Samantha Sanderson Without a Trace (19 page)

3. Deputies Malone and Jameson had differing attitudes about the value of Sam's theories and thoughts about Tam's disappearance. Why was that?

4. Sam's father has an incredible sense of right and wrong and fairness in how he deals with everyone, from Sam to the Lees to the deputies in charge of the case. How do people develop a strong fortitude? Where does that come from?

5. Computers and other electronic devices are amazing machines that serve us well in many cases. But there are times that they can introduce dangers into our
lives. How were electronics a good and a bad thing in
Without a Trace
?

6. Tam took a risk to prove a point. Have you ever done something you probably shouldn't have, just to make a point? What happened? Discuss ways you can get your point across in a safe manner.

7. Sam's friend Makayla hesitates to break the rules, even as Sam tries to convince her that it is in Tam's best interest? Have you ever had your beliefs, your convictions, questioned? Did you stick up for yourself and stay true to what you believe? Or did you allow yourself to be persuaded to do something other than your original plan?

8. Sam just knew that Tam wouldn't have run off without good reason because of his reputation … his past behavior backed up her strong conviction. What do you think people see as your reputation? What would you like to be your reputation? Discuss ways you can act to support that reputation.

9. Have you ever felt so sure about something that you were willing to risk trouble with parents, teachers, and other adults to prove your point or theory? What happened? How can young people ensure that their ideas and thoughts are taken seriously by others?

10. Mr. and Mrs. Lee were very worried about their son. What does the Bible tell us about worrying? Discuss Matthew 6:27.

11. Sam knows that prayer is a powerful tool at all times. When does she use prayer in this situation? How does it bring comfort and peace to a difficult time?

12. Tam wanted to stress how important it was to realize God was always in control, but also wanted kids to learn how to be safe. What are things you can do to keep yourself safe at school? On the internet?

13. Do a little research. What exactly is an Amber Alert? How are they effective?

14. The panic room was pretty cool. Discuss some reasons to go into a panic room. Would you be scared if you'd gotten locked inside like Tam? Discuss what you would have done.

15. There are unfortunately many cases of children having trouble in our world today—from disappearances to getting hurt or injured or suffering in natural disasters. What are some Bible verses that could be used to help bring comfort to families experiencing troubles with their children?

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I
owe a huge amount of gratitude to the whole team at Zonderkidz for helping the Samantha Sanderson series see the light of day. I truly appreciate each of you for extending your talent and skill on my behalf, especially Mary Hassinger. You've been such an awesome editor to work with.

My most humble gratitude to amazing author, Ronie Kendig, who helped me work out this plot when my back was against the wall. You rock!

Special thanks to Robinson Middle School who let me share how special they are with the rest of the world. I played around with possibilities and lay of the land as I saw fit. Any mistakes in the representation of details are mine, which I twisted in the best interest of my story.

My most sincere thanks to my awesome agent, Steve Laube (HP), who not only is an amazing agent, but makes me laugh when I get too serious. THANK YOU.

Thank you for ALWAYS being in my corner: Mom, Bubba and Lisa, Brandon, Rachel, and especially my Papa, who I love and miss every day.

I couldn't do what I do without my girls—Emily Carol, Remington Case, and Isabella Co-Ceaux. I love each of you so much! Thank y'all so much for your
support and encouragement when I needed to write. And my precious grandsons, Benton and Zayden. You are joys in my life.

I'm blessed to have such an amazing husband who puts up with my craziness, but also is a great brainstorm partner and research assistant. You amaze me with your insight and your love and support. I love you with everything I have.

Finally, all glory to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.