Introduction to ‘The Lost Girls of Willowbrook’
‘The Lost Girls of Willowbrook’ by Ellen Marie Wiseman transports readers to 1970s Staten Island, weaving a tale as gripping as ‘Girl, Interrupted’ while blending haunting elements reminiscent of ‘American Horror Story’. The novel encapsulates the tragic story of Sage Winters, a young woman who embarks on a perilous journey to uncover the fate of her identical twin sister, Rosemary, at the notorious Willowbrook State School.
The Dark History of Willowbrook State School
Willowbrook State School is infamous for its harrowing past, marked by allegations of mistreatment and abuse within its walls. The real-life institution gained widespread attention after Geraldo Rivera’s expose, revealing the horrific conditions endured by the residents. Wiseman’s fictional account allows readers to navigate the tangled web of urban legends surrounding this dark chapter in history while exploring the mysteries that surround both the school and the siblings’ past.
The Intriguing Plot Unfolds
Sage, now sixteen, grapples with profound loss—the death of her sister and her mother, compounding her feelings of isolation in her chaotic home life. When she discovers that her sister did not die as she had been led to believe, but was instead committed to Willowbrook, Sage’s determination to find her leads her into the heart of darkness. The narrative unfolds with suspense, inviting readers to consider how identity, secrecy, and the desire for connection shape our understanding of family.
Ultimately, ‘The Lost Girls of Willowbrook’ is not just a journey through a disturbing institution, but a poignant exploration of love and resilience. Ellen Marie Wiseman’s gripping storytelling touts a powerful message about confronting the past and seeking the truth against all odds.
