Book Reflection: Priceless by Tom Davis

After reading this book, my heart feels heavy for many reasons. This book is about the evil of human trafficking  following the life of one beautiful, innocent girl named Marina. The setting is the unique country of Russia.

In his interview at the end of the book, Tom Davis says that 80 percent of this book is true. Many parts of this book are hard to read, for abuse and evil are prevalent  I had no idea human trafficking is considered a growing industry, where many girls (mainly orphans according to Tom Davis) are kidnapped and turned into a sex slave. My heart is torn for these girls, knowing how hopeless and helpless they must feel as they are treated as if they are unloved and uncared for. However, the book reminds us there is hope.

The main character is Stuart, who is an American journalist who travels to Russia for a story. He meets an old friend named Katya who is working with many others to rescue girls and give them new life. In a whirlwind of events, Stuart becomes a part of this plan, risking his life to save Marina and other enslaved girls.

Tom Davis wrote this book from two perspectives  Stuart's and Marina's. The first chapter starts off with Stuart videoing Marina, making a documentary of her testimony. All of Marina's chapters are in italics and I fell in love with her right away. Despite the heartache she has been through in her life, she does not lose her faith. She clings to God and I believe this is an example for us all. It is also great because you want to keep reading to see how God delivered her from this darkness.

If I could choose a theme for this book, it would be REDEMPTION, which is by definition "to buy back from bondage by the payment of a price." The books reminds us of Jesus Christ, who is our Redeemer, our Savior, and is always ready to offer us new life. The title of this book if Priceless because as the book states, "Salvation is priceless. These girls are priceless." (p. 255).
This book is a must read, even though the contents will pull on your heart strings. I am challenged to remember Christ as our Redeemer, our Savior, the truth that can overcome evil, and  I hope to make a difference somehow for these girls who are caught in this horror. 

Tom Davis leaves you with a number of resources in the back of the book of ways you can help and how you can find out more. One such website is www.SheisPriceless.com

Please pray for this evil to be stopped, pray for leaders who are working to stop this, and pray for ways you can make a difference.