The Year We Disappeared: A Father-Daughter Memoir

There's little doubt that this blog is read by adults - readers perhaps, parents perhaps - but few if any teens. Yet, I think there is value in talking to you about a singular memoir that, for whatever reason, has been parked in the young adult market by Bloomsbury.

The Year We Disappeared

Cylin Busby's life was changed in an instant at the age of nine. She loved the Muppets and her pet box turtle. But when her police officer father (and co-author) John was the victim of an attempted assassination, everything changed.

The Year We Disappeared: A Father-Daughter Memoir is their story of a life on the run, hiding out from the criminals who wanted John Busby dead.

I mention the book simply because you won't hear about it otherwise - and then you will. So very many books come out each year that it's hard for us, much less you, to know when a good one arrives unless the mass media (or Oprah) tell you to buy a book. Frankly, I resent that, but since our Web sites will never be mass media, I hope the discerning among you will investigate further (click on the image for more details or to buy it from us online).

Our Sophie has read the book and warns that it is not for the youngest - it's a little too scary and the injuries to John Busby are described quite graphically. But for a mature teen 14 and up, it's a gripping story. In fact, it offers the best of what books can do - it gives a life lesson in bravery that few will ever have to experience. It's important to know these things, but not quite necessary to live them.

For true crime aficionados or anyone looking for a remarkable memoir that will give you a great story to tell at your next watercooler stop, I invite you to check it out.