Born Into Brothels: Photographs by the Children of Calcutta

by Zana Briski

A powerful story that unfolds in the red-light district of Calcutta: a photographer that becomes a teacher and the extraordinary children she meets who learn to dream with cameras in their hands. Accompanies an Academy Award-winning documentary.

Genres: Nonfiction, Travel, Photography

104 pages, Hardcover

First published July 1, 2005

Reviews

[Jessica Jones]

This book is a beautiful hard-bound edition of photographs taken by the children of the Red Light District in Calcutta.

The book's editor, Zana Briski, founded non-profit "Kids With Cameras", and dedicates all proceeds to the education and welfare of marginalized children around the world.

I recently had the opportunity of meeting Briski after a showing of her film documentary, "Born Into Brothels", at the College of Wooster, and she was an incredible person: inspired, humble, forthright. As well as being an apparently amazing photography teacher.

Other beautiful books and photos are available on the foundation website at: www.kids-with-cameras.org.

[Eileen]

This follows on a brilliant documentary that I saw at the Seattle International Film Festival. I found it worthwhile as part of a fundraising effort but I guess I'll be the monster who opines that as a photography book it's not terribly strong. Its subjects show poverty intimately but it's the story and the need being sold, not the work, in my opinion. Do help and encourage children, but see the film instead.

[Roniq]

I had a chance to see this film three times in the Theatre. The third being when Zana Briski the author and creator of www.kids-with-cameras.org was here for the Seattle International Film Festival one year. I stayed after to speak to her and to have her sign my book. She was so gracious when I told her how much I loved the film. A remarkable woman with a remarkable heart. She brought to light a side of Calcutta few have ever seen and created a way for it's children to express themselves and create new lives. If you haven't seen this film, I HIGHLY recommend it. The children will touch your heart, guaranteed.

[Rebecca]

The money goes to an excellent cause. One of the boys in the book is attending Rhelms of Inquiry here in Salt Lake. Where we spend our money matters. It is also very interesting look at Indian children who are born and raised in the brothels of Calcutta.

[Morgan Djuna Sorais Harrigan]

After seeing the documentary, I wanted a deeper look. It was not easy to take.

[Kathleen]

Haunting. Rebecca and I.

[Kelly]

The photos are raw and telling, almost painful to look at. But beautifully done by children.