"Using the methodology of feminist legal analysis, this book makes a major contribution to the scholarship on child marriage. It examines domestic law in the context of international human rights law, and shows how this custom violates every human right to which a child is entitled, including the right to health, education, equality, liberty, and security of person, and of course, the right to make a free and informed choice of a spouse. The role of civil society in challenging the status quo is also highlighted." "Addressing a significant social evil, this book is important for scholars of law and gender studies, as well as sociologists, activists, and NGO's working with children and women."--Jacket.