This book certainly received some high ratings. It reminded me of The Lovely Bones, although more depressing, if you can imagine that. I actually don't mind sad books, disturbing books, even depressing books...if there is something positive gained from it. The book is well-written, and I like that the key characters each had a "voice", narrating their own chapters. But, I couldn't find anything positive in it - no redeeming quality or character. I really didn't like the majority of the characters, other than Katie herself. It may simply be too depressing for even me!
Clare was pathetically needy. I would never be so needy as to end up with a man like Raymond. I would rather live alone for the rest of my life. Seriously. I didn't understand that Ray was a drug fiend right away. I just thought he was a cruel jerk - who, for his own ulterior motives (mainly gaining money through blackmail), helped out the odd-duck neighbor. And Mr. Dees. What's up with him? Envious of the beautiful family who really loved each other, or a pedophile?? Did he want Katie as his own daughter (like he told himself) or was he attracted to her sexually? And although I don't believe Gilley should feel guilty for ratting his sister out about the library books, I certainly believe that Mr. Dees should accept his share of blame for Katie's demise. How awful that he left her with Ray when he had a chance to walk away with her!! What a coward!!
Let's see....then there is Katie's dad. I obviously completely understand his anger and devastation regarding the disappearance of Katie. What I don't understand is him going to Mr. Dees to help him? Why did he even believe Mr. Dees?? Mr. Dees had already done very extremely questionable things regarding Katie - and admitted to them (mostly). As a father, why would he trust Mr. Dees? On top of that, he gets Gilley involved - who has to carry it with him the rest of his life - on top of his personal guilt of mentioning the library books to his father.
So, everyone carries on with their lives. Mr. Dees moves. The Mackeys move. Small town America moves on - so much that they don't even recognize Mr. Dees when he comes back to visit years later and the disappearance of Katie is just a memory. What can we take from this story that might be even a tad positive? Nothing. (In my opinion of course). Again, a well-written novel, but I need a little bit a happiness, or fulfillment, or positivity in a book.
Wendy's Rating: ***1/2
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