Lost Boy

Lost Boy is the story of Jon, a boy who decides to leave his polygamous community, Unity, when he and the girl he loves, Celeste, are caught kissing. With the help of other “lost boys” like himself, one “lost girl” named Taviana, as well as a kind lady named Abigail, Jon is given every opportunity to succeed in Springdale, the neighbouring town. However, when Jon can’t find the perseverance required to catch up in school, he falls into a life of drinking and drugs. It is only through reconnecting with Celeste from his past life that he pulls himself out of the depths to find ultimate success.

Though Lost Boy is a simple read, with easy vocabulary and plot points, what sets it apart from much of the teen literature available is its sensitive subject nature. Many teens reading this novel may not have prior knowledge of polygamous communities and how they function. As such, Lost Boy can be used as tool to understanding other ways of life and the practice of polygamy. It is important to note that this novel does not advocate for polygamy but, instead, gently campaigns against it by contrasting the archaic and sexist ways of Unity with the modern and alluring ways of the outside world.

Marijuana, alcohol and homelessness are also predominantly featured in Lost Boy as Jon gives up on his schooling and, ultimately, himself, entering into a deadbeat lifestyle. However, when Jon is given the opportunity to rise up, he is able to overcome all obstacles and accept the opportunity willingly. In this sense, themes of poverty, perseverance, new beginnings and family are all overarching themes present in this novel.