In 'Girls Like Us,' Rachel Lloyd shares her powerful journey as a former victim of the sex trade, revealing the harsh realities faced by young women caught in the cycle of exploitation. Through personal anecdotes and the stories of others, she exposes the societal forces that perpetuate this trafficking. Lloyd not only sheds light on the girls' struggles but also celebrates their strength and resilience in overcoming adversity. Her narrative is a call to action, urging readers to recognize and combat the injustices surrounding modern-day slavery. This compelling memoir blends heart-wrenching truth with hope, leaving readers inspired to make a difference.
By Rachel Lloyd
Published: 2012
"'The journey of reclaiming our stories is the first step towards reclaiming ourselves; we are not defined by our past, but by how we rise from it.'"
During her teens, Rachel Lloyd ended up a victim of commercial sexual exploitation. With time, through incredible resilience, and with the help of a local church community, she finally broke free of her pimp and her past and devoted herself to helping other young girls escape "the life." In Girls Like Us, Lloyd reveals the dark world of commercial sex trafficking in cinematic detail and tells the story of her groundbreaking nonprofit organization: GEMS, Girls Educational and Mentoring Services. With great humanity, she shares the stories of the girls whose lives GEMS has helped—small victories that have healed her wounds and made her whole. Revelatory, authentic, and brave, Girls Like Us is an unforgettable memoir.
Showing 8 of 28 similar books
Ryan Holiday is a bestselling author and media strategist known for his books on stoicism, including The Obstacle Is the Way and Ego Is the Enemy. He is a leading voice in modern stoic philosophy, teaching readers how to apply ancient wisdom to achieve personal and professional success. Holiday’s work emphasizes resilience, discipline, and humility as keys to navigating life’s challenges. He has consulted with major companies and individuals on marketing and strategy, blending stoic principles with contemporary business practices. His books have been translated into over 30 languages.
Jessica Gomes is an Australian model and actress, best known for her appearances in Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue and for her work as a brand ambassador for various global brands. Gomes has worked with high-profile fashion houses and beauty brands, becoming one of the most recognized Australian models internationally. She has also branched into acting, appearing in films such as Once Upon a Time in Venice. In addition to her modeling and acting career, Gomes is involved in philanthropy and has supported several charitable causes, particularly those focused on health and education.
Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
Aileen Lee is a distinguished venture capitalist and founder of Cowboy Ventures, a seed-stage venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology companies. She is widely known for coining the term "unicorn" to describe startups valued at over $1 billion, significantly impacting how the tech industry views high-growth companies. Lee's keen eye for innovation and her advocacy for diversity in tech have made her a prominent figure in Silicon Valley. Beyond her financial acumen, she has authored insightful articles on entrepreneurship and startup culture, contributing valuable perspectives to business literature. Lee's work continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and investors.
Aaron Levie is the co-founder and CEO of Box, a cloud content management platform that revolutionized how businesses manage and collaborate on content. He launched Box in 2005 while still a college student, and the company rapidly grew into a leader in the cloud storage industry. Levie is known for his innovative, forward-thinking approach to enterprise software and for pushing the boundaries of digital transformation. Under his leadership, Box went public in 2015 and continues to evolve with new technologies and partnerships. He is a strong advocate for cloud-first business strategies and frequently shares his insights on the future of work and the digital workplace. Levie is also a prolific speaker and writer, often discussing technology's role in the modern economy. His energetic and witty personality has made him a popular figure in Silicon Valley and beyond.
Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.
Showing 8 of 23 related collections
“'The journey of reclaiming our stories is the first step towards reclaiming ourselves; we are not defined by our past, but by how we rise from it.'”
Girls Like Us
By Rachel Lloyd
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Rachel Lloyd is a distinguished author and advocate known for her powerful storytelling and commitment to social justice. She is the author of the acclaimed memoir "Girls Like Us: Fighting for a World Where Girls Are Not for Sale" and the influential book "The Girls Who Went Away," which explores the realities facing young women in America. Lloyd's writing is characterized by its raw honesty, compelling narrative style, and deep empathy for her subjects, often drawing from her own experiences and advocacy work. She is also the founder and executive director of GEMS (Girls Educational and Mentoring Services), a nonprofit organization that empowers young women who have been involved in the sex trade.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'Steve Jobs', Walter Isaacson unveils the enigmatic life of the Apple co-founder, revealing the genius behind his relentless pursuit of perfection. This biography captures the brilliance and contradictions of a man who transformed entire industries with his innovative vision. Dive into the milestones of Jobs' career, from his revolutionary products to his tumultuous relationships. With candid insights from Jobs himself and those who knew him best, this book exposes the complex psyche of a modern icon. Discover how one man's dream reshaped technology, design, and the way we communicate forever.
In 'Wanting' by Luke Burgis, the author explores the profound influence of desire on human behavior. Drawing from philosophical insights and real-world examples, Burgis reveals how our cravings shape our choices and relationships. He uncovers the hidden drivers behind our ambitions, suggesting that what we want often reflects the desires of others. This thought-provoking narrative challenges readers to examine the nature of their own wants and the societal pressures that mold them. Discover how understanding desire can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Dive into the extraordinary life of Nelson Mandela as chronicled by Barry Denenberg. This captivating biography unveils the journey of a boy from a small South African village to a global symbol of peace and resilience. Discover how Mandela's relentless fight against apartheid, his years of imprisonment, and his incredible leadership transformed a nation. With heart-wrenching challenges and triumphant victories, this story inspires hope and underscores the power of forgiveness. Join Denenberg in exploring the legacy of a man who changed the world, and be prepared to rethink justice and humanity.
"Your One-Year-Old" is an insightful guide for parents navigating the fascinating yet challenging world of toddlerhood. The authors, renowned child development experts, explore the incredible milestones of a child's first year, offering practical advice and relatable anecdotes. With a blend of expert research and real-life parenting experiences, this book empowers caregivers to understand their little one's emotional and intellectual growth. Readers will discover the joys of early communication, emerging independence, and the complex social dynamics at play in a toddler's life. Dive into this essential resource that transforms parenting into an enriching adventure!
No summary available
In 'An Autobiography', Mohandas K. Gandhi shares the remarkable journey of his life, revealing the evolution of his philosophy of non-violence and truth. From his early years in India to his transformative experiences in South Africa, Gandhi exposes the struggles that shaped his commitment to social justice. His candid reflections on faith, morality, and personal growth challenge conventional beliefs and inspire readers to question their own values. This gripping narrative not only details his political activism but also provides an intimate look at his family life and spiritual pursuits. Discover the profound insights that guided one of history's most influential leaders in his quest for freedom and equality.
In 'The Undocumented Americans', Karla Cornejo Villavicencio weaves together poignant narratives that give voice to the often overlooked lives of undocumented immigrants in America. Each story illuminates the struggle, resilience, and humanity of those living in the shadows, challenging common perceptions and stereotypes. Villavicencio's bold prose blends memoir with powerful reportage, revealing the intersecting realities of hardship, hope, and identity. As she navigates her own experiences as an undocumented immigrant, she invites readers to empathize and connect with those whose stories are rarely told. This evocative work compels us to reconsider the meaning of American identity and the hidden lives that shape our society.
"Assata" is the powerful autobiography of Assata Shakur, a former Black Panther and a fugitive living in Cuba. Through her compelling narrative, she details her experiences with systemic racism, political oppression, and the fight for Black liberation in America. Shakur offers a raw, unflinching look at her life, from her childhood to her controversial arrest and eventual escape from the injustices of the American legal system. Her story challenges readers to confront difficult truths about society and question the narratives surrounding activists. With its potent blend of personal reflection and political discourse, "Assata" is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of resistance and resilience.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
