Books That Save Lives – World Book Day 2025
How Books Can Protect Young People
Books have the power to educate, inspire, and create change. Some books go even further—they save lives.
This World Book Day, two essential books are being highlighted for their role in protecting over 100,000 young people from forced marriage and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
Aneeta Prem’s But It’s Not Fair and Cut Flowers are more than just stories. They are educational resources used in schools, youth groups, and safeguarding training to help students identify abuse, seek support, and take action.
Books That Save Lives – Essential Reads for World Book Day
But It’s Not Fair – Raising Awareness of Forced Marriage
Forced marriage remains a hidden threat that affects young people across the UK and beyond. But It’s Not Fair follows Vinny, a schoolgirl who learns that her best friend is being forced into marriage.
The book teaches readers how to:
- Recognise the warning signs of forced marriage
- Understand the legal protections available
- Seek help for themselves or others in danger
One young reader described how the book changed their perspective, making them realise that forced marriage could happen to someone like them.
- Over 100,000 copies donated to UK schools
- For many students, this was their first book
- A recognised safeguarding resource for teachers and professionals
Cut Flowers – Breaking the Silence on FGM
FGM remains one of the most underreported forms of abuse in the UK. Cut Flowers follows Katie and Sophia, two schoolgirls who discover the reality of FGM in their community.
The book helps young readers understand:
- What FGM is and why it happens
- How to seek help if they or someone they know is at risk
- The long-term physical and psychological impact of FGM
A reader stated that before reading Cut Flowers, they had never realised FGM was happening in the UK.
- A trusted safeguarding resource for PSHE education
- Used by teachers, safeguarding professionals, and social workers
- Empowers young people to recognise and report abuse
Over 100,000 Books Donated – How Freedom Charity is Protecting Young People
Freedom Charity has donated over 100,000 copies of But It’s Not Fair and Cut Flowers to schools, colleges, and safeguarding organisations. These books have provided students with the knowledge and confidence to identify and prevent abuse.
- Many students received these books as their first-ever reading material
- Schools and safeguarding professionals use them in training sessions
- Young readers have reported abuse and sought help after reading these books
A survivor explained that reading one of these books helped them realise something was wrong and gave them the courage to speak up.
➡ Help us reach more schools – Buy a book now
Buy One, Donate Two – Help Protect Young People
This World Book Day, every purchase makes a difference.
For every book purchased, Freedom Charity donates two additional copies to schools in need.
➡ Buy Now and Donate Two Copies
Take Action – Help End Forced Marriage and FGM
These books aren’t just stories. They are lifelines for young people. By reading, sharing, and supporting them, you can:
- Educate young people about their rights
- Empower survivors to speak up
- Ensure more children are protected from forced marriage and FGM
Sharing this post will help raise awareness.
