The Art of Escaping is a somewhat unexpected delight, with the usual themes of adolescent identity and tentative romance centered around an unusual topic. Mattie, the protagonist, pursues her dream and self-empowerment, under the gruff tutelage of Miyu, who is hiding her past under her expertise, and with the help of Will, who has a secret of his own. The characters are complex and winning, the details convincing and intriguing, and the whole witty and engaging. All in all, this is a delightful, escapist read.