75 pages • 2 hours read
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263
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Nepal • Contemporary
2006
YA
14-18 years
820L
In Sold by Patricia McCormick, Lakshmi, a 13-year-old girl from a remote Nepali village, is trafficked to an Indian brothel called "Happiness House" under false pretenses. She chronicles her harrowing experiences and interactions with other inhabitants through short vignettes, ultimately detailing her clever scheme to secure her own rescue. The novel includes references to physical abuse and suicide.
Dark
Emotional
Challenging
Contemplative
Melancholic
Sold by Patricia McCormick Sold by Patricia McCormick has been widely praised for its powerful and heartbreaking portrayal of human trafficking. Reviewers commend McCormick's sensitive and poignant storytelling, well-researched depiction of a critical issue, and the development of a strong and relatable protagonist. Some criticisms include the book's stark and graphic content, which, while impactful, may be distressing for some readers. Overall, Sold is lauded for raising awareness and evoking strong emotional responses.
Readers who would enjoy Patricia McCormick's Sold typically appreciate gripping, emotional narratives about resilience and human rights. Fans of books like Khaled Hosseini's A Thousand Splendid Suns or Mitali Perkins' Bamboo People will find a compelling and enlightening story in McCormick's work.
Ama
Lakshmi’s devoted mother, who is resourceful and hopeful, often making sacrifices to support her family despite the hardships they face.
Lakshmi’s Stepfather
A flawed man whose actions significantly impact Lakshmi's life; he struggles with addiction and irresponsibility, contributing to the family's financial difficulties.
Mumtaz
The operator of a brothel where Lakshmi ends up; a figure of authority who is characterized by her indulgence in wealth and power.
Shahanna
A kind girl Lakshmi meets who provides practical advice and companionship within the challenging environment of the brothel.
Shilpa
An adult working at the brothel who also serves as a spy for Mumtaz; she has a complex backstory linked to her life choices.
Pushpa
A woman working at the brothel out of necessity to support her children, whose health becomes a critical issue during her time there.
Harish
Pushpa's young son, who lives at the brothel and attends school, forming a significant friendship with Lakshmi and helping her learn new languages.
Monica
A hard-working girl or young woman at the brothel who initially seems distant but reveals depth through her motivations to help her family.
Anita
A friend Lakshmi makes who is initially guarded and wary, largely due to past experiences of violence and disappointment.
Street Boy
A young vendor who visits the brothel regularly and aids Lakshmi by offering her a means of communication with the outside world through his kindness.
263
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Nepal • Contemporary
2006
YA
14-18 years
820L
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