Out of the Cages

Description

Fifteen-year-old Meena has given up all hope of ever escaping the brothel. For three years she's locked away her memories - of home, of her childhood friend, of what it means to hope. But when a botched police raid offers her a chance at freedom, Meena must face the truth about her past. As she attempts to piece her life back together, the memories she has buried deep inside begin to resurface. Meena realises escaping the brothel is only the beginning of what it means to be free. Can she face the truth in her memories? Can she return to Nepal if it means returning alone? Or will she face the red-light district one last time? 'Sometimes it's ourselves we need to trust again...'

Penny Jaye writes books for children and older readers. She lives in western Sydney with her husband and three children and is currently studying for her Master of Arts (writing and literature at Deakin university). She enjoys the challenges and opportunities of juggling a busy family life with writing commitments, including doing author visits. Some of her favourite things include family movie nights, lunch by the river and being tucked up in bed to read a new YA novel. Out of the Cages is her first young adult novel with Rhiza Edge. She also writes as Penny Reeve.

As the CEO of Destiny Rescue Australia, I see and hear of these atrocities every single day. Penny has captured the strength & determination of Meena beautifully as a shining example of all rescued children. A truly riveting read! The only way evil can triumph is if good people do nothing. Michelle Winser | CEO, Destiny Rescue Australia Out of the Cages reveals the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual suffering of young girls trafficked into global systems of prostitution. Young adult readers will gain insight into the deception, the betrayal of trust, the systemic collusion, and, above all, the extreme suffering of vulnerable girls whose bodies have become fodder to fuel a global industry. I hope this book will compel all who read it to do all they can to bring an end to sexual slavery. Melinda Tankard Reist | Writer, speaker, activist