Missing May
| Company type | Children's novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founded | March 1, 1992 |
| Founder | Cynthia Rylant |
| Products | Children's literature |
| Parent | Orchard Books |
Missing May is a children's novel authored by Cynthia Rylant, who received the 1993 Newbery Medal for her work. Rylant, known for writing over 100 books for young readers including The Islander, released this title through Orchard Books in 1992.
Plot
The narrative takes place in contemporary West Virginia and centers on Summer, a young orphan shuffled between uncaring relatives until her Aunt May and Uncle Ob welcome her into their trailer home in the Appalachian region. With their support, Summer experiences the warmth of a true family.
Tragedy strikes six years later when Aunt May passes away unexpectedly, leaving Summer heartbroken and Uncle Ob deeply sorrowful. Convinced that May’s spirit attempts to reach out, Uncle Ob enlists the help of Cletus Underwood, Summer’s quirky schoolmate, to find a reputed medium. Their journey reveals that the medium has recently died, which initially shatters Uncle Ob. However, during their return trip, he finds renewed determination to live on for Summer’s benefit.
Characters
- Summer – The central character and narrator; an orphan who faced neglect before being embraced by Aunt May and Uncle Ob. She copes with profound loss following May’s death and fears for Uncle Ob’s emotional state.
- Uncle Ob – Husband to May and Summer’s uncle, recognized for his craftsmanship in carving whirligigs. He sinks into despair after May’s passing but pursues hope by attempting to connect with her spirit.
- Cletus – An eccentric classmate of Summer who befriends Uncle Ob. Claiming to have experienced a near-death event himself, he encourages Ob’s belief in spiritual contact and joins them on their emotional quest.
Publication
Orchard Books published the novel on March 1, 1992.
Reception
Publishers Weekly commended Summer for its straightforward and candid narrative voice, occasionally infused with irony and subtle humor, while noting some emotional distance from the protagonist’s mourning. Kirkus Reviews described it as "a beautifully written, life-affirming book."