Matthew S. Friedman Books

Matthew S. Friedman is a transformative author whose works encompass both fiction and non-fiction, resonating with themes of resilience, empowerment, and the human spirit. With a keen ability to weave personal narratives into universal truths, he captivates readers and inspires them to confront challenges with courage. His writing often explores the complexities of human experiences, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own journeys. Friedman’s voice is not only insightful but also motivational, fostering a sense of hope and determination. Through his diverse storytelling, he invites readers to embrace their vulnerabilities and harness their strengths, reminding us that growth often emerges from adversity. His contributions to literature serve as a beacon for those seeking inspiration and understanding in a rapidly changing world.

Awakening the Advocate: Memoirs of a Modern Slavery Activist

By Matthew S. Friedman

Summary: Matthew S. Friedman’s inspiring book is a guide to making a positive impact on the world. With over 35 years of activism, he shows that one person can create a ripple effect for global change. His powerful stories highlight the immense suffering in the world, while also showcasing the strength of those who fight against it. Friedman's message is clear: we all have the power to make a difference. This captivating sequel to ‘Where Were You: A Profile of Modern Slavery’ challenges and encourages readers to take action. Discover how a shy boy from New England dedicated his life to combating human trafficking across 40 countries. Join this unforgettable journey and help create a brighter future for all.

Frank Hilo

As with Mr Friedman’s numerous articles and books detailing the horrors of human trafficking, Memories of a Modern Slavery Activist opens with a litany of such trafficking stories. In its second section, the author’s formative years describe how various incidents and experiences led to his crusade against human trafficking. The author concludes with nine simple actions each citizen can do to create change. Read the book to learn how you can make a difference.

Ecualegacy

Matt Friedman does a heart-wrenching job of telling some of the harsher tales he’s witnessed or otherwise been told by victims of human trafficking, both into labor and sex slavery. It’s a wake-up call for the first half of the book. And he gives some practical ways at the end for people and businesses to get involved in the fight. The book's second half explores what brought Matt to where he is today, beginning with his childhood to young adulthood. I found it highly relatable and am very glad I read this book.

Where Were You: A Profile of Modern Slavery

By Matthew S. Friedman

Summary: Where Were You?: A Profile of Modern Slavery highlights the critical issue of human trafficking in Asia and the world, revealing a stark reality: more people are enslaved today than ever before. With over 35 years of experience and firsthand interviews with survivors, Friedman uncovers the modern slave trade, which flourishes in various industries. Despite the efforts of governments and organizations, only a small fraction of victims receive assistance. Friedman's insights call for a united and decisive approach to combat this global crime, inspiring readers to join the fight against modern slavery and make a difference in the lives of countless victims. This book addresses the entirety of this important subject.

Jennifer Roemhildt Tunehag

Must read for all. I highly recommend this book for everyone to read whether you are an inquirer or a veteran abolitionist. There is a growing list of literature to read on the topic of slavery and human trafficking, this one should be one of the first to read. In this new and very readable profile of modern slavery, Matt Friedman gives a well-balanced take on the issue, his experience, and what each of us can do practically to join the “second generation” abolition movement.

Peter J Mihara

Where Were You?: A Profile of Modern Slavery by Matthew S. Friedman, is a short text that has appeal for both the beginner and the veteran abolitionist. The theme of the book is really that of Friedman’s personal experience as a counter trafficking agent over the past few decades. Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book. I felt the author’s transparency was very inspiring.

Be the Hero: Be the Change

By Matthew S. Friedman

Summary: Matthew Friedman emphasizes the power of collective action in addressing global issues like climate change, poverty, and modern slavery. Friedman, a seasoned humanitarian, believes that every individual has untapped heroism within them, capable of affecting real change through small acts of kindness. He encourages readers to identify a cause they are passionate about and take personal responsibility for it. This transformative guide serves as a roadmap for individuals seeking purpose and meaning in their lives by motivating them to serve their communities. By nurturing our inherent goodness and taking action, we can join together to create significant, positive change in the world. This is one of the few textbooks on volunteerism.

Deborah Llewellyn

This book grabs you in the first chapter. It has an easy-to-read format with a compelling message in each chapter that shows how individual actions can add up to big social change. Each chapter includes narrative experiences of real people that bring meaning to the chapter's message. It includes a step-by-step approach for choosing a compelling cause and taking action. Highly recommended!

Miwa C

Be the Hero: Be the Change” presents the opportunity for individuals to seek the meaning and purpose that everyone may desire to find at some point in their lives. The compelling stories and rich lessons compiled by Matt over the years in combatting human trafficking will no doubt inspire us all to pause and reflect, to consider using our gifts and talents, our spheres of influence to take that one action to help protect vulnerable people living in poverty and oppression. A timely read.

Storytelling: The Art of Inspirational Public Speaking

By Matthew S. Friedman

Summary: It’s time to revolutionize how we communicate. Traditional presentations bog us down, but powerful storytelling can ignite minds and shift perspectives. This transformative guide invites you to embrace your voice and captivate your audience. Matthew Friedman, a seasoned speaker with over 35 years of experience, reveals the art of engaging storytelling and fresh presentation styles that will leave a lasting impact. By breaking through the ordinary, you can connect with people in meaningful ways. Step into your potential to inspire, teach, and influence. Let's capture attention, spark change, and make every word count on the journey to becoming an extraordinary speaker!

Jacob Park

A wonderful reminder to some, and a HUGE lesson to others, that stories convey powerful messages that convey timeless truths. I used to think that people were "natural story tellers", but Matt helped me realize that it's a skill that pretty much anyone can pick up and hone into a powerful tool.

Jae A

Matt Friedman uses tips and examples from his own personal life to help guide and challenge the reader on how to be a more effective speaker. This book has been a huge resource especially now that I'm required to speak more in a new job role. Overall, Matthew Friedman’s speaking tips are very useful and I would highly recommend!

Dancing in the Light of the Moon

By Matthew S. Friedman

Summary: Dancing in the Light of the Moon focuses on four middle-class children from Pune who are displaced and effectively orphaned after their mother and father are murdered by the Mumbai mafia. Over a twelve-year period, they struggle to reclaim their identity following this life-altering tragedy. Through the unrelenting efforts of these children to take control of their lives and destinies, we see the power of resilience. This novel is a heartwrenching tale of love, life, overcoming adversity, corruption, and evil, which provides an illuminating glimpse into the murky underworld of organized crime in South Asia. It celebrates the human spirit struggling to endure against seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Inspired by true events, this story was based on the author Matthew Friedman’s interviews with hundreds of people and extensive research carried out in different parts of India over a decade.

Lucía

A profoundly thought-provoking book that sheds light on the harrowing realities of human trafficking and modern slavery. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about these urgent global challenges.

Andrew H

Matt Friedman is a brilliant writer. His 40-year history of fighting human trafficking is very apparent in this story. I caught myself holding my breath many times while reading this book. The story captivated you from page one until the very last page. I could not put this book down. I have already ordered another book by him. He is also an incredible speaker and conversationalist.

Afghan Girl

By Matthew S. Friedman

Summary: Set in the era when Afghanistan was at war, what would happen if a traditional Afghan girl – someone who understood, internalized, and accepted her culture’s strict social norms and values – were to be given a taste of true freedom following a terrible earthquake that erased her memory? What if, for a time, she was able to experience love, life and liberty -- unconstrained, unencumbered -- the way a man might? And what if she was then forced to make a choice between these two extremes after regaining her memory – either accepting a woman’s expected role in society or seeking to maintain that sense of self-determination and free will once again? What would she do? Afghan Girl explores these questions through the eyes of Nadia, a fifteen-year-old girl from rural Afghanistan who is faced with this reality.

Barry Van Engelenhoven

It was a fantastic story. Interestingly, with Nadia and Ali corresponding for a long time through a hole in the wall connecting them, they fell in Love. This reminds me of the internet and chatrooms in which people fall in love the same way, with the deep emotional words and ways they correspond with each other, with no physical contact at all. The ending was abrupt. Loved it, read it straight from the beginning to the end with no break.

Larry Cano

A wonderful read by a writer who demonstrates a keen understanding of and empathy for other cultures and the tremendous constraints that can be imposed by cultural norms. Set against the universal theme of love between two people, Afghan Girl explores this territory with a richness, texture and caring that is truly moving. A much-needed book for our times in understanding what is happening in an area of the world that is affecting all of us on a daily basis.

Where Were You?
Matt Friedman | TEDxWanChaiWomen

Human trafficking is a global issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Many victims have harrowing stories, while others may never have the opportunity to share their experiences. After witnessing trafficked individuals on the streets of Nepal during his time as a public health officer, Matt Friedman dedicated the next 35 years to anti–trafficking activism and fundraising. He raises important questions about how we can shift public attitudes toward human trafficking, engage more individuals in the cause, and ultimately end modern-day slavery. Friedman is an international expert on human trafficking, with extensive experience as a manager, program designer, evaluator, and frontline responder. He is currently the CEO of The Mekong Club, an organization composed of Hong Kong-based business leaders who have united to combat human trafficking in Asia.

( FAQ's )

Frequently Asked Questions

You're not alone. These answers offer insight into my mission, my work, and how we can all be part of something greater than ourselves.

What inspired you to write about human trafficking and modern slavery?

My journey began over 35 years ago when I witnessed firsthand the suffering of those trapped in exploitation. I couldn’t turn away. Sharing these stories is my way of amplifying voices that too often go unheard.

Are your books based on real experiences?

Yes. Each book draws from real events, people, and lessons I’ve learned while working across more than 40 countries. My aim is to offer truth, hope, and a call to action.

Who should read your books?

Anyone looking for purpose, change, or a deeper understanding of the world’s challenges—and their own potential to be part of the solution.

How can I get involved in the causes you talk about?

Start where you are. Whether it’s volunteering, spreading awareness, or simply being kind, small actions can create powerful ripples. My books offer steps to begin that journey.

What’s the core message behind your work?

Hope. No matter how dark the situation, there is always a path forward. My work is about helping people find it—and walk it with courage.

Do you offer talks or workshops?

Absolutely. I speak globally to inspire change, educate on modern slavery, and help individuals tap into their purpose. Every talk is a chance to spark transformation.

Do you have
something to say?

If my books have inspired you, challenged your thinking, or sparked questions, I would love to hear from you.

Whether you’re interested in collaboration, inviting me to speak, sharing your story, or simply saying hello, your voice is important to me. Let’s keep the dialogue flowing— because real change begins with connection.

Warmest regards

Matthew S. Friedman