Books do more than just tell stories—they open doors into lives we might never otherwise see. This World Book Day, my colleagues and I are celebrating the joy of reading. We also want to highlight books that challenge us, that confront harsh realities, and that tell the truth. So, we’re sharing our book recommendations for folks who want to learn more about modern slavery.
Around the world, over 50 million people are trapped in forced labor, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking. These are not just numbers; they are people with names, dreams, and voices often silenced by modern slavery. Books give them a chance to be heard.
Books we loved
Here are our top recommendations of books that have challenged, moved, and inspired us to think more critically about freedom and justice:
The Great Escape by Saket Soni
Rebekah says, “This book is so impactful as it points to how forced labor can happen under legal auspices and hide in plain sight. Especially as we have increasingly frequent extreme weather events around the world, this story underlines the importance of labor protections in times of disaster and how traffickers exploit the panic and chaos catastrophes leave behind.”
Asylum: A Memoir and a Manifesto by Edafe Okporo
Ellie says, “It’s a memoir by a Nigerian asylee and global gay rights and immigration activist. He shares why he had no choice but to flee Nigeria for the U.S. Expecting safety, he was instead locked in a detention center and forced to navigate an immigration system he found nearly impossible, corrupt, and inhumane. It’s a powerful call to action for safe migration and offers a glimpse into a brutal, hidden system that urgently needs change.”
Master Slave Husband Wife by Ilyon Woo
Bob says, “A Pulitzer Prize-winning account of an enslaved couple’s daring escape from 1848 Georgia to the North, with the wife disguised as a white man and her husband as ‘his’ servant. It’s an inspiring story of extraordinary creativity and perseverance in the fight for freedom.”
Chain Gang All Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah
Krysta says, “A dystopian novel that feels disturbingly close to reality, this book imagines a future where incarcerated people fight to the death for their freedom in a televised spectacle. It’s a brutal, sharp critique of the prison-industrial complex—and a reminder of how easily systems of exploitation can be repackaged as something more palatable.”
The Truth about Modern Slavery by Emily Kenway
Joanna says, “Emily explains how the anti-modern slavery agenda was in fact a political tool by the UK’s politicians and government to push anti-immigration and anti-migrant policies. This, ironically, actually creates vulnerabilities to exploitation.”
Beyond books
If these stories move you as they’ve moved us consider taking the next step:
- Support anti-slavery organizations
- Share these books and start conversations
- Use your voice to advocate for stronger protections and systems that prioritize human rights
Because awareness is only the beginning.
We’d love to know—have you read any of these books, or are there others you’d recommend? What stories have stayed with you and sparked action or reflection? Let us know.
Freedom United is interested in hearing from our community and welcomes relevant, informed comments, advice, and insights that advance the conversation around our campaigns and advocacy. We value inclusivity and respect within our community. To be approved, your comments should be civil.