Books on Forced Marriage: 2024 Update of the Best Titles

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The Girl with the Louding Voice

by Abi Daré

The Girl with the Louding Voice is a powerful and heart-wrenching book about a young Nigerian girl, Adunni, who is determined to find her voice and speak up for herself in a society where girls are often forced into marriage. The novel follows Adunni’s journey as she navigates through poverty, oppression, and the harsh realities of being a girl in Nigeria. Through her resilience and determination, she strives to overcome the obstacles in her path and find her own path to independence and empowerment. The book sheds light on the issue of forced marriage and the struggle for women’s rights in a captivating and compelling narrative that will leave readers deeply moved and inspired.

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A Thousand Splendid Suns

by Khaled Hosseini

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini is a captivating and heart-wrenching novel that explores the lives of two Afghan women, Mariam and Laila, whose paths cross in the midst of political turmoil and societal upheaval. Set against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s turbulent history, the novel delves into the themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring power of love. As the story unfolds, the reader is drawn into the lives of these two women as they navigate the oppressive realities of gender inequality, domestic abuse, and the harrowing consequences of forced unions. Through Hosseini’s evocative storytelling, readers are taken on an emotional journey that sheds light on the harsh realities of forced marriage and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

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Sold

by Patricia McCormick

Sold by Patricia McCormick is a compelling and heart-wrenching novel that follows the story of Lakshmi, a young Nepali girl who is trafficked into the world of prostitution. Set in the backdrop of Nepal’s rural countryside, the book sheds light on the harsh realities of human trafficking and forced marriage. Through McCormick’s vivid and evocative storytelling, readers are taken on a journey of resilience, courage, and hope as Lakshmi struggles to survive in a world that seeks to exploit and dehumanize her. With its powerful narrative and emotional depth, Sold is a must-read for anyone looking to gain insight into the issue of forced marriage and human trafficking. This book about forced marriage not only educates readers about the harsh realities many young girls face but also offers a message of empowerment and resilience.

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The Pearl That Broke Its Shell

by Nadia Hashimi

The Pearl That Broke Its Shell by Nadia Hashimi is a captivating and poignant novel that delves into the lives of two Afghan women, Rahima and Shekiba. Set against the backdrop of a patriarchal society, the story unfolds through dual narratives, exploring the challenges and hardships faced by these women. The book sheds light on the practice of ‘bacha posh’, where girls are dressed and raised as boys to provide them with more freedom and opportunities. It also delves into the theme of forced marriage, depicting the struggles and resilience of the women who are subjected to such societal norms. With rich storytelling and powerful character development, this novel offers a compelling and eye-opening portrayal of the harsh realities faced by women in Afghanistan. It is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of gender roles and the impact of forced marriage on women’s lives.

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The Color Purple

by Alice Walker

The Color Purple, written by Alice Walker, is a groundbreaking novel that delves into the lives of African American women in the early 20th century. The story follows the life of Celie, a young girl who is subjected to a life of oppression, abuse, and forced marriage in the American South. Through a series of letters, Celie narrates her struggles and her journey towards self-discovery and empowerment. The novel explores themes of racism, sexism, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The Color Purple is a powerful and poignant tale of survival and triumph, and it remains a timeless classic that continues to inspire and resonate with readers around the world.

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The Underground Girls of Kabul

by Jenny Nordberg

The Underground Girls of Kabul by Jenny Nordberg sheds light on the practice of bacha posh in Afghanistan, where families disguise their daughters as sons in order to gain more freedom and rights in a male-dominated society. Nordberg delves into the lives of these girls who take on a new identity, exploring the struggles and opportunities they face as they navigate a world that privileges men. The book provides a compelling look at gender roles and the societal pressures that lead to this practice. Nordberg’s investigative journalism and intimate storytelling offer a poignant and eye-opening account of the complex realities faced by these girls. The book offers a unique perspective on the challenges and resilience of Afghan women in a society where forced marriage and gender discrimination are prevalent.

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The Swallows of Kabul

by Yasmina Khadra

The Swallows of Kabul by Yasmina Khadra is a poignant and haunting novel that delves into the lives of two couples living in Kabul under the oppressive rule of the Taliban. Through the intertwining stories of Atiq and Musarrat, and Mohsen and Zunaira, the novel explores the harsh realities of life in a war-torn city, where freedom and hope are scarce commodities. As the characters struggle to navigate the brutalities of their surroundings, the novel tackles themes of love, sacrifice, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity. With lyrical prose and profound insight, The Swallows of Kabul is a compelling exploration of the impact of war and repression on the human soul. This powerful book sheds light on the devastating consequences of forced marriage and the resilience of those who endure it.

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The Road to Home

by Vanessa Del Fabbro

The Road to Home by Vanessa Del Fabbro is a compelling and poignant novel that delves into the harrowing reality of forced marriage. The story follows the journey of a young woman as she navigates the treacherous path to freedom, escaping the clutches of a forced marriage. Through her courageous and resilient spirit, the protagonist grapples with the challenges of breaking free from the oppressive constraints of tradition and societal expectations. Del Fabbro’s masterful storytelling captures the emotional turmoil and psychological complexities of the protagonist’s ordeal, offering a raw and powerful portrayal of the human experience. The Road to Home is a gripping and thought-provoking book about forced marriage that sheds light on the harsh realities faced by many individuals, ultimately delivering a message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

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The Lost Girls of Paris

by Pam Jenoff

The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff is a captivating historical fiction novel that follows the story of a group of female agents during World War II. This gripping tale is based on true events and focuses on the courageous women who worked as secret agents in occupied Europe. The protagonist, Grace Healey, stumbles upon a suitcase filled with photographs of these women and becomes determined to uncover their identities and stories. As she delves deeper into their lives, she uncovers the dangerous missions they undertook and the sacrifices they made for the war effort. The novel explores themes of bravery, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. With its compelling narrative and rich historical detail, The Lost Girls of Paris is a must-read for anyone interested in wartime espionage and the remarkable stories of women during this tumultuous period in history.

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The Last Girl: My Story of Captivity, and My Fight Against the Islamic State

by Nadia Murad

The Last Girl: My Story of Captivity, and My Fight Against the Islamic State by Nadia Murad is a powerful memoir that sheds light on the horrors of human trafficking and the resilience of the human spirit. This compelling book recounts Nadia’s harrowing experience as a Yazidi woman who was captured and enslaved by the Islamic State, enduring unimaginable suffering and witnessing the genocide of her people. Through her courageous journey to escape and her relentless advocacy for justice, Nadia becomes a voice for the thousands of women and girls who have been victims of forced marriage and sexual violence. This book about forced marriage is a testament to the strength and courage of survivors, and a call to action for the international community to confront and end these atrocities.

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The Girl from Aleppo: Nujeen’s Escape from War to Freedom

by Nujeen Mustafa

The Girl from Aleppo: Nujeen’s Escape from War to Freedom is a powerful memoir that follows Nujeen Mustafa, a young Syrian girl with cerebral palsy, as she embarks on a harrowing journey to escape the war-torn city of Aleppo. Nujeen’s story is one of resilience, courage, and hope as she navigates the challenges of fleeing her home country in a wheelchair, facing perilous border crossings, and ultimately seeking refuge in Europe. This compelling book sheds light on the plight of refugees, the struggles of people with disabilities in conflict zones, and the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a poignant and eye-opening account that offers a unique perspective on the refugee crisis and the impact of war on individuals. This is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the human cost of conflict and displacement.

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The Dressmaker of Khair Khana: Five Sisters, One Remarkable Family, and the Woman Who Risked Everything to Keep Them Safe

by Gayle Tzemach Lemmon

The Dressmaker of Khair Khana is a compelling non-fiction book about the resilience and determination of a young Afghan woman during the Taliban’s rule. Gayle Tzemach Lemmon tells the inspiring story of Kamila Sidiqi, who becomes the breadwinner for her family after her father and brother are forced to flee the country. As she starts a dressmaking business from her home, Kamila not only provides for her five sisters but also empowers them to become skilled seamstresses and entrepreneurs. The book vividly depicts the challenges and triumphs of the Sidiqi family as they navigate the oppressive restrictions imposed on women by the Taliban regime. With a focus on female empowerment and the strength of family bonds, The Dressmaker of Khair Khana is a captivating read that sheds light on the resilience and courage of Afghan women in the face of adversity.

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The Day the World Came to Town: 9/11 in Gander, Newfoundland

by Jim DeFede

The Day the World Came to Town: 9/11 in Gander, Newfoundland by Jim DeFede is a heartwarming account of the small town of Gander’s response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. When airspace was closed, 38 planes were diverted to Gander, and the town’s population doubled as they welcomed nearly 7,000 stranded passengers. This book captures the incredible generosity and compassion of the people of Gander as they opened their homes, schools, and hearts to strangers in need. The stories of the friendships formed and the acts of kindness that emerged during this challenging time are both uplifting and inspiring. DeFede’s storytelling brings to life the remarkable moments of solidarity and unity that emerged from a tragic event, making this a poignant and unforgettable read.

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The Book of Unknown Americans

by Cristina Henríquez

The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henríquez is a poignant and heart-wrenching novel that delves into the lives of immigrant families living in a small apartment building in Delaware. The story revolves around the Rivera family, who have moved from Mexico to the United States in hopes of finding a better life for their daughter, Maribel, who suffered a traumatic brain injury. As they navigate the challenges of living in a new country, they form unexpected bonds with their neighbors, including the Toro family, who have their own struggles. The novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience in the face of adversity, offering a powerful portrayal of the immigrant experience in America. Henríquez’s beautiful prose and compelling characters make this a must-read for anyone interested in the immigrant experience. This is a book about forced marriage and the challenges faced by immigrant families in a new country.

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Daughters of Shame

by Jasvinder Sanghera

Daughters of Shame by Jasvinder Sanghera is a powerful memoir that delves into the heartbreaking reality of forced marriage. This courageous and deeply personal book provides a glimpse into the author’s own experience of escaping a forced marriage and the struggles she faced as a result. Sanghera’s compelling storytelling sheds light on the cultural and societal pressures that perpetuate forced marriages, while also offering hope and inspiration to those who find themselves in similar situations. Through her poignant narrative, Sanghera not only raises awareness about the issue but also advocates for change and empowerment. Daughters of Shame is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of forced marriage and the resilience of those who break free from its suffocating grip.

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Not Without My Daughter

by Betty Mahmoody

Not Without My Daughter is a gripping memoir by Betty Mahmoody, detailing her harrowing experience of being trapped in Iran with her daughter by her abusive husband. This powerful book sheds light on the reality of forced marriage and the struggle for freedom. As Betty fights to escape the clutches of her controlling husband and the oppressive Iranian culture, she demonstrates immense courage and determination. Readers are taken on a heart-wrenching journey, as they witness Betty’s unwavering love for her daughter and her relentless pursuit of liberty. This compelling narrative exposes the terrifying reality of forced marriage and the strength it takes to break free from it. Not Without My Daughter is a must-read for anyone seeking insight into the devastating impact of forced marriage and the resilience of the human spirit.

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Desert Flower

by Waris Dirie

Desert Flower by Waris Dirie is a powerful memoir that takes readers on an incredible journey from a nomadic life in the Somali desert to the world of high fashion in London. The book delves into the author’s personal experiences, including the brutal practice of female genital mutilation and her escape from a proposed forced marriage. Through her story, Dirie sheds light on the harrowing reality of forced marriage, providing a raw and honest account of the struggles she faced. Her resilience and determination to break free from the chains of tradition and cultural expectations make this book an inspiring and eye-opening read. Desert Flower is a compelling and important read for anyone interested in understanding the impact of forced marriage on the lives of women around the world.

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The Girl with No Name

by Marina Chapman

The Girl with No Name by Marina Chapman is a captivating memoir about a young girl’s harrowing journey through abandonment, captivity, and survival. The book reveals the author’s extraordinary true story of being kidnapped in Colombia and abandoned in the jungle, where she is taken in by a group of capuchin monkeys and learns to fend for herself. As she grows older, she is eventually adopted by a family and faces the challenges of adapting to human society while dealing with the trauma of her past. This gripping and inspiring tale of resilience and strength is a must-read for anyone interested in stories of survival and overcoming adversity. The Girl with No Name offers a unique perspective on the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope in the face of unimaginable circumstances.

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Stolen Innocence

by Elissa Wall

Stolen Innocence by Elissa Wall is a compelling memoir that delves into the author’s experience of being forced into a polygamous marriage at a young age. This gripping book on forced marriage takes readers on a journey through Elissa’s tumultuous upbringing in the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) and her eventual escape from the oppressive community. With raw honesty, Wall recounts the emotional and psychological turmoil she endured as a child bride, providing a poignant and eye-opening account of the devastating impact of forced marriage. Her courage and resilience shine through as she bravely shares her story, shedding light on the complexities of escaping from a life of coercion and abuse. Stolen Innocence is a powerful and important book about forced marriage that sheds light on a dark and often misunderstood reality.

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A Walk Across the Sun

by Corban Addison

A Walk Across the Sun by Corban Addison is a powerful and heartbreaking novel that delves into the dark world of human trafficking and exploitation. The story follows two sisters, Ahalya and Sita, who are torn apart by a devastating tsunami in India. They are then thrown into the dangerous world of sex trafficking and forced marriage, where they must navigate a treacherous path to survival. The novel takes readers on a gripping journey as the sisters strive to find hope and freedom in the face of unimaginable cruelty. With vivid and emotional storytelling, this book about forced marriage sheds light on the harrowing realities faced by countless women and girls around the world. A Walk Across the Sun is a thought-provoking and eye-opening exploration of resilience, love, and the fight for justice.