The True Story of a Modern-Day Child Slave
FlumeAward – The True Story of a Modern-Day Child Slave HIdden Girl: The True Story of a Modern-Day Child Slave by Shyima Hall
Shyima’s story would perhaps have appeal for informational teen readers or even reluctant readers. Teens who need to read biographies/memoirs on current social issues could enjoy reading this work. The book’s swift pace, and simple narrative makes for easy comprehension. A few drawbacks is that while this book provides a deeper view of modern day slavery (including statistics), the personal and emotional connection or even heart wrenching anguish fell a bit short. I had a hard time connecting with her, and it could be due to the overly-simplistic literary quality. The book is a quick read, and that made it extremely difficult (for me) to foster an emotional connection with Shyima.
The above paragraph was originally penned by another reviewer and edited slightly by me, but it encapsulates what I felt. This review is not to make light of the topic, but the simplicity of the writing was hard for me to embrace. I do not recommend for Flume but I’d really like some other readers’ opinions!
Kathy Watson, Kimball Library (Atkinson)