Reviews with content warning for Sexual assault - Verkauft

The tenth most banned book in America this past year is a skillfully and sensitively told story, based on interviews between real survivors and the white American author, of a 13 year old Nepali girl sold by her stepfather into prostitution in India. This important, inspiring, and incredibly moving book, published in 2006 to critical acclaim, exemplifies the words Lakshmi’s beloved mother tells her, “Simply to endure…is to triumph,” and celebrates survival, love of learning, and hope.

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linda_wolf's review against another edition

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dark emotional informative sad fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

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jlarrew's review against another edition

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challenging dark informative sad tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

I read this as part of a banned books book club. It's a young adult book.

When they were getting to her first time, I was worried that it might be too much for young readers. But it's not. The heanous acts done to Lakshmi aren't spilled out in graphic details. I do think you lose something without those details, though given the audience, it's appropriate.

I think the book seeks to educate young readers about the sex trade so that maybe it can save someone. The author notes that it's a huge problem in Nepal and that was her inspiration.

It's to be assumed that Lakshmi ends up in a better place, but I wish we could follow her.

I listened to the book and it was a bit disjointed because they read the chapter titles. It would be better without those.

I was happy that they added in the small kindnesses she received. Also, that the tea boy saved her from drugs.

It breaks my heart that there's many out there in this situation right now.

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gemstonejasper's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

This is an absolutely heartwrenching story about a young girl from Napal who is sold into sex slavery. It's told in the form of various poems. It was a really eye-opening story about a horrible topic. It was painful to read about the experiences of this young girl and others like her.

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