Printz Winner - Where thing come back by John Corey Whaley

 
Whaley, J. (2011). Where things come back: A novel (p. 240). New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers.

Themes: Grief, Suicide, Friendship, Family

Characters: Cullen, Cabot, Gabriel, John Barling, Benton, Alma, Lucas

Summary:

The story is about the Witter family and their life in Lily, Arkansas. Cullen is a high school senior who is dealing with his cousin’s death. He and his friend, Lucas, go on a double date with Alma. Alma is recently divorced. Later that night, we find out Cullen’s younger brother, Gabriel, gets kidnap. The news of the kidnapping takes a step back because John Barling has discovered a Lazarus, an extinct bird. At the same time, we learn about Belton. He goes to Ethiopia on missionary. He return and attends the University of Atlanta. He meets Cabot, his new roommate and Alma’s boyfriend. He and Alma get married because of a pregnancy scare. During Christmas, Belton commits suicide. Cabot goes through Belton’s things and is convinced he need to do God’s work.  Alma files for divorce and moves back home, Lily, Arkansas.

Cabot follows her and finds out she is dating Culler. Cabot attempts to kidnap Culler but kidnaps Gabriel. As Cabot and Gabriel are waiting, a news caption read “No chances in Lily, Arkansas.” Cabot takes that as a sign and return Gabriel.

I would recommend the age group for this book to be 14 – 18. The book does contain violence and suicide.