The title is The Year Without Michael.
The themes in the novel are facing challenges with courage, struggling with what's right and wrong, self-discovery, and breaking apart and becoming whole again. .
4.Jody Chapman- The oldest child in the Chapman family, she to become a cheerleader her junior year. Turning 16, she struggles with her family problems by being, considerate,, faithful, helpful, and hopeful for them. She's also clever, emotional, and_ friendly. "The last thing I wanted was for you to worry. .
Kay Chapman- The 12 year old spoiled brat who's conceited, selfish, and a cry baby. Sometimes, she helps with good intentions, but, most of the times, she aggravates around her harsh words and thoughts. "I don't care if she never comes back. Dad can disappear too for all I care. I hate all. of you. You're all crazy and I hate you all leave me alone and die. .
Linda Chapman- The mother of Jody, Kay, and Michael, she can be abusive, hard, and harsh when she's upset. It's very difficult for her to care about her family since her only son disappeared, however, she wishes and wants to continue her life, even without Michael. " I've prayed too, and everybody / know had prayed, and God hasn't heard any of our prayers and I give UP- It .
Tom ChapMn- The father of the Chapman kids, Jody knew her father was still sane because he still cares about the family. However, Tom and Linda had arguements that made the kids thought they were going to get a divorce. He also accepts the truth and reality of situations. .
we're going to go into family therapy and see if we can find the love I know we all used to have for each other. Maybe it'll just prove to be another disaster, but we have to try. " .
Maris- Jody's bestfriend. She has a mother she can't look up to,so she often goes to Jody's and feels she has a family there. She does her best to help and support Jody, mentally and emotionally. However, she sees a lot of guys who are wild and older than her.