In a world where trauma and exploitation often go unseen, learning how they work—and how people heal—is one of the most powerful things you can do.
Whether you’re a donor, advocate, parent, or simply someone who cares deeply about justice and healing, this curated reading list offers a deeper understanding of what survivors face and how restoration really happens. From the psychology of trauma to real-life stories of survival, each resource is a step toward empathy, insight, and action.
Essential Books on Trauma
Trauma changes the brain—but healing is possible. These books will reshape how you understand pain, resilience, and the human spirit.
- The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.
A groundbreaking look at how trauma affects the body and brain—and how healing can happen through therapy, movement, and connection. - What Happened to You? by Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce Perry
An accessible conversation about childhood trauma and why compassion, not judgment, changes lives. - My Grandmother’s Hands by Resmaa Menakem
A powerful guide to healing racialized trauma and reclaiming safety through somatic practices. - Trauma and Recovery by Judith Herman, M.D.
A classic text on the psychological effects of trauma, especially in cases of abuse, violence, and trafficking. - The Deepest Well by Dr. Nadine Burke Harris
Explores how childhood adversity shapes lifelong health—and how communities can build resilience.
Books to Help Survivors Heal
Recovery is not a straight line. These titles offer hope, tools, and pathways to healing—whether you’re a survivor or supporting someone on their journey.
- Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving by Pete Walker
A compassionate guide to understanding and healing from long-term, developmental trauma. - It Didn’t Start With You by Mark Wolynn
Explores inherited trauma and how to break painful cycles passed through families. - The Myth of Normal by Dr. Gabor Maté
A bold exploration of how stress and disconnection fuel illness—and what healing really requires. - Re-Regulated by Anna Runkle
A workbook-style resource to address childhood trauma, dysregulation, and self-defeating behaviors. - The Wisdom of Your Body by Hillary L. McBride
A gentle invitation to reconnect with your body as a source of healing, especially for trauma survivors.
Books That Expose the Reality of Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is happening everywhere—including in the U.S. These resources pull back the curtain on this hidden crisis and help you understand the systems behind it.
- A Crime So Monstrous by E. Benjamin Skinner
A journalist’s global investigation into modern slavery, from forced labor to sex trafficking. - Girls Like Us by Rachel Lloyd
A raw, survivor-led memoir and call to action for justice and protection for exploited youth. - Disposable People by Kevin Bales
Investigates the economics of modern slavery and how global industries fuel exploitation. - Sold by Patricia McCormick
A fictionalized but realistic look into child trafficking, based on survivors’ stories in South Asia.
Books on Human Trafficking in the United States
- In Our Backyard by Nita Belles
A comprehensive, myth-busting look at trafficking in the U.S.—with practical ways to help. - Walking Prey by Holly Austin Smith
A survivor’s firsthand account of being trafficked as a teenager in America, and how prevention and recovery really work.
Why This Matters
At Hagar, we believe that healing starts with understanding. This book list awakens empathy, deepens your connection to the cause, and equips you to be part of the solution.
Take Action
Share this reading list with a friend
Support survivors with a donation to Hagar’s trauma recovery programs
Together, we can create a world where every survivor is seen, heard, and empowered to thrive.
