Find a Stranger, Say Goodbye

Find a Stranger, Say Goodbye
ISBN: 0-44-20541-7
Author: Lois Lowry
Publisher:Bantam Double Day books, 1978


Plot Summary: Natalie Armstrong has a great family. She even wants to follow her father's footsteps and be a doctor. As she leaves for college, she decides to tell her parents, her adoptive parents, that she wants to find and meet her birth mother. Her parents are upset at first, but eventually accept it. Natalie follow several leads, using the telephone and traveling to meet her mom as the book takes place before the Internet.

When she finally meets her mother she is happy and realizes that they have some things in common but that she is also a great deal like her adoptive parents. Lowry uses a theme which has been in many books, but gives it dignity by portraying Natalie as an empowered teen seeking her identity.

Critical Analysis: Natalie's journey at this time in her life is normal as she wants very much to learn who she is before she begins her life. She is calm and reflective when discussing it with her parents and we see that she understands that it is as hard for them as it is for her.

Annotation: Before starting college, Natalie Armstrong decides to seek her biological mother. Her parents have a hard time but eventually support her decision.

Author: Lois Lowry has moved many places, and has a long list of great books. She won the Newbery Award for The Giver, and is a brilliant writer. To read more, please visit: www.loislowry.com

Genre: YA novel

Curriculum Ties: English, Sociology

Booktalking Ideas:
1.) Should her parents feel upset, or should they have anticipated this?
2.) What would you do if a friend asked you to help them find their birth parent?
3.) Do you think people should tell adopted children early or as a teen that they are adopted?

Reading Level: 15 and up/ 9th grade and up

Challenge Issues: There are none

Selection: I read about this book on Lowry's site and instantly wanted to read it. It offers Young Adults a chance to relate to the seeking of one's identity. At this developmental stage (15 and up) identity is important, and Lowry gives a dignified account of a girl's search.