If You Find Me Book Summary - If You Find Me Book explained in key points

If You Find Me summary

Emily Murdoch

Brief summary

If You Find Me by Emily Murdoch is a gripping novel that follows the story of Carey, a teenage girl who has been living in the woods with her younger sister. When they are discovered and brought back into society, Carey must confront her past and navigate the challenges of her new life.

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    If You Find Me
    Summary of key ideas

    Surviving in the Wilderness

    Emily Murdoch's If You Find Me is a gripping tale of survival, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between two sisters. The story begins with Carey and her younger sister Jenessa living in a desolate forest, isolated from the outside world. Their mother had taken them away from their abusive father, but she eventually abandoned them, leaving the girls to fend for themselves. Carey, who was only five at the time, had to take care of Jenessa, who was just a baby, and the two had to learn to survive in the wilderness.

    For years, Carey and Jenessa lived in a rusted-out camper, away from civilization. They hunted for food, collected rainwater, and adapted to the harsh conditions of their environment. Despite their circumstances, Carey made sure that Jenessa was safe and happy, creating a world of imagination and games to shield her from the harsh reality. Carey's love and devotion to her sister are unwavering, and she does everything in her power to protect her.

    A New World

    One day, two strangers, their father and his wife, stumble upon the girls' makeshift home. The authorities had discovered their existence, and now, they were being forced back into the real world. Carey is initially resistant to the idea, fearing that they would be separated and that she would lose Jenessa, who still hasn't spoken a word since their mother left. However, the authorities assure her that they would stay together, and the girls are taken to live with their father and his family.

    The transition from the forest to the civilized world is challenging for Carey and Jenessa. The sudden change in lifestyle, the overwhelming presence of people, and the haunting memories of their past make it difficult for them to adjust. Carey, in particular, struggles to fit in, feeling like an outsider in a world she doesn't understand. She keeps her past a secret, unwilling to share the truth about their mother and their life in the forest.

    Confronting the Past

    As Carey begins attending a public high school, she meets a boy named Ryan who sees through her tough exterior. He tries to break down her walls and understand her, but Carey is hesitant to let anyone in. She is also burdened by the responsibility of keeping Jenessa safe and happy, and her fear of losing her sister makes her hesitant to form any attachments.

    As the story progresses, Carey's past comes back to haunt her. Her father is arrested, and she is forced to confront the truth about their mother and the reasons they were abandoned in the forest. The revelation is both shocking and heartbreaking, and it forces Carey to reevaluate her life and her relationship with her sister.

    Acceptance and Healing

    In the end, If You Find Me is a story of acceptance, healing, and the power of love. Carey comes to terms with her past and finds the strength to move forward. She opens up to Ryan and learns to trust him, and together, they help Jenessa find her voice and start the healing process.

    Despite the challenges they face, Carey and Jenessa emerge resilient and stronger. They overcome their traumatic past and learn to embrace their new life. Carey realizes that she doesn't have to carry the burden of their past alone and that she has people who care about her and are willing to help. The bond between the sisters remains unbreakable, and they find solace in each other as they begin their journey towards a brighter future.

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    What is If You Find Me about?

    If You Find Me by Emily Murdoch is a gripping and emotional novel that delves into themes of survival, family, and the resiliency of the human spirit. The story follows 15-year-old Carey and her younger sister Jenessa, who have been living in the woods with their unstable mother. When they are discovered and brought back into the real world, they must confront their traumatic past and navigate a new reality. This thought-provoking book will keep you hooked until the very end.

    If You Find Me Review

    If You Find Me (2013) is a gripping novel by Emily Murdoch that delves into the compelling story of two sisters living in the wilderness and their journey to navigate through trauma and secrets. Here's why this book is definitely worth your time:

    • Featuring a heart-wrenching tale of survival, resilience, and sisterhood, it immerses readers in a poignant and emotional narrative.
    • With complex characters and intricate relationships, the book offers a deep exploration of personal growth, trust, and forgiveness.
    • The unexpected twists and turns in the plot, combined with unveiling hidden truths, ensure that the story remains intriguing and far from dull.

    Who should read If You Find Me?

    • Readers who enjoy emotionally impactful stories

    • Those who appreciate complex and authentic characters

    • People who are interested in exploring themes of resilience, survival, and family

    About the Author

    Emily Murdoch is an author known for her captivating storytelling and ability to create complex, memorable characters. Her book, If You Find Me, is a powerful and emotional tale that explores themes of survival, family, and resilience. Murdoch's writing has been praised for its raw honesty and ability to deeply connect with readers. Through her work, she has established herself as a talented voice in the world of contemporary fiction.

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    If You Find Me FAQs 

    What is the main message of If You Find Me?

    The main message of If You Find Me revolves around resilience and the power of family bonds.

    How long does it take to read If You Find Me?

    The estimated reading time for If You Find Me is moderate. The Blinkist summary can be read in a short time.

    Is If You Find Me a good book? Is it worth reading?

    If You Find Me is worth reading for its emotional depth and captivating storytelling.

    Who is the author of If You Find Me?

    The author of If You Find Me is Emily Murdoch.

    What to read after If You Find Me?

    If you're wondering what to read next after If You Find Me, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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    • Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
    • Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
    • Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
    • Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
    • Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
    • The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright