The Bookish Ashley

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)

Summer is meant for adventure, self-discovery, and maybe a little bit of mischief. In Since You’ve Been Gone by Morgan Matson, Emily finds herself on an unexpected journey that embodies all of these elements—and then some.

Before Sloane, Emily was the quintessential wallflower, content with her quiet life and keeping to the shadows. But Sloane, the whirlwind of social energy, changes all that. Sloane is the friend everyone wishes they had—bold, fearless, and always pushing Emily to experience life outside her comfort zone. However, just when Emily is ready for another memorable summer with her best friend, Sloane vanishes without a trace, leaving behind nothing but a cryptic to-do list of thirteen daring tasks.

This list is the heart of the novel, a cleverly woven thread that pulls Emily through an unforgettable summer. Each task on Sloane’s list challenges Emily to step outside her shell—sometimes hilariously so (apple picking at night, anyone?), and other times more seriously (like, oh, kissing a stranger?). The list serves as a metaphor for growth and exploration, pushing Emily toward a more confident, self-assured version of herself.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this book is watching Emily’s transformation. Matson does a fantastic job of capturing the awkwardness, excitement, and terror of trying new things. Emily’s journey feels real and relatable—who hasn’t had a moment where they were forced to do something way outside their comfort zone? The author also brings in a great supporting cast, most notably Frank Porter, who surprises Emily (and the reader) with his depth and charm as they tackle the list together.

But this isn’t just a simple summer adventure. Beneath the lighthearted tasks and the fun, there’s a deeper exploration of friendship, identity, and the fears that come with both. Sloane’s absence looms large over the story, and Emily’s journey to understand why her best friend disappeared is just as compelling as the list itself. Matson perfectly balances the emotional weight with the more carefree moments, making for a read that’s both heartfelt and entertaining.

The pacing, however, occasionally drags, especially in the middle, where some of the tasks feel less engaging than others. But just when the story threatens to lull, Matson throws in a twist or an emotional reveal that pulls you right back in.

In conclusion, Since You’ve Been Gone is a charming, introspective novel that captures the essence of summer and the bittersweet nature of growing up. With its relatable characters, a touch of romance, and an unforgettable to-do list, this book is a perfect companion for anyone looking to reflect on their own journey—or simply escape into someone else’s.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely. If you’re looking for a summer read that blends fun with a bit of emotional depth, Since You’ve Been Gone is a solid choice.