The Case of the Vanishing Boy

Way back in elementary school, I absolutely *adored* Alexander Key's books. His recurring themes of lost children or intelligent animals (all of whom are very unique and special in one way or another) must resonate in just about every child lucky enough to read his books. He weaves compelling adventures every time, as his characters work through their loneliness and fear. There's an amazing otter, a boy genius, and handicapped children confined to a hospital wing, just to name a few.One at a time I checked out his books from the local library. Unfortunately, The Case of The Vanishing Boy was not in their collection. I wish I had experienced it back then.I read it a couple of weeks ago, and it was very hard to put down. I'd force myself not to stay up too late reading it. Big mistake. As an adult, I found myself analyzing and anticipating plot developments. Very unfortunate, as I was accurate quite a few times. I highly recommend that you read it all in one sitting (it's short enough to allow for that). You can be swept up in the plot without thinking much about it.Does anyone know why The Forgotten Door seems to be the only book still published? All of Alexander Key's stories merit immediate reprinting!I'd give the vanishing boy 5 stars except ... don't worry, I won't give anything away. But if you're like me and don't want to know any little thing in advance, stop reading right here....The only disappointment I had was the sudden ending. Drawing closer to the end of the story, the action was building and driving along full force. All of a sudden, it was over. Just a few more pages would have been nice; The Forgotten Door has a beautiful epilogue that greatly enhances your reading experience. Again, this is just a grown-up's point of view. It'd be great to hear from some kids!

Despite the current abundance of mindcrime and psionics on the market today, I keep finding myself drawn back to this one, now dogeared smudged from rereading. Intelligent science fiction in a kid's book is not something I'm used to turning up - and this book got me through grade school when the only alternatives on my budget were my father's Jung and Kipling.There's no comparison here to Kipling or his ilk - the language is comfortable but not flowery - but in terms of story, as well as a place to come back to, this book remains a good friend. Besieged as we are these days with family values and violence on the telly, my daughter will find this book on her shelf when she begins reading - coffee stains and all.Should I happen to find it at a yard sale or somewhere online, a second copy will join (but not replace) the one I keep under my bed with the family photos and computer manuals.

This is an excellent book, full of psychic powers and thrilling adventure. I wore out the copy at my local library when I was a child, I have been searching for another copy for years. Highly recommended.

I am 27 years old and I have had this book since I was in 7th grade! One of the best books I have ever read! Jan has powers I sometimes wish I had! Would love a better copy! Should be reprinted!