I think that her request to be left alone to figure her life out is reasonable and just. And–though it may seem strange to others–I can understand her not wanting to be folded back into the family she had when she was eight, not until she can figure out the world today and who she is in it. I hope there is a safe place for her to come slowly into herself. And to go through some of the physical growth that was denied her, too.

If people can leave her alone and give her space, she may someday have an important story to tell. One only has to remember Steven Stayner to see how badly things can go for a child hostage trying to return to “normal” life.

Catherine Atkins’ novel When Jeff Came Home explores a year (I think) in the life of a boy returned after a four year abduction by a pedophile. The length of the book passes before he is ready to begin to confide in his loving father.

There’s another thought provoking book, Raised in Captivity, which explores the powerlessness of children in families. I can’t help but seeing the parallels between this girl’s ordeal and the most abusive of households. I’m so glad she was able to walk away.