and one that you know you will never forget.