The Face on the Milk Carton may not have initially appeared on “best books” lists upon its release, yet it has steadily captured the imaginations of young adult readers. Garnering awards such as the Pacific States and Iowa Teen accolades, the novel also earned the distinction of being listed as an International Reading Association-Children’s Book Council (IRA-CBC) Children’s Choice Book. Its sequel, Whatever Happened to Janie (1993), further cemented its standing by being named an American Library Association Best Book for Young Adults.

In The Face on the Milk Carton, author Caroline B. Cooney crafts a narrative focusing on Janie and the Johnson family. This singular perspective is enriched by the sequel, which shifts the spotlight to the Springs family. The sequel explores the impact of Janie's disappearance on the Springs and the complex dynamics that unfold when Janie, known to them as Jennie, returns.

The theme of kidnapping is not unique to Cooney’s work and has been a recurring subject in young adult literature, albeit tackled in diverse ways. For example, Norma Fox Mazer’s Taking Terri Mueller (1981) tells the story of a young girl abducted by her noncustodial parent, highlighting familial conflicts. Meanwhile, Lois Duncan’s The Twisted Window (1987) involves a more sinister plot, where Brad kidnaps a girl in a misguided attempt to replace a sister he accidentally killed. Then there is Jean Thesman’s Rachel Chance (1990), where the titular character embarks on a quest to rescue her brother from a religious cult.

In contrast, Cooney’s narrative delves into the emotional upheaval of a kidnapped child who has grown up believing she is part of a loving family, unaware of the hidden truths about her past. This unique angle sets Cooney’s work apart, offering a poignant exploration of identity and belonging amidst the backdrop of a seemingly ordinary yet profoundly impactful event.