Dr. Barb’s Book Byts

Catherine Ryan Hyde – A Different Kind of Gone

When a young lady named Jill Moss disappeared while camping, Norma, a rescue worker was called into action. The very unique rescue worker searches in very remote areas on her old horse. She finds Jill, and helps her escape from the abusive boyfriend, yet does not report her find to the authorities. For the next five years, the search goes on until the case comes to charge the abusive boyfriend with her murder. The decision made by both the women’s actions, lends to the twists and turns of the story, keeping the reader in suspense.

The author’s questions at the end of the book for book clubs guided our discussion into some of the deeper issues hidden inside the story. The emotional decisions of both women tied them together through each of their histories as well as with another victim of the abusive boyfriend. This story could be used with readers facing abusive relationships to work through the issue and gain confidence. A hidden issue that could also be discussed was the fact that Jill’s disappearance made the major news media and became a topic that was covered for five years. Norma brings up the issue that some cases get over covered while so many others go lost and forgotten.

Another hidden issue that generated discussion with the book group, was whether Norma was in the right or wrong by not reporting her find to the authorities. The use of resources looking for Jill stretched on for 5 years. Those resources could have been utilized to help others instead. Yet Jill was safe, and turning her in, would have endangered her life. So was Norma’s decision right or wrong?

The story has a couple of hidden twists near the end of the story that keeps the reader on edge, and blends the plot well. Very enjoyable read!

Feel free to share your thoughts on the book in the comments below. Our book club would love to hear your feedback!

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