Why a Booktrail?
2008 – Imagine being forced to marry a man three times your age. When you’re 9? This book looks at the stark reality of Yemeni child brides
I am Nujood, Age 10 and Divorced
What you need to know before your trail
In 2008 Nujood Ali’s childhood came to an end when her father arranged for her to be married to a man three times her age.
What followed was either a traditional life for a child in Yemeni culture or the most horrific example of child abuse depending on your point of view. Nujood’s view was that she would challenge her marriage and escape the abuse she suffered. What’s more, she would se her experiences to show other young girls in the Middle East that they could also challenge years of tradition for themselves.
Travel Guide
This is a harrowing tale and an harrowing view of one aspect of Yemeni culture and tradition but overall this is the story of one very young and very real little girl who had the strength and the courage to defy her elders and years of tradition. Imagine the strength that must have taken and the fact that finally she got people to listen.
The story is understandably difficult to read and takes us from the village where Nujood lived to the capital city and to the high courts where she got to speak to those in power who would and could help.
Treated and viewed as nothing more than the possession of her husband, a woman has little if any power or rights in Yemeni society so breaking this contract between herself, her father and her new husband was no easy task.
Still in the news today – theguardian, Nujood has not had the new beginning she had hoped for as the money she received from this book have not helped her as she would have hoped. it was also reported by CNN that the husband was given compensation for losing his bride, rather than being punished.
Where Next?
