Human trafficking is a hot-button issue that continues to make headlines globally and locally. With the alarming statistic of there being 12 to 27 million slaves involved in sex trafficking, most of whom will enter this industry between the ages of 13 and 14, this is an issue we need to educate ourselves about; however, we often don’t know where to begin. Annie Lobert’s memoir, Fallen, is a great place to start. Through incredibly honest writing, Lobert allows us to peer into the world of an average girl whose life took a tragic turn as she entered the sex industry. Her stories are raw, authentic and personal, debunking every myth we have created about human trafficking. I loved and hated that Lobert didn’t hold a lot back as I found myself needing to put the book down to collect myself at times, but also eager to get to the unbelievable story of transformation. It was a stark reminder for youth workers and parents that young people are just one step away from being pulled into the sex industry and at the same time a reminder that redemption and grace are real. While this book was a little graphic at times, I would highly recommend it to older teenagers, parents and anyone working with youth.
Fallen: Out of the Sex Industry and into the Arms of the Savior
Annie Lobert
Worthy Publishing, 2015, 224 pp., $11.50
