Review Detail

I picked up Trafficked because I've been studying human trafficking for some time now. I was glad to see the topic addressed in YA literature, especially since it takes advantage of so many young children and teens each year. Trafficking is not an easy subject to talk about, but it's imperative that we do. Kim Purcell tackled a heart wrenching issue and I commend her for that; but I found myself a little disappointed with its delivery.

This might be because I set my hopes too high, I was expecting a deep and gritty novel about sex and domestic trafficking, and that wasn't what I got. See, inside Trafficked are two different plots: Hannah's experiences as a trafficked worker for the Platonovs, and the mystery behind the circumstances in which she arrived in their home. While both kept me turning the pages, the second seemed to take the focus. This isn't bad, the novel was great and I enjoyed it. It just didn't meet my expectations and I was disappointed. However, I feel like Kim made trafficking more accessible for younger readers by adding in the mystery.

Hannah was an amazing character, incredibly motivated and honest. She was so strong and selfless throughout everything that happened; despite all the abuse and threats she only thought of her grandmother. It was sad following such a lovable and inspiring character. Kim created someone that readers of all ages could connect to and root for making the novel resonate with you. I wanted to see Hannah's happy ending. I wanted to see the Platonovs and Paavo pay for their mistreatment and horrible actions. And to be honest, I wanted to see Hannah beat the crap out of Lillian.

Trafficked is a hard hitting, well researched story that everyone should read. Understandably, there is violence and a handful of sexual scenes so parents of younger readers might want to make sure this one is appropriate for their children. But personally, all of this adds to the novel's impact. Even though it disappointed me in a pretty big way, I still really liked Kim’s message and Hannah’s story.