Maya's journal

Maya’s journal symbolizes the truth and love of a bereft mother. Journal entries form several chapters in the novel and comprise the lengthy final chapter of the novel. In the journal, Maya recounts the truth about meeting and marrying Jason Baxter. She tells about her plans to leave Jason, as well as her love for Tati.

After Jason kidnapped Casey (Ariel), Maya made entries in the journal about trying to find her daughter. The journal demonstrates just how much Maya loved Casey and proves how hard Maya searched for her.

Atlas

Ironically, an atlas symbolizes directions to everywhere except home. Dad uses an atlas to find the next place for him and Ariel to stay as they travel the country on the run.

Atlases find places, but they do not find the permanent home that Ariel wants. Ariel knows that a permanent home will...