About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their child is beginning to navigate the world independently and needs to understand how to trust their instincts during a crisis. While the story begins with the sudden, jarring death of a father, it quickly transforms into a high-stakes survival thriller. It is an ideal choice for preteens who are ready to explore complex themes of grief, stranger danger, and the blurred lines between kindness and threat. The narrative follows eleven-year-old Jackie, stranded in Italy, as she is taken by two men who may or may not have her best interests at heart. Through Jackie's eyes, readers experience the suffocating weight of mourning alongside the sharp, clear-headed necessity of escape. It is a powerful tool for discussing personal safety and the inner strength required to face terrifying unknowns. Parents should be aware that the book handles the father's death with stark realism, making it best suited for mature middle-schoolers.
