Bone Gap (novel)

Bone Gap is a 2015 young adult fantasy novel written by Laura Ruby. It is a coming-of-age story set in the rural town of Bone Gap, Illinois, a place seemingly defined by its gaps in the landscape, both physical and metaphorical.

The novel follows the story of Finn O'Sullivan, a young man known for his inability to see people's faces correctly. This unique perception, coupled with his brother Sean's protectiveness, shapes his experiences and isolates him within the small community. One day, Roza, a beautiful and mysterious young woman who came to Bone Gap, disappears. Finn is the only witness, but his unreliable vision makes it difficult for him to provide accurate information, leading the town to doubt his account and question his sanity.

The story explores themes of perception, identity, trauma, family, and the power of stories. It blends elements of magical realism, folklore, and contemporary fiction, creating a distinctive and atmospheric narrative. The "gaps" in Bone Gap represent not only the geographical features but also the spaces between people, the silences, the unspoken truths, and the gaps in understanding that often plague human relationships. Finn's journey involves confronting his own personal "gaps" in perception and memory as he attempts to unravel the mystery of Roza's disappearance and prove his own innocence.

Bone Gap received critical acclaim for its lyrical prose, compelling characters, and imaginative storytelling. It won the Printz Award in 2016.