For thirteen years, Bethany’s parents have kept a devastating, life-changing secret about their family’s past. Now it’s time for Bethany to discover the truth. Check out Double Identity by Margaret Peterson Haddix.
Author: Margaret Peterson Haddix
For thirteen years, Bethany’s parents have kept a devastating, life-changing secret about their family’s past. Now it’s time for Bethany to discover the truth. Check out Double Identity by Margaret Peterson Haddix.
Unanswered Questions
Just before her thirteenth birthday, Bethany’s parents drive to Sanderfield, Illinois and drop her off at her aunt Myrlie’s house—an aunt she’s never met. Without explaining, her parents drive away, leaving Bethany with many unanswered questions. Where are they going? Why can’t she go with them? And most of all, why is her mother always crying these days?A Life-Changing Phone Call
Aunt Myrlie is a kind woman, but she’s also a stranger. And Bethany can’t help but pray for her parents to come back. When her father calls, he hides information from her, leaving Bethany more confused and frustrated than ever. But when her mother phones a few nights later, she sounds delusional, thinking Bethany’s name is Elizabeth. Who’s Elizabeth? That’s when the secrets of her family’s devastating past begin to unravel.
Devastating Family Secrets
Bethany learns that her parents once had another child named Elizabeth. She was tall and blonde, just like Bethany, and she was an amazing gymnast. But just before her thirteenth birthday, Elizabeth and Myrlie’s husband died in a tragic car accident. Suddenly Bethany understands why her parents have always been so overprotective, not letting her go to sleepovers or stay home alone. They’ve already lost one daughter, and they refuse to lose another.
Sisters or Twins?
As Bethany watches old home videos of her deceased sister, more questions tug at her. Why do she and Elizabeth look so alike? Why do they both love Fruit Loops and peaches-and-cream oatmeal? Why do they both have a fascination for big words, like “vainglorious” or “raconteur”? They were like twins, born more than thirteen years apart. But that’s not possible…is it?
The Bottom Line
Double Identity is a thrilling, climactic drama. The story explores fears, trust and life-changing family secrets. If you’re looking for a young adult book filled with deep, emotional issues, then Double Identity is the perfect story for you.
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