After teaching for years, I realize that young adults (and full-fledged ones alike) need quality fiction that can provide an interesting story but also provoke thoughtful questions and discussion. I read this author's first novel, Cheating Lessons, and feel it lived up to my criteria in addition to being a thoroughly engrossing read. Cappo's new novel, Unaccounted For, didn't let me down either.
A solid mystery set in present-day Michigan, Unaccounted For revolves around 18 year-old Milo, who is dealing with his father's death, which, it turns out, may not be what it seems. As a result, not only must Milo step up to increased family responsibilities - no college now - but he also has to deal with his conflicted feelings regarding his father. Was he a good guy or a crook? A solid family man or a cheat? Engaging the help of his best friend, Zaffer, Milo works to find out some answers. This leads him to a new job with his father's former employer, Wolverine Motors. There, clues emerge, the tension builds, and the story's complexity is increased by Milo's blossoming friendship with the boss's daughter, Ellie, who is dealing with complicated father-child issues of her own.
Unaccounted For is rich with a well-paced story, continuing suspense, and an unexpected ending. The relationships are realistically complicated and the characters have to deal with adult issues while still being teenagers. Hero-worship and forgiveness are two themes which emerge and are well woven into the story. All in all, this is a novel that can satisfy both teens and adults alike.--Margaret Vanfossan on Amazon