The Child Bride

Cathy Glass's The Child Bride tells the gripping story of Zeena, a young girl seeking freedom from her oppressive family and cultural expectations.

In The Child Bride, Cathy Glass, an international bestselling author, recounts the harrowing journey of Zeena, a young Asian girl who feels compelled to flee her family. At just 14 years old, Zeena's desperation to escape leads her to beg for placement with a non-Asian family, revealing the deep fears that haunt her. The narrative unfolds as she navigates her new life, filled with both hope and heartache, while grappling with the loss of her siblings, who she longs to see but are kept away by her family's strict beliefs.

As Zeena settles into the home of her foster carer Cathy and her family, the weight of her past continues to bear down on her. The emotional turmoil she faces is compounded by the threats from her father and uncle, who believe that her actions have brought shame to their community. Despite the support offered by Cathy and the possibility of police protection, Zeena's fear of her family keeps her from seeking justice. The tension builds as Cathy learns the full extent of Zeena's situation, leaving her feeling helpless and heartbroken.

Ultimately, The Child Bride is a poignant memoir that sheds light on the complexities of cultural expectations, familial loyalty, and the struggle for personal freedom. Through Zeena's story, Cathy Glass highlights the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity, making this a compelling read for anyone interested in stories of courage and hope.