We sympathize that having a book recalled while you're not in Hyde Park (due to break, study abroad, etc.) can be very frustrating. However, it's equally frustrating to the other patron who placed the recall.
Many faculty and students stay in Hyde Park for part or all of winter break to use the Library. For those in our community with teaching responsibilities, interims are often the ONLY time they can do concentrated research. We would not be surprised to learn that some researchers recall books before break so they will be available for their use specifically during interim.
Admittedly, some recalls are caused by Reserve, as we are busy acquiring books for winter quarter courses. In those cases, the Suggestions Office staff has heard rumors of circ supervisors showing some leniency...but they aren't required to do this, and some classes need their books starting the first day of the quarter.
In any case, we point you to the words at the top of every checkout slip: REGULAR LOANS MAY BE RECALLED AT ANY TIME. If you leave Hyde Park with a Library book on your shelf (or in your suitcase), you gamble with everyone else at the University, that they won't need your book while you are away. Thus the Library strongly encourages you to return your books before leaving.