Raised in a polygamous community, Jon starts to question the rules of his faith. After he is caught kissing a girl, he is forced to flee his town and the only life he knows. He finds a community of other Lost Boys, or "polygs," but is utterly unprepared for life outside his community of Unity. He spirals into a life of numbing booze, drugs and homelessness. When he hits rock bottom, someone from his past enters his new life and helps him find his way.
Jon and several of the novel’s other characters were introduced in Shelley Hrdlitschka's earlier novel Sister Wife.
Jon and several of the novel’s other characters were introduced in Shelley Hrdlitschka's earlier novel Sister Wife.
"What sets it apart from much of the teen literature available is its sensitive subject nature…Lost Boy can be used as tool to understanding other ways of life and the practice of polygamy…Themes of poverty, perseverance, new beginnings and family are all overarching themes present in this novel. Recommended"
– CM: Canadian Review of Materials
"Jon's voice gives readers the opportunities to explore what it can be like adjusting to a different way of life."
– Resource Links
"Teens will appreciate the surprising and satisfying ending. A great addition to libraries looking to add some standalone titles."
– School Library Journal
"The story propels readers and gives them insight into the appeal of lives where decisions are made for you."
– Booklist
"Hrdlitschka provides a satisfying conclusion that is hopeful yet realistic and leaves readers with no doubt that Jon still has a lot of work ahead of him. Well written and thoroughly researched, Lost Boy offers a brief but thorough look into religious polygamy and cult dynamics in a realistic and matter-of-fact way."
– Quill & Quire
CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens | 2019 | Commended
