"Leave Myself Behind" by Bart Yates is an incredible novel that immerses readers in a captivating and emotional story of self-discovery, family dynamics, and the quest to find one's place in the world. Through the eyes of seventeen-year-old Noah York, we are taken on a journey filled with dark secrets and unexpected twists.
Noah's character is a complex and relatable protagonist, as he grapples with his own identity and explores his sexuality. Yates handles Noah's journey with sensitivity and authenticity, allowing readers to connect deeply with his struggles and triumphs.
The relationship between Noah and his troubled older brother, Jeremy, adds another layer of depth to the story. Jeremy's mental illness creates tension and confusion for Noah, and their dynamic is portrayed with nuance and realism. This exploration of family dynamics and the challenges of dealing with mental health issues is both poignant and thought-provoking.
Available on Audible
Yates skillfully weaves together multiple plot threads, ensuring that readers are engrossed and constantly intrigued by the secrets surrounding Noah's family. The pacing is expertly executed, with tension building steadily until the final revelations. The author tackles difficult subjects such as family secrets, mental illness, and the quest for acceptance with compassion and depth.
"Leave Myself Behind" is a powerful and evocative novel that will leave a lasting impact on its readers. It delves into themes of identity, family, and the complexities of human relationships with great sensitivity and depth. Bart Yates has crafted a compelling narrative that skillfully balances heartbreak and hope, creating an unforgettable reading experience.
What are readers saying?
Leave Myself Behind by Bart Yates has received a range of reactions from readers. Some reviewers praised the book for its captivating and unique storyline. They found the characters to be well-rounded and relatable, particularly the protagonist, Noah. The exploration of themes such as identity, family dynamics, and self-discovery was applauded, as it added depth and complexity to the narrative. Many readers also commended Yates' writing style, noting his ability to create realistic and emotionally charged scenes. Overall, these readers found the book to be thought-provoking and engaging.
However, not all readers were satisfied with the book. Some felt that the pacing was slow, causing the story to drag at certain points. They also found the plot to lack coherence and direction, making it difficult to fully immerse themselves. A few readers also expressed disappointment with the ending, finding it rushed and unresolved, leaving them with unanswered questions and a sense of dissatisfaction.
There were also mixed opinions on the book's handling of sensitive topics, such as abuse and mental illness. While some believed that the author approached these subjects with sensitivity and authenticity, others felt that they were not explored with enough depth or nuance. In particular, the portrayal of mental health issues was seen by some as superficial, leaving room for more exploration.
In terms of the writing style, some reviewers found Yates' prose to generally be strong, but noted instances of repetitive language and excessive description. These elements occasionally distracted from the overall reading experience and made the book feel overwritten.
Ultimately, opinions on Leave Myself Behind were divided. While some readers appreciated the engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, others had issues with the pacing, plot coherence, and handling of sensitive topics.
LeaveMyselfBehind ComingOfAge SelfDiscovery