Lost Spring: Stories of

Stolen Childhood
This book by Anees Jung uncovers the harsh reality of child labor and
poverty in India. The stories offer insight into the plight of millions of
children who fall victim to economic and social injustice.
Overview of the Author
Anees Jung Indian journalist, author, and educationist

Education Master's degree in English Literature from

University of Rajasthan

Career Jung has written extensively about

marginalized communities in India,
particularly women and children. She has
received many awards for her work.
Examples of Stories from the Book

Chhotu's Dream The Price of Flowers Lost Spring

Chhotu, a boy who dreams of One girl's dream of going to A young boy, Saheb, works in
learning how to read, is school is crushed as she is a brick factory instead of
forced to work at a tea stall to forced to work in a fireworks going to school and loses his
help support his family. factory to pay back a debt. right to have a childhood.
Impact on Society
Social Inequality

The root causes of child labor and poverty

are often tied to systemic issues such as
income inequality and lack of access to
resources such as healthcare and
education.

1 2 3

Lost Potential Human Rights Violations

Child labor and poverty rob children of the Child labor is a grave violation of basic
opportunity to receive an education and human rights as children are denied the
create a better future for themselves. chance to be carefree and live a normal
childhood.
Reflection on the Importance of
Understanding This Issue
Lost Spring offers heartbreaking accounts of the reality of child labor and poverty in India. It is
important that we understand the scale of this issue in order to be able to work towards real
solutions and make a difference in the lives of millions of children.
Themes of Lost Spring
Hope Injustice Dehumanization

The book highlights the The stories depict the Child labor and poverty
resilience and strength of inequality and injustice strip children of their
children who continue to that are inherent in the basic human rights and
dream and hope for a systems that enable child leave them vulnerable to
better future despite the labor and poverty. exploitation and abuse.
challenges they face.
Characters in Lost Spring
Chhotu
A young boy who wishes to
learn how to read and write
and better his life, but is
forced to work in a tea stall to
support his family.
Soni
A young girl working in a
graveyard who dreams of
becoming independent and
educated but must first pay
off a family debt.
Saheb
A young boy living in a slum
who has to work in a brick
factory to support his family,
giving up his childhood and
his dreams in the process.
Narrative Style and Structure of the Book
Narrative Style Structure Tone
The stories are presented in The book is organized The tone of the book is
a straightforward and thematically, with stories somber and reflective,
honest manner, depicting centered around a common aimed at creating empathy
the stark reality of the theme such as poverty or and awareness for the plight
situation. the loss of childhood. of underprivileged children.
Relevance of Lost Spring in
Contemporary Times
Child labor and poverty continue to be major issues in many parts of
the world today. Studying Lost Spring can help us to better
understand the mechanisms of poverty and create tangible solutions
for those affected.
Essays Related to the Story
1 The Societal Impact 2 Effective Ways to 3 The Importance of
of Child Labor Combat Child Intersecting Issues
Labor in Creating
Analyze the impact of Examines the best Solutions
child labor on society practices for How to address child
and the key drivers addressing the issue of labor and poverty as
behind the problem. child labor and poverty. they relate to other
systemic problems like
healthcare access and
education.
Solutions and Ways to Help End Child
Labor and Poverty

1 Educate Yourself and Others

Learn about the issue of child labor and poverty and the root causes of the problem.
Share your knowledge with your community and elected officials.

2 Support Ethical Companies

Choose to buy from companies whose products are not produced using child labor.

3 Support Local Organizations

Find local organizations working to combat child labor and poverty and support
them in their efforts.

4 Advocate for Policy Change

Put pressure on elected officials to create policies that protect children from
exploitation and support families in poverty.
Conclusion and Discussion
Lost Spring offers an intimate and honest view into the lives of some
of the world's most vulnerable citizens. It is important that we use
these stories to create action and turn the tide on child labor and
poverty. Consider ways in which you can get involved in your
community.