Disappeared, written by Francisco X. Stork, reviewed by Stephanie Wilson

Summary:  Young women in Juarez, Mexico fear being kidnapped and disappearing forever. Sara and her friend Linda travel together every day because it's safer. Sara writes stories for the local newspaper about the girls who have disappeared. She never dreams Linda will become one of the disappeared. Someone sends threatening letters and emails to the newspaper. They want Linda to stop writing about the missing girls. Life in Juarez is challenging. Sara's brother Emiliano wants a better life than his single mother can provide. His business of selling folk art products catches the attention of some businessmen who want to sell his folk art across the border. When Sara's work and Emiliano's business goals collide, they flee Juarez for the safety of the United States.

Stork’s novel captures the gritty details of life across the border in Mexico. He realistically portrays the dangers of human trafficking and the drug cartels. The novel moves at a rapid pace which heightens the immediacy of the story. The narration moves between Sara’s voice and Emiliano’s voice. The contrast is staggering. Sara always wants to do the right thing no matter what the cost. Emiliano struggles with how to get the various pieces of his life to fall into place. His love for Perla Rubi threatens to overwhelm his better judgment.

Straight Talk for Librarians:  The novel sensitively handles difficult topics. Sara and Emiliano are relatable characters who arguably struggle with more mature problems than the average teen. The novel shines a light on the difficulties immigrants face at the border between the U.S. and Mexico. A just cause or fears for personal safety often aren’t enough to be admitted into the U.S. legally. The novel describes human trafficking, the illegal drug trade, theft, underage drinking, and kidnapping. For these reasons, it is recommended for mature students only. I highly recommend this novel for young adult readers.