Apart from not knowing who they are and how to move forward, the world wants answers they simply don't have. For a start, where is Max? He disappeared at the same time but he hasn't returned.
The Leaving is one of those stories that gets under your skin. An MRI scan highlights a piece of metal in Scarlett's intestinal tract. Was she forced to swallow it or did she do it to help her remember? And what about Lucas? He finds he can load and handle a gun with ease. Is that significant? Then there are the feelings Scarlett and Lucas think they may have had for each other.
The Leaving starts slowly and builds momentum as seemingly unrelated clues lead towards tenuous connections. How could six five-year-old children simply disappear for the whole of their childhood? Why would anyone do such a cruel thing as to kidnap six young innocents? Does a decades-old novel of exactly this scenario have anything to do with it?
If I tell you any more, I might give too much away.
The Leaving is a perfect read for a long journey or a holiday reality escape. One thing is for sure: you won't want to put it down.
Title: The Leaving
Author: Tara Altebrando
Publisher: Bloomsbury, $16.99
Publication Date: 25 May 2016
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781408877807
For ages: 13 years+
Type: Young Adult
