The cases received increasing news coverage in a fast-changing landscape that saw a proliferation of media outlets with growing interest in compelling visual images -- such as a heart-rending photo of a smiling child or video of parents pleading for their child's safe return.

CNN: Missing child case 'awakened America'

Ms. FRANKLIN: (Singing) You can lie to a child with a smiling face.

NPR: Aretha Franklin's Globe-Nominated Performance

I'm not looking on the camp website for my child's smiling face.

CNN: Independence day: For our children it can be summer camp

Marieme spends much of her time sitting on the floor with the child, cooing, smiling and shaking toys.

CNN: When freedom is 4,000 miles away