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Tricks summary
Brief summary
Tricks by Ellen Hopkins tells the interconnected stories of five troubled teenagers who are lured into the dark world of prostitution. It is a raw and harrowing novel that sheds light on the harsh realities of exploitation and the desperate search for love and acceptance.
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Tricks
Summary of key ideas
Exploring the Dark World of Teen Prostitution
In Tricks by Ellen Hopkins, we are introduced to five teenagers who are struggling with their own personal demons. The story begins with Eden, a girl who is sexually abused by her brother and runs away from home. She ends up in a world of drugs and prostitution, where she meets a pimp named Hunter. Hunter is a manipulative and abusive man who takes advantage of Eden's vulnerability and forces her into a life of prostitution.
Next, we meet Seth, a gay teenager who is struggling to come to terms with his sexuality. He is rejected by his religious family and ends up on the streets, where he meets a man named Dante. Dante takes Seth under his wing and introduces him to the world of male prostitution. Despite the dangers and risks, Seth finds a sense of belonging and acceptance in this new world.
Desperate Measures for Survival
As the story progresses, we are introduced to Whitney, a girl who is neglected by her drug-addicted mother. In an attempt to escape her harsh reality, Whitney runs away and ends up in a similar situation as Eden. She is lured into prostitution by a man named Trey, who promises her a better life. However, Whitney soon realizes that Trey is nothing but a manipulative pimp who exploits her for his own gain.
Meanwhile, Ginger, a girl from a broken home, is struggling to make ends meet. She turns to stripping to support herself and her younger sister. However, when her sister is taken away by child protective services, Ginger is forced to make some difficult choices. She eventually turns to prostitution as a means to survive and reunite with her sister.
Unraveling the Harsh Realities
Finally, we meet Cody, a boy who is struggling with his mother's drug addiction and his father's absence. In an attempt to escape his harsh reality, Cody turns to drugs and ends up in a juvenile detention center. There, he meets a boy named Kelly, who introduces him to the world of male prostitution. Despite his initial reluctance, Cody soon finds himself trapped in this dangerous lifestyle.
As the lives of these five teenagers unfold, we witness the harsh realities of the world of prostitution. They face violence, abuse, addiction, and the constant threat of disease. Despite their different backgrounds and circumstances, they are all united by their desperate need for survival and their search for love and acceptance.
Confronting the Consequences
Throughout Tricks, Ellen Hopkins does not shy away from the brutal realities of teen prostitution. She paints a vivid and unflinching portrait of the lives of these vulnerable teenagers, highlighting the dangers and consequences of their choices. The story forces us to confront the uncomfortable truths about the exploitation and abuse that often accompany the world of sex work.
In conclusion, Tricks is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that sheds light on the dark world of teen prostitution. Through the lives of Eden, Seth, Whitney, Ginger, and Cody, we are confronted with the harsh realities of exploitation, abuse, and survival. Ellen Hopkins' raw and unapologetic storytelling forces us to acknowledge the often-overlooked plight of these vulnerable teenagers.
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What is Tricks about?
Tricks by Ellen Hopkins tells the interconnected stories of five teenagers who are lured into the dark world of sex trafficking. With raw emotion and powerful verse, the novel uncovers the harsh realities and challenges they face as they strive for survival and freedom. It sheds light on an important issue and leaves a lasting impact on its readers.
Tricks Review
Tricks (2009) by Ellen Hopkins delves into the lives of five teenagers and their struggles with addiction and prostitution. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- The raw and honest portrayal of their lives offers a gripping and eye-opening exploration of the darker side of adolescence.
- Through its poetic and emotionally-charged narrative, the book brings depth and authenticity to the characters' experiences.
- With its thought-provoking themes of identity, self-destruction, and redemption, the story is sure to leave a lasting impact.
Who should read Tricks?
- Readers who enjoy gritty, realistic young adult fiction
- Individuals looking for a thought-provoking exploration of social issues such as addiction, exploitation, and identity
- Those who appreciate raw and unconventional storytelling styles
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Tricks FAQs
What is the main message of Tricks?
The main message of Tricks is the harsh realities and consequences of human trafficking.
How long does it take to read Tricks?
The reading time for Tricks varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Tricks a good book? Is it worth reading?
Tricks is a gripping and eye-opening read that sheds light on the dark world of human trafficking and its impact on young lives.
Who is the author of Tricks?
The author of Tricks is Ellen Hopkins.
What to read after Tricks?
If you're wondering what to read next after Tricks, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright