Clay

Elsie and her brother have been kidnapped -- by their mother

Eleven-year-old Elsie McPhee and her younger, autistic brother, Tommy, live discreetly with their mother; they are home-schooled and constantly cautioned not to converse with strangers. It's a lonely existence for Elsie, and right when she's finally decided to skirt her mother's rules and make a friend, Mom whisks the kids off to another nondescript furnished apartment in a different state. This latest sudden move spurs Elsie to remember the events of four years ago, when her mother abducted her and Tommy, who were in the sole custody of their father. Then Tommy becomes ill and Mom won't consult a doctor. Elsie must weigh the meaning of past wrongs and use all her courage to make a decision that could change things forever.

Colby Rodowsky has written a novel that will bring readers to the edge of their seats.

Colby Rodowsky is the author of many books for children and young adults, including Not My Dog, an ALA Notable Book, and Spindrift, which School Library Journal called a "well-paced, affectionate story" in a starred review. She lives in Baltimore, Maryland.