Mazer became interested in writing a novel about children who have been kidnapped after divorce when she learned that about 25,000 children each year are stolen from one parent by the other parent. [In Taking Terri Mueller] Terri Mueller is just such a child. For eight years she has believed that her mother died in a car crash. Now that she is thirteen, she begins to notice certain discrepancies in her father's story, and she asks questions. At times, it appears that she has opened up a Pandora's box—her knowledge causes even more suffering and division. Mazer has looked at the issue from all angles and successfully conveys the overwhelming emotional impact inherent in the situation. Readers will readily sympathize with Terri, a level-headed, sensitive girl, whose joy at finding her mother who has loved her and longed for her each day of the eight-year separation, is immeasurable.