They Never Came Back

They Never Came Back by Caroline B. Cooney

Cooney writes the story of a girl who was deserted by her parents at the age of ten.  Murielle’s past and Cathy’s present are presented in alternating chapters.  The reader will no doubt guess early on that Cathy and Murielle are indeed the same person, but the suspense comes from wondering if Cathy will find a way to reunite with her parents.  Action is centered on the issue of whether she has an obligation to society and its justice system or to her own family.   It is a story of selfishness and self-sacrifice and the deep connection of family.