The Leaving

By: Tara Altebrando

Narrated by: Karissa Vacker

Eleven years ago, six kindergartners went missing without a trace. After all that time, the people left behind moved on, or tried to, until today.

Today, five of those kids returned. They're 16, and they are...fine. Scarlett comes home and finds a mom she barely recognizes and doesn't really recognize the person she's supposed to be, either. But she thinks she remembers Lucas.

Lucas remembers Scarlett, too, except they're entirely unable to recall where they've been or what happened to them. Neither of them remember the sixth victim, Max - the only one who hasn't come back. Which leaves Max's sister, Avery, wanting answers.

She wants to find her brother - dead or alive - and isn't buying this whole memory-loss story. But as details of the disappearance begin to unfold, no one is prepared for the truth. This unforgettable novel with its rich characters, high stakes, and plot twists will leave listeners breathless.

©2016 Tara Altebrando (P)2018 Tantor

Critic reviews

"This is no mere thriller; folded into this compulsively readable work are thought-provoking themes....Teens who enjoy engrossing, contemplative titles such as Adam Silvera's More Happy Than Not will devour this insightful musing on memory and identity." (School Library Journal)

Great read

I really enjoyed it. It was so interesting from the start. And it stayed that way throughout.

Premise seemed to great but then fell flat

The explanation and the conclusion was rushed and I wish more time was dedicated to a deeper understanding.

heading optional not really

long story with somewhat predictable ending. and you need 15 words for this review. which I like stories that get to the point

Enjoyed

Good story. Different from usual. Likable characters. Did not predict the ending. Genuinely nice easy read.

This book was just...ok

I feel like this book had a big build up to a pretty insignificant ending. I also felt like they referred back to the "memories" so much that it kind of got overplayed and I was just ready for something exciting to happen, but it never really came. You find out what happened in the end, but it never really answers any questions that developed throughout the story, at least not in any detail. I also thought it was odd that five kids returned, but it's written from the perspective of only two kids and a sister. Overall, this wasn't a favorite of mine. I finished it because I had already spent so much time listening to it, but I wouldn't recommend it.