Stolen by Lucy Christopher

Stolen by Lucy Christopher
The Chicken House publishers
ISBN: 978-0545170932
Grades 9 - 12
Positive reviews from SLJ and Booklist

We often wonder how someone who has been kidnapped falls into the Stockholm syndrome but this insight, well written book, not only shows how but also creates the same torn feelings within the reader. This novel is written as one long letter to the kidnapper by Gemma, a sixteen year old girl who was abducted at the airport. Waking up in the desert outback of Australia, she is alone with a young 25 year old man who feels that he is saving her from the duplicity of modern life. With no where to go and without the skills to live in the desert, Gemma is bound to Ty in ways that slowly destroy her sense of independence. Yet Ty respects her, does not hurt her nor assaults her in any way, giving strength to his character. Despite the fear and isolation, Gemma grows in awareness, growing to love the desert in all its beauty as well as falling in love with the gentle side of Ty. When she is bitten by an ader, Ty does the ultimate sacrifice and takes her in for medical care, knowing full well that he will be arrested, removing him from the land he loves.

The novel is powerful in its insightful introspection as well as literary visualizations and analogies. It would be outstanding as a read aloud in a high school setting where discussions are needed about right/wrong, love/ hate, and individual perspectives. Written as part of Christopher's doctorial program, it is remarkable in that it is her debut novel. This is a superbly written book that I would not hesitate to purchase and recommend to both young men and women.