Book Review- Since You've Been Gone

Since You’ve Been Gone by Morgan Matson

♦publisher:  Simon and  Schuster 
♦release date: May 6,  2014
♦hardcover, 449 pages
♦intended audience: Young adult
♦rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

A sweet and charming read, reminiscent of the true essence of friendship.

Review:   Sloane and Emily are best friends, wherever one is, the other is sure to be. Sloane- wild, eccentric and the life of the party; and Emily- sweet, shy and willing to follow Sloane’s lead. However, Emily’s world shatters when Sloane goes missing, without a trace, right before their perfectly planned summer.

Sloane and her family just disappear, with no message, no phone call, and no texts. Two weeks later, a list arrives in the mail with 13 Sloane- inspired tasks. All the items induce sweaty palms, meant to break Emily out of her shell, but if they can lead her to Sloane, she is willing to try.

Tipping her world upside down, Emily tackles the list, including: Apple picking at night, sleep under the stars, hug a Jamie and even kiss a stranger- oh no!

Little did Emily know what would ensue from these adventures, as well as the friendships the list would help her find. Opening Emily’s world to discover who she truly is, by no longer following in Sloane’s shadow.  

Morgan Matson writes with a truly unique beauty, which leads to realistic and heartwarming characters. Since You’ve Been Gone, resonates the core of true friendship. Whether it be the friends you have always had, or friends from summers past, this book will make you fondly reflect upon them. Closing the book, was like parting from your best friend. With tears in my eyes, I smiled knowing they were going to be ok, which in turn inspired me to start my own list.