Gabriel has dealt with mysterious medical issues his whole life. Just when he finally thought that they had all of the answers and he was on the road to good health, he is apprehended by DFS on the grounds of medical neglect.
At first, he thought that he would be back home in a few days, once the misunderstanding was cleared up. But when Renata tells Gabriel her crazy conspiracy theories, Gabriel feels the first pangs of doubt. Is there really a conspiracy?
Will he ever be able to get well and go back to his mother, or is he doomed to be another guinea pig for Doctor De Klerk?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️The plot was FANTASTIC. I’ve read a lot of stories about foster children, but never anything quite like what happens in Mito. I never even realized that medical kidnap could very well be a thing happening “behind the scenes” in foster care, but after reading this book my mind is blown. I just. Wow. I don’t want to go into a whole lot of detail so I think I might stop this review here, but, gah. I can’t even form words I’m so freaking mind blown.
This book was amazing!!
Looking for something new in young adult literature? A fast-paced adventure with diverse characters that will keep you turning the pages.
Follow Gabriel and Renata as they fight against an unfair and corrupt system, trying to save themselves and others from doctors, social workers, and judges who are more interested in profit than justice and the safety of their charges.
Genre: YOUNG ADULT FICTION / Health & Daily Living / Diseases, Illnesses & Injuries4 stars
“I’m not crazy. And my mom didn’t do anything wrong. I want to go home. You can’t make me go to the mito clinic.”
“Like I told your mother,” Dr. Seymour said slowly and deliberately, “I can and I will. Parents cannot stop doctors from determining the proper course of treatment for their children. If they’re going to be an obstacle to proper treatment, they’re going to be removed.”
He had a sudden vision of his mother’s stricken expression when Dr. Seymour told her that. “You can’t do that!”
“I can. I already have.”
“I want my mom!” Gabriel’s voice rose in his frustration and anger.
“If I have my way, you will never see your mom again.”
Gabriel’s jaw hung open. He stared at her in disbelief. Her words were spoken quietly and calmly, but he could hear the animosity behind them. She wasn’t just mouthing words. She wasn’t like Mrs. Scott, reassuring Gabriel that they would find the truth, and it would all work out in the end. She had already made a decision and acted on it. In her mind, Keisha was the worst kind of abusive parent, and she intended to keep Keisha away from her son permanently.
Neither of them moved or said a word for a long time. Eventually, Dr. Seymour’s eyes dropped to the clipboard again. “You’re making good progress, Gabriel. I hope to have you out of here and to a qualified foster family shortly. You remember what I said about eating and doing your therapy. The more diligent you are, the faster you will be able to recover your mobility and improve your quality of life.” She touched his shoulder, her fingers light. “You take care of yourself, now. I want you to be well.”
Gabriel nodded. He didn’t know what else to do or say.