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.

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 has received several accolades including a National Book Award nomination, highlighting its impactful storytelling and important themes.
- Patricia McCormick undertook extensive research, including traveling to India and Nepal, to ensure the authenticity of the narrative and the context in which it is set.
- Sold was adapted into a film in 2016, allowing its powerful message to reach a wider audience through a different medium.

**Lakshmi**  
A young girl from a remote village in Nepal, known for her intelligence and hard work, who travels to the city under the promise of a job but faces unexpected challenges.

**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.

Patricia McCormick

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