The Leaving Room

The Leaving Room by Amber McBride, published by Feiwel & Friends on October 14, 2025, is a novel-in-verse that delves into themes of connection and memory. The story follows Gospel, the Keeper of the Leaving Room, a transitional space for young souls facing death. When Melodee, a Keeper, enters this realm, their intertwined fates challenge the boundaries of their roles and emotions as they navigate the complexities of love and loss.
Readers will encounter a hauntingly beautiful narrative that unfolds in a brief yet impactful timeframe, exploring the delicate balance between life and death. The book addresses profound topics such as grief, relationships, and the essence of hope, making it a poignant exploration of the human experience. With 224 pages, this edition presents McBride’s unique voice and perspective, inviting readers to reflect on the nature of love and the connections that endure beyond life.
Official synopsis Publisher
NATIONAL BOOK AWARD LONGLIST!
“A must-read.”
“Achingly tender.”
“Intimate and astonishing.”
For fans of You’ve Reached Sam and If I Stay, a hauntingly beautiful, ultimately hopeful novel-in-verse about a girl in between life and death, by National Book Award Finalist Amber McBride.
Gospel is the Keeper of the Leaving Room—a place all young people must phase through when they die. The young are never ready to leave; they need a moment to remember and a Keeper to help their wispy souls along.
When a random door opens and a Keeper named Melodee arrives, their souls become entangled. Gospel’s seriousness melts and Melodee’s fear of connection fades, but still—are Keepers allowed to fall in love? Now they must find a way out of the Leaving Room and be unafraid of their love. In a novel that takes place over four minutes, National Book Award finalist Amber McBride explores connection, memory, and hope in ways that are unforgettable and poignant.
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