This book is perfectly appropriate for teen readers and is relatable in many aspects through the struggles Emily faces to discover her individual identity.

Fans of Morgan Matson’s other books will be thrilled by this adorable adventure that is in her same spellbinding style. Since You’ve Been Gone is a delightful novel that makes the reader long for those days of summer that seemed endlessly filled with possibilities. The list contains thirteen tasks designed to push Emily’s comfort zone like “riding a horse” or, even scarier, “kissing a stranger.”Įmily embarks on a completely unexpected summer filled with risky exploits, play-writing parents, and new friends that allow her to discover who she is as an individual, not just half of a whole. Seeing this as the only way to get her best friend back, Emily is determined to finish the list. However, everything changes when Sloane mysteriously disappears, leaving behind a list for Emily to accomplish. She had it all planned out: she and her best friend Sloane would find fun part-time jobs, go on weekend trips, and take everyday adventures together. Since You’ve Been Gone by Morgan Matson is a heartwarming story about friendship and newly discovered confidence.Emily was ready for summer. Plus, Matson’s writing is wonderful as she is able to make you smile, laugh, and cry all at the same time (in the best way possible). Moreover, all of the relationships featured in this story feel genuine and real-I would love to be apart of this friend group-and I appreciate Matson’s focus on friendship. Frank is such a charismatic and kind character who never failed to warm my heart.

I also loved the friendship that Frank and Emily have. Furthermore, I enjoyed seeing Emily become more confident with herself as she checked off items. Though each item was a challenge, I admire the consideration that Sloane put into the list. I loved the whole premise of Sloane’s list for Emily. With her new friends, Emily is able to discover new sides of herself in an unforgettable summer.Ī story of friendship, Since You’ve Been Gone by Morgan Matson is an enjoyable read that I was unable to put down. In the process, she meets Frank, Dawn, and Collins, who help her to find her courage and support her endeavors. Usually not one to complete these lists, Emily convinces herself that the only she will see Sloane again is if she can complete each item. Though it is not the first list she has received, this one is different because it contains all the things that Emily had been afraid to do before. Here's Claire L from our Teen Advisory Corps with some backlist love for Since You've Been Gone by Morgan Matson.Įmily was looking forward to spending the summer with her best friend, Sloane, until she realizes that Sloane has completely disappeared and only left behind a list for Emily.