The Leaving Room

by: Amber McBride
published: October, 14, 2025
genre: Children’s Fantasy, Young Adult
224 Pages, E-Book ARC Courtesy of NetGalley
Goodreads | Amazon

Goodread Synopsis

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.

Gospel assumes that there are countless other Leaving Rooms because many children pass, but she suspects they are not like her Leaving Room which is small (like a walk in closet)with shelves full of tiny jars that hold the memories of those who have gone.

When a random door opens and a Keeper named Melody arrives, their souls become entangled. Gospel seriousness melts and Melody’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. They must claw their way back to their bodies because there is so much more life to explore—together.

My Final Thoughts

The Leaving Room is a beautifully written, poignant story that explores love and letting go through the eyes of Gospel, a “Keeper” who oversees a quiet in-between space for children who have passed on. Gospel cannot leave the Leaving Room herself—she is bound to this place and her purpose: to comfort and guide young souls, or “Leavers,” on their way to what lies beyond.

Admittedly, this book wasn’t quite my style, and I recognize that I may not be the intended audience. I suspect this will resonate more with readers in the 11–16 age range. That said, I found the messaging and wordplay incredibly thoughtful and well-executed. It’s a quick read, but one that lingers emotionally.

Writing this review was honestly harder than reading the book—because I have no criticisms of the story or the writing. It’s simply a beautifully crafted tale that wasn’t personally for me, but I can absolutely see its brilliance and value for younger readers navigating big emotions and difficult topics.

Acknowledgement

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for the opportunity to read The Leaving Room by Amber McBride. I’m grateful to have had the chance to experience such a unique and heartfelt story.