What do you think?
Rate this book
What She Missed
Sixteen-year-old Ebony Jones is devastated when her family moves from Houston to her grandmother’s house in the country. There’s absolutely nothing for Ebony in Alula Lake, Texas. So she thinks.
Award-winning author Liara Tamani’s What She Missed is a rich and emotional novel that celebrates change, nature, friendship, growing up, and love, for readers of Sarah Dessen’s The Rest of the Story and Elizabeth Acevedo’s Clap When You Land.
When Ebony and her parents move from Houston, Texas, to her grandmother’s house in a small lake town, Ebony is sure her life is doomed. And to make matters worse, the ghost of Ebony’s beloved grandmother—a strong swimmer who tragically drowned in the lake—is everywhere. Alula Lake does offer one perk: reconnecting Ebony with her childhood friend, Jalen.
But as Ebony settles into life, she finds herself drifting away from Jalen and gravitating to his older sister, Lena. Lena is chaotic, disorderly, and rebellious, yet she offers a reprieve for the anger and sadness Ebony feels about losing so much.
An ode to nature, art, friendship, history, family, and love, this lyrical coming-of-age story explores one girl’s summer of self-discovery as she reimagines the world and her place in it. What She Missed is for fans of Sarah Dessen, Nina LaCour, and Nicola Yoon.
Award-winning author Liara Tamani’s What She Missed is a rich and emotional novel that celebrates change, nature, friendship, growing up, and love, for readers of Sarah Dessen’s The Rest of the Story and Elizabeth Acevedo’s Clap When You Land.
When Ebony and her parents move from Houston, Texas, to her grandmother’s house in a small lake town, Ebony is sure her life is doomed. And to make matters worse, the ghost of Ebony’s beloved grandmother—a strong swimmer who tragically drowned in the lake—is everywhere. Alula Lake does offer one perk: reconnecting Ebony with her childhood friend, Jalen.
But as Ebony settles into life, she finds herself drifting away from Jalen and gravitating to his older sister, Lena. Lena is chaotic, disorderly, and rebellious, yet she offers a reprieve for the anger and sadness Ebony feels about losing so much.
An ode to nature, art, friendship, history, family, and love, this lyrical coming-of-age story explores one girl’s summer of self-discovery as she reimagines the world and her place in it. What She Missed is for fans of Sarah Dessen, Nina LaCour, and Nicola Yoon.
Audible Audio
First published June 13, 2023
4 people are currently reading
4499 people want to read
About the author
Liara Tamani
5 books295 followersLiara Tamani grew up in Houston,
Texas, where every spring meant one thing:
rodeo season. She loved getting decked out
in her best cowgirl gear and soaking up the
music, food, and electric energy of the rodeo,
a joy she now shares with her daughter
and husband. Her deep Texas roots shine
through her storytelling, capturing the
spirit and rhythms of the state in all her
acclaimed novels: Calling My Name, All
the Things We Never Knew, and What
She Missed. Before becoming a writer, she
attended Harvard Law School and worked
as a marketing coordinator for the Houston
Rockets and Comets, television production
assistant, home accessories designer, floral
designer, and yoga and dance teacher. She
holds an MFA in writing from Vermont
College of Fine Arts and a BA from Duke
University.
www.liaratamani.com
Texas, where every spring meant one thing:
rodeo season. She loved getting decked out
in her best cowgirl gear and soaking up the
music, food, and electric energy of the rodeo,
a joy she now shares with her daughter
and husband. Her deep Texas roots shine
through her storytelling, capturing the
spirit and rhythms of the state in all her
acclaimed novels: Calling My Name, All
the Things We Never Knew, and What
She Missed. Before becoming a writer, she
attended Harvard Law School and worked
as a marketing coordinator for the Houston
Rockets and Comets, television production
assistant, home accessories designer, floral
designer, and yoga and dance teacher. She
holds an MFA in writing from Vermont
College of Fine Arts and a BA from Duke
University.
www.liaratamani.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
March 31, 2023
Raw
This book was darker than I expected. It touched on some heavy subjects, but offered little resolution. I feel like there was a missed opportunity to address mental health concerns for a teenager facing womanhood. Ebony had a lot of issues and deserved to have a more supportive storyline. I spent much of the book disliking her. It reminded me of how I received the main character in Tamani’s book “Calling My Name”. That was off putting for me. I eventually found compassion for Ebony towards the end of the book. I appreciated her self-discovery journey. Jalen was such a sweet boy. I wanted more character development for him (and several other characters). I wanted a cute love story for Jalen and Ebony. Though I was critical of many aspects of the book, I still found it to be an interesting read. It was intense and unflinching. I appreciated the realness.
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins Publishing, and Liara Tamani for this advanced copy to review. #WhatSheMissed #NetGalley
This book was darker than I expected. It touched on some heavy subjects, but offered little resolution. I feel like there was a missed opportunity to address mental health concerns for a teenager facing womanhood. Ebony had a lot of issues and deserved to have a more supportive storyline. I spent much of the book disliking her. It reminded me of how I received the main character in Tamani’s book “Calling My Name”. That was off putting for me. I eventually found compassion for Ebony towards the end of the book. I appreciated her self-discovery journey. Jalen was such a sweet boy. I wanted more character development for him (and several other characters). I wanted a cute love story for Jalen and Ebony. Though I was critical of many aspects of the book, I still found it to be an interesting read. It was intense and unflinching. I appreciated the realness.
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins Publishing, and Liara Tamani for this advanced copy to review. #WhatSheMissed #NetGalley
August 16, 2023
An interesting take on mental health, and how a teen girl deals with that. With her life uprooted back to where her grandmother lived and died, Ebony needs to find her way without self-destructing, which she tries to do through her paintings. She falls down a deep hole, only to come out on the other side and sees the light with the help of her parents and her childhood best friend, who is actually the love of her life. This book gets pretty deep into Ebony‘s despair. I would’ve like to read more of how she overcame her issues.
August 20, 2023
Not my cup of tea whatsoever. There wasn’t really much of a plot, or a conflict that was in need of some kind of resolution. It was truly just about a girl who was angry at her parents (more so her mother) because they moved to a small town and poor girl couldn’t go to her fancy art school anymore. I just thought a lot of it was so overdramatic, like the idea that she NEEDED to go to this school in order to get somewhere in life was just so ridiculous. She was so spiteful and it was super frustrating. I felt the urge to literally yell at her through the book. I just feel like there was no real purpose or lesson to this story. Truly ask yourself what you saw in this book that was “wow”.
No hate, no shame at all. I just feel like there should’ve been some sort of epiphany and resolution rather than “omg what she doesn’t want to steal my life?!” and “everything is great because the guy i like has feelings for me too.” Like that’s not a real resolution. What about how you verbally attacked your mom on multiple occasions? did that just stop because this dude likes you back? Like nothing was truly ever solved. Just a very unfulfilling ending. Not worth it honestly.
No hate, no shame at all. I just feel like there should’ve been some sort of epiphany and resolution rather than “omg what she doesn’t want to steal my life?!” and “everything is great because the guy i like has feelings for me too.” Like that’s not a real resolution. What about how you verbally attacked your mom on multiple occasions? did that just stop because this dude likes you back? Like nothing was truly ever solved. Just a very unfulfilling ending. Not worth it honestly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2024
What a beautiful YA story! The cover drew me in immediately and I was pleasantly surprised by the story itself! Contemporary/ Realistic Fiction isn’t a genre I usually pick up, but I really enjoyed this one. This book has an interesting premise and the story packs a powerful punch. Fans of young adult contemporary fiction are not going to want to miss out on reading this one!
Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy for an honest review.
Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy for an honest review.
January 18, 2024
This stunning young adult novel is a beautiful story about finding yourself amidst the chaos of life, loss, changing friendships and new love. Ebony is navigating many changes in her life: her parents recently lost their jobs, they’ve moved from Houston to her late grandmother’s house at the lake and she misses her old friends and the life she thought she was going to have. She’s always relied on her art to give her purpose and get her through tough times, but even that isn’t helping her now. Instead, she faces the empty canvas with fear and dread and hopelessness. Together with her old friend Jalen, she tries to build a new life for herself, but is weighed down with guilt, sadness, anxiety and self-consciousness. These overwhelming feelings lead her to make choices that aren’t in her best interest and that she might not be able to recover from. The book is written in a unique structure, alternating between the present story from Ebony’s perspective and what she misses from her own experiences. Tamani’s compelling prose invites readers into Ebony’s state of mind so they can truly feel her emotions and experience her life. It’s raw, honest and heartfelt and will likely be a treasured roadmap for other readers seeking to find themselves again.
July 16, 2023
Emotional writing. To be expected from Liara!
I think Liara writes in a way that spotlights young characters getting to learn and love themselves and that is at the forefront, before romantic relationships and i appreciate that.
Our MC was going through so much and i felt for her. I wish the book was slightly longer just so i could see the MC living in that growth.
But i think this was a good book.
I think Liara writes in a way that spotlights young characters getting to learn and love themselves and that is at the forefront, before romantic relationships and i appreciate that.
Our MC was going through so much and i felt for her. I wish the book was slightly longer just so i could see the MC living in that growth.
But i think this was a good book.
July 17, 2024
Like any typical sixteen year old, Ebony is devastated when her parents announce that they’re moving from their home in Houston to her grandmother’s house in the country. For her, her life is ruined, her parents are the worst and she hates them for making a decision without regard for how it will affect her life.
Despite Alula lake being a place she’s spent plenty of summers and has a handful of childhood friends, Ebony struggles with adjusting to her new life and her selfishness eventually shows in how she treated those around her. She was a spoiled brat with an entitled demeanor and there was nothing about her character that I liked. Because there was no growth, she never changed and was the same annoying teen from the beginning of the book down to the last page.
I’ve read plenty of YA novels so the age and immaturity wasn’t a deal breaker for me. This story struggled with character development, plot development or a plot in general for that matter, there was no real conflict and I found myself asking the question “what’s the point of this story” on several occasions. It was a very surface level read with no depth. I’m not sure what the purpose was or what the author tried to convey on these pages.
I will say that the positives were the beautiful cover and the fact that one of my favorites narrated the book. In fact that’s what led me to give the author a try to begin with. Based off this book, this was a one and done for this NTMA.
Despite Alula lake being a place she’s spent plenty of summers and has a handful of childhood friends, Ebony struggles with adjusting to her new life and her selfishness eventually shows in how she treated those around her. She was a spoiled brat with an entitled demeanor and there was nothing about her character that I liked. Because there was no growth, she never changed and was the same annoying teen from the beginning of the book down to the last page.
I’ve read plenty of YA novels so the age and immaturity wasn’t a deal breaker for me. This story struggled with character development, plot development or a plot in general for that matter, there was no real conflict and I found myself asking the question “what’s the point of this story” on several occasions. It was a very surface level read with no depth. I’m not sure what the purpose was or what the author tried to convey on these pages.
I will say that the positives were the beautiful cover and the fact that one of my favorites narrated the book. In fact that’s what led me to give the author a try to begin with. Based off this book, this was a one and done for this NTMA.
January 31, 2023
NetGalley ARC Educator 550974
A poignant tale with themes of grief, self acceptance, friendship and family. Indigo Ebony is an artist whose facing a creative block. Her parents are going through their own financial and life changes. This is a one sitting read. It is a family read as it looks at the family as a whole and not as background characters. I look forward to more greatness from this writer.
A poignant tale with themes of grief, self acceptance, friendship and family. Indigo Ebony is an artist whose facing a creative block. Her parents are going through their own financial and life changes. This is a one sitting read. It is a family read as it looks at the family as a whole and not as background characters. I look forward to more greatness from this writer.
June 12, 2023
This was a raw look at a 16 year-olds summer of finding herself. Of finding who she is and who she should be. Ebony's grandmonther, who she had a very strong connection to, drown 6 years ago and now her family is moving away from the life that she loves to her grandma's old house. It is not only a walk down memory lane, but a journey of self discovery.
There were a lot of times that I did not like Ebony/Indigo, but I feel like that was intentional. It is hard to like someone when they don't even like themselves. The feelings that she felt were so raw and, I feel, so typical of kids her age. The train wreck that was her life was so painful to watch.
I found the beginning mildly confusing. I wish instead of that first part being titled 'What She Missed' that there was some indication that this was an incident to take place later in the book. While Ebony felt like a well thought out person, I felt like some of the other characters were not well developed. I did like the 'What She Missed' sections beyond the first one. I thought they were really interesting.
3 stars for imagery and emotion.
There were a lot of times that I did not like Ebony/Indigo, but I feel like that was intentional. It is hard to like someone when they don't even like themselves. The feelings that she felt were so raw and, I feel, so typical of kids her age. The train wreck that was her life was so painful to watch.
I found the beginning mildly confusing. I wish instead of that first part being titled 'What She Missed' that there was some indication that this was an incident to take place later in the book. While Ebony felt like a well thought out person, I felt like some of the other characters were not well developed. I did like the 'What She Missed' sections beyond the first one. I thought they were really interesting.
3 stars for imagery and emotion.
November 5, 2023
As someone who moved around a lot and immigrated to a new country around the main character's are, I was really excited to read this book.
So far I like everyone BUT the main character. She's such a try-hard, and I really hope to see her undergo a major character development, because right now she makes me want to go "ugh" everytime she does/says anything.
So far I like everyone BUT the main character. She's such a try-hard, and I really hope to see her undergo a major character development, because right now she makes me want to go "ugh" everytime she does/says anything.
September 19, 2023
This was a perfect blend of a feel-good summer story with just the right amount of darkness. The characters were realistic, made real mistakes, and had real reactions. I loved Jalen. He was definitely my favorite part of the book. Ending was perfect.
February 16, 2024
Liara Tamani is a good writer but just not for me, as I have felt this way about her other two books and now this one. I get that Ebony was going through a lot but she was an unlikeable character
June 26, 2023
What She Missed
Liara Tamani
Storygram Book Tour
Out June 13, 2023
“It’s crazy how she could learn something about herself and then forget. Learn it again and think she’d learned something new.”
This his such a thoughtful and timely YA story about what we miss when our hearts are broken and we stop paying attention to all the good around us. It’s a coming of age story about a young girl who moves to a new town and struggles with the changes, the missed friends, all while still wrestling with the death of her grandmother.
“It’s funny how the worst things in life can hold the biggest opportunities. They’re hard to see at first, when things are dark and you think all is lost, but they’re there the whole time.”
I'm always a total sucker for a coming of age YA story, but I could totally relate to Ebony/Indigo!! I moved my senior year of high school and let me tell ya, it's very hard to find your footing and remember/know who you are when that happens. Especially at that age. I think the author did a wonderful job of writing a teenage who's a bit lost and making some bad decisions and dealing with grief and depression.
I really loved Ebony/Indigo's parents and wish I'd had that base in my life! I also thought it was brilliant how the author added moments Ebony/Indigo missed by focussing on all the bad. It's such a good reminder to see the good in every day so we don't miss the beauty around us.
Can we also talk about this stunning cover artwork? WOW!
This would be a great book for a teen going through some tough times and needing to know they aren't alone and that they can get through it.
TO ORDER: What She Missed
FOLLOW ME ON IG: Momma Leighellens Book Nook on IG
WATCH MY BOOKTUBE: Momma Leighellens Book Nook on Book Tube
READ MY BLOG: Momma Leighellens Book Nook Blog
BROWSE MY PANGO SHELVES: Momma Leighellens Book Nook Pango Store
Liara Tamani
Storygram Book Tour
Out June 13, 2023
“It’s crazy how she could learn something about herself and then forget. Learn it again and think she’d learned something new.”
This his such a thoughtful and timely YA story about what we miss when our hearts are broken and we stop paying attention to all the good around us. It’s a coming of age story about a young girl who moves to a new town and struggles with the changes, the missed friends, all while still wrestling with the death of her grandmother.
“It’s funny how the worst things in life can hold the biggest opportunities. They’re hard to see at first, when things are dark and you think all is lost, but they’re there the whole time.”
I'm always a total sucker for a coming of age YA story, but I could totally relate to Ebony/Indigo!! I moved my senior year of high school and let me tell ya, it's very hard to find your footing and remember/know who you are when that happens. Especially at that age. I think the author did a wonderful job of writing a teenage who's a bit lost and making some bad decisions and dealing with grief and depression.
I really loved Ebony/Indigo's parents and wish I'd had that base in my life! I also thought it was brilliant how the author added moments Ebony/Indigo missed by focussing on all the bad. It's such a good reminder to see the good in every day so we don't miss the beauty around us.
Can we also talk about this stunning cover artwork? WOW!
This would be a great book for a teen going through some tough times and needing to know they aren't alone and that they can get through it.
TO ORDER: What She Missed
FOLLOW ME ON IG: Momma Leighellens Book Nook on IG
WATCH MY BOOKTUBE: Momma Leighellens Book Nook on Book Tube
READ MY BLOG: Momma Leighellens Book Nook Blog
BROWSE MY PANGO SHELVES: Momma Leighellens Book Nook Pango Store
July 15, 2025
3,5 csillag
Fogalmam sincs, hogy került a radaromra, de nem bánom, hogy odakerült. Hamisítatlan tiniregény, ahol főszereplőlányunk egyre ngyobb baromságokat csinál, saját magát keverve egyre nagyobb egzisztenciális válságba, miközben keresi magát, próbálja feldolgozni a gyászát, a költözést, az emberi kapcsolatait, és a festéshez való kapcsolatát. Kicsit kezdem kinőni ezt a fajta narratívát, a könyv felében fogtam a fejem, néha megcsapkodtam volna. Jut eszembe, ez a könyv tökéletes példája annak, hogy miért ne engedj tiniket nagy horderejű dolgok közelébe, mint pl. névváltoztatás.
A szerkezete tetszett, tiniként pláne odáig lettem volna a többször feltűnő „What She Missed” beszúrásokért az egyébként E/1.-ben folydogáló regényben. Egy kis perspektívaváltás mindig jó. A művészeti rész is tetszett. Sokszor nem működik nálam írott formátumban, de liara Tamani volt olyan jó író, hogy teljes festészeti analfabétizmusom ellenére bele tudtam élni magam a problémakörbe.
Az is tetszett, hogy nem volt húzva-nyúzva a történet, vállaltan csak Ebony/Indigo személyiségfejlődésére koncentráltunk egy nyár alatt, nem volt ennél több cselekmény úgymond, és ez a fókuszáltság a terjedelemben is visszaköszönt. Nem egész 6,5 óra volt a hangoskönyv, és elég volt.
Összességében szerintem teljesen rendben volt ez a kötet, semmi nagy extra varázs, valami pluszt még elbírt volna. De élvezhető volt, és kortárs ifjúsági téren kifejezetten egy jobb darab, értékeket képvisel.
Fogalmam sincs, hogy került a radaromra, de nem bánom, hogy odakerült. Hamisítatlan tiniregény, ahol főszereplőlányunk egyre ngyobb baromságokat csinál, saját magát keverve egyre nagyobb egzisztenciális válságba, miközben keresi magát, próbálja feldolgozni a gyászát, a költözést, az emberi kapcsolatait, és a festéshez való kapcsolatát. Kicsit kezdem kinőni ezt a fajta narratívát, a könyv felében fogtam a fejem, néha megcsapkodtam volna. Jut eszembe, ez a könyv tökéletes példája annak, hogy miért ne engedj tiniket nagy horderejű dolgok közelébe, mint pl. névváltoztatás.
A szerkezete tetszett, tiniként pláne odáig lettem volna a többször feltűnő „What She Missed” beszúrásokért az egyébként E/1.-ben folydogáló regényben. Egy kis perspektívaváltás mindig jó. A művészeti rész is tetszett. Sokszor nem működik nálam írott formátumban, de liara Tamani volt olyan jó író, hogy teljes festészeti analfabétizmusom ellenére bele tudtam élni magam a problémakörbe.
Az is tetszett, hogy nem volt húzva-nyúzva a történet, vállaltan csak Ebony/Indigo személyiségfejlődésére koncentráltunk egy nyár alatt, nem volt ennél több cselekmény úgymond, és ez a fókuszáltság a terjedelemben is visszaköszönt. Nem egész 6,5 óra volt a hangoskönyv, és elég volt.
Összességében szerintem teljesen rendben volt ez a kötet, semmi nagy extra varázs, valami pluszt még elbírt volna. De élvezhető volt, és kortárs ifjúsági téren kifejezetten egy jobb darab, értékeket képvisel.
July 11, 2023
Sixteen-year-old Ebony Jones is devastated when her family moves from Houston to her grandmother’s house in the country. There’s absolutely nothing for Ebony in Alula Lake, Texas. So she thinks.
I love how this novel transported me to Alula Lake. It made me remember summers spent with my grandma, childhood besties you saw once a year that somehow knew you even better than your other friends. Ebony's feeling of grief are felt through the pages. She's grieving the tragic loss of her grandmother, the loss of the life she knew and loved when her family uproots her from her world in Houston to Alula Lake. Ebony may frustrate you as a reader rooting for her but she is totally relatable. In dealing with her loss and trying to find herself in the chaos Ebony makes some impulsive choices that begin to lead her down a troubling path. We follow her journey in hopes that she's able to overcome her troubles and find her footing in her new life. The novel does a great job of capturing raw teenage emotion. Told from Ebony's point of view I liked the added parts were we got insight into Jalen's view of Ebony and how he sees her struggling. I enjoyed the supporting characters. An insightful and thoughtful YA novel. I would recommend.
I love how this novel transported me to Alula Lake. It made me remember summers spent with my grandma, childhood besties you saw once a year that somehow knew you even better than your other friends. Ebony's feeling of grief are felt through the pages. She's grieving the tragic loss of her grandmother, the loss of the life she knew and loved when her family uproots her from her world in Houston to Alula Lake. Ebony may frustrate you as a reader rooting for her but she is totally relatable. In dealing with her loss and trying to find herself in the chaos Ebony makes some impulsive choices that begin to lead her down a troubling path. We follow her journey in hopes that she's able to overcome her troubles and find her footing in her new life. The novel does a great job of capturing raw teenage emotion. Told from Ebony's point of view I liked the added parts were we got insight into Jalen's view of Ebony and how he sees her struggling. I enjoyed the supporting characters. An insightful and thoughtful YA novel. I would recommend.
November 2, 2025
What She Missed by Liara Tamani is a heartfelt high school love story that follows Ebony as she navigates the many challenges of growing up, including grief, moving to a new home, and dealing with depression, among other struggles faced by teenagers in an imperfect world. Although this is not the type of story I typically read, it served as a refreshing and enjoyable palate cleanser.
Liara Tamani beautifully captures the impact of childhood trauma and the process of healing from it in healthy ways. This, in my opinion, is the book’s greatest strength. The emotional honesty and sensitivity with which she portrays Ebony’s growth make the story resonate deeply.
The one aspect I wished had been explored further was Ebony and Jalen’s relationship. At times, their connection felt rushed and somewhat underdeveloped, especially toward the end of the book. By the conclusion, I found myself wanting more insight into how their relationship would continue to evolve.
Despite this, I thoroughly enjoyed the story and would highly recommend it to readers seeking a comforting, character-driven book that focuses on love, healing, and self-discovery.
Liara Tamani beautifully captures the impact of childhood trauma and the process of healing from it in healthy ways. This, in my opinion, is the book’s greatest strength. The emotional honesty and sensitivity with which she portrays Ebony’s growth make the story resonate deeply.
The one aspect I wished had been explored further was Ebony and Jalen’s relationship. At times, their connection felt rushed and somewhat underdeveloped, especially toward the end of the book. By the conclusion, I found myself wanting more insight into how their relationship would continue to evolve.
Despite this, I thoroughly enjoyed the story and would highly recommend it to readers seeking a comforting, character-driven book that focuses on love, healing, and self-discovery.
July 15, 2023
Thanks to HarperCollins Children's Books, Greenwillow Books, Netgalley and Liara Tamani for this ARC.
The YA story follows sixteen year old Ebony Jones after learning that her family will be leaving Houston and moving into the home of her late grandmother in Alula, Texas. Her grandmother's death causes her to question so many things about herself.
Ebony/Indigo is not a likeable character initially. However, as the book unfolds we are provided with glimpses on into her mind via the "what she missed" inserts. I liked Jalen, her childhood friend that she reconnects with during this time. As their friendship begins to evolve so does her self destructive actions. Their budding romance unfolds throughout the book.
Indigo's journey to self-discovery is a trainwreck of low self esteem, sadness, impulsively, teenage emotions and repressed feelings that all to a collision during this summer at Alula Lake. She'll also discover that there is light in the darkness that surrounds her, if she is willing to allow it to take hold.
This was a wonderfully written story about self-discovery, grief and love.
Rating: 5/5
The YA story follows sixteen year old Ebony Jones after learning that her family will be leaving Houston and moving into the home of her late grandmother in Alula, Texas. Her grandmother's death causes her to question so many things about herself.
Ebony/Indigo is not a likeable character initially. However, as the book unfolds we are provided with glimpses on into her mind via the "what she missed" inserts. I liked Jalen, her childhood friend that she reconnects with during this time. As their friendship begins to evolve so does her self destructive actions. Their budding romance unfolds throughout the book.
Indigo's journey to self-discovery is a trainwreck of low self esteem, sadness, impulsively, teenage emotions and repressed feelings that all to a collision during this summer at Alula Lake. She'll also discover that there is light in the darkness that surrounds her, if she is willing to allow it to take hold.
This was a wonderfully written story about self-discovery, grief and love.
Rating: 5/5
October 5, 2023
"What She Missed" by Liara Tamani is an exquisite literary gem that left me utterly captivated and deeply moved. This beautifully written novel is a poignant exploration of change, family, friendship, and the transformative power of nature.
From the moment I opened its pages, I was transported into the world of sixteen-year-old Ebony Jones. Her struggles and emotions felt so authentic that I couldn't help but be drawn into her story. Moving from a bustling city to a quiet lake town might seem like a nightmare to Ebony, but the way Tamani captures her journey of self-discovery in this new environment is nothing short of magical.
The relationships in this book are beautifully portrayed, particularly the evolving dynamics between Ebony, Jalen, and Lena. The complexities of friendship, family, and love are explored with depth and nuance, making the characters feel real and relatable.
I can't recommend it enough – it's a must-read for anyone who appreciates beautifully written, emotionally resonant stories.
From the moment I opened its pages, I was transported into the world of sixteen-year-old Ebony Jones. Her struggles and emotions felt so authentic that I couldn't help but be drawn into her story. Moving from a bustling city to a quiet lake town might seem like a nightmare to Ebony, but the way Tamani captures her journey of self-discovery in this new environment is nothing short of magical.
The relationships in this book are beautifully portrayed, particularly the evolving dynamics between Ebony, Jalen, and Lena. The complexities of friendship, family, and love are explored with depth and nuance, making the characters feel real and relatable.
I can't recommend it enough – it's a must-read for anyone who appreciates beautifully written, emotionally resonant stories.
July 22, 2023
This book did not hook me right away, but once it did, about 1/3 of the way in, I was fully engaged in Ebony's tale. Ebony, whose parents recently moved from a large town where her friends and arts high school are located, is not happy to be back in the small town she visited every summer to stay with her grandmother. At first this seemed like your typical big city girl moves and has angst about it story, but Ebony is dealing with grief, depression, and identity issues that make this a much heavier read. Tamani gives Ebony a lot to deal with, and a lot of her feelings of anger with no outlet that splashes onto too many people around her felt well described, like what I remember being a teenager is like at its worst. The interspersed chapters of describing what Ebony missed in some of her interactions/experiences were a welcome glimpse beyond the third person narration centered on Ebony.
Thanks to NetGalley for this advanced copy.
Thanks to NetGalley for this advanced copy.
July 24, 2023
I'd like to thank Netgalley and HarperCollins Children's Books, Greenwillow Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Such a great coming of age story. When I started out I wasn't sure if I'd like this story or not but I'm glad I stuck with it.
Sixteen-year-old Ebony/Indigo is uprooted from her home and life in Houston to move to her late grandmother's house in the country. She's not happy to be back in Alula Lake, Texas, where her grandmother drowned 6 years ago and struggles being there. Her life is spiraling out of control and she's going down a troubling path. I think this book is relatable to so many girls out there and how just one choice can change everything. Ebony can be unlikable at times and you just want to yell at her to straighten up but being a mother of two teenage girls and was once a teen myself I can see how she makes the mistakes she does and the turmoil she is going through.
Such a perfect story about self-discovery, grief and love.
Such a great coming of age story. When I started out I wasn't sure if I'd like this story or not but I'm glad I stuck with it.
Sixteen-year-old Ebony/Indigo is uprooted from her home and life in Houston to move to her late grandmother's house in the country. She's not happy to be back in Alula Lake, Texas, where her grandmother drowned 6 years ago and struggles being there. Her life is spiraling out of control and she's going down a troubling path. I think this book is relatable to so many girls out there and how just one choice can change everything. Ebony can be unlikable at times and you just want to yell at her to straighten up but being a mother of two teenage girls and was once a teen myself I can see how she makes the mistakes she does and the turmoil she is going through.
Such a perfect story about self-discovery, grief and love.
April 14, 2023
Wow.
I did not expect this novel to be nearly as heavy as it was, honestly. I wasn't a fan at the very beginning of the behaviors and actions of Ebony/Indigo, but I'm so glad I stayed until the end. This book had absolutely one of the best character improvements that I have ever read.
The cover art definitely draws you in, but Tamani's writing and portrayal of the main character makes you want to know more.
It was hard at first, but you soon find compassion and empathy for Ebony/Indigo near the end of the novel. A definite 5 stars and a future recommended novel for me.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, HarperCollins Publishing, and Liara Tamani for giving me the pleasure of reading an ARC of #WhatSheMissed in exchange for a review.
I did not expect this novel to be nearly as heavy as it was, honestly. I wasn't a fan at the very beginning of the behaviors and actions of Ebony/Indigo, but I'm so glad I stayed until the end. This book had absolutely one of the best character improvements that I have ever read.
The cover art definitely draws you in, but Tamani's writing and portrayal of the main character makes you want to know more.
It was hard at first, but you soon find compassion and empathy for Ebony/Indigo near the end of the novel. A definite 5 stars and a future recommended novel for me.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, HarperCollins Publishing, and Liara Tamani for giving me the pleasure of reading an ARC of #WhatSheMissed in exchange for a review.
June 20, 2023
"What She Missed" is a heartfelt exploration of the human spirit, illuminating the power of resilience, love, and the importance of cherishing familial bonds. The story is beautifully crafted, leaving readers emotionally invested in Ebony's journey.
Set against a backdrop of self-discovery, love, and the trials of growing up, this novel offers a poignant exploration of the human experience, wrapped in the comforting embrace of the family trope.
With exquisite prose, the author masterfully captures the raw emotions, insecurities, and triumphs that define this critical stage of life. It is one of those coming of age stories that shows real glimpse of how difficult entering adulthood can be
Set against a backdrop of self-discovery, love, and the trials of growing up, this novel offers a poignant exploration of the human experience, wrapped in the comforting embrace of the family trope.
With exquisite prose, the author masterfully captures the raw emotions, insecurities, and triumphs that define this critical stage of life. It is one of those coming of age stories that shows real glimpse of how difficult entering adulthood can be
September 4, 2023
I won this book in a giveaway and I’m so glad that I did. Ebony is a teenage girl whose life has been turned upside down when her parents lose their jobs and they’re all forced to move into her deceased grandmother’s home. Ebony is quietly dealing with a lot of anger and depression and starts to follow the wrong crowd. But, at the same time, she’s also getting closer with her childhood best friend. Throughout the book, there are short chapter’s separate from the main chapters that share what Ebony is missing out on in her darkness. I’m a high school teacher and I definitely think this is the perfect book to keep in your classroom library.
November 3, 2023
I enjoyed this. While reading What She Missed I found myself getting so annoyed with Ebony/Indigo because of the way she was acting and then it hit me that I was her at one point. Grief manifests itself in so many ways and when you're young you do and say dumb things because you just don't know how to deal. I loved the setting of this on a lake. Ebony when through a lot and I love that her parents gave her grace because at one point I wanted her mom to cuss her out lol. I'm glad Ebony was able to realize she is amazing and to face her fears. Beautiful story and I'm so happy at the ending with her and Jalen. I was hoping he would forgive her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2024
I can't take this book. Not even the book, but the main girl. She is so awful the whole time. She is supposed to be this troubled teen that we all want to see make it through life. She's not. She's just a horrible person, who does horrible things throughout the book. There is no character development. She's just a bratty teen, who thinks her life sucks. And she ends up getting everything se wants. It only took a car crash, where she "almost lost her life." to help her realize she was being a horrific person. ( she hit a freaking dear, and only got a bloody nose.) I think I rolled my eyes out of there sockets multiple times. I was so glad when it was over. nice cover though.
February 17, 2023
A big thank you to net Galley for this e-arc!
This coming of age story of Indigo\Ebony was a ride I wasn’t ready for. Indigo didn’t want to move. She doesn’t know where her life is headed, and she is still grieving over her late grandmother. Taking this journey of self identity, grief, and insecurity was so emotional.As we get older, we sometimes forget what it was like finding ourselves as teenagers, what it was like to become who you truly are, and Ebony’s story really resonated with me.
The cover art is what made me want to request this arc. Absolutely beautiful.
This coming of age story of Indigo\Ebony was a ride I wasn’t ready for. Indigo didn’t want to move. She doesn’t know where her life is headed, and she is still grieving over her late grandmother. Taking this journey of self identity, grief, and insecurity was so emotional.As we get older, we sometimes forget what it was like finding ourselves as teenagers, what it was like to become who you truly are, and Ebony’s story really resonated with me.
The cover art is what made me want to request this arc. Absolutely beautiful.
December 30, 2024
I’m just getting around to actually reading this title. And man it actually got me out of my book slump. This book is about a girl named ebony well…lol anyways she’s going through grief, anger, and just trying to find out who she is and where she belongs. She was the most obnoxious character but it makes sense with her loss and her age. The book is pretty heavy but i like a good Ya novel where the author is not afraid to go there. The substance abuse part of the story reminds me so much of Jas Hammonds latest book. I def recommend
February 17, 2023
I loved this book! This author brilliantly portrays Ebony’s journey of struggles and love, a journey of growth, leading her to embrace the beautiful world she lives in. This book is also about genuine family struggles. I love the author’s descriptive words.
I have enjoyed reading Liara’s other books as well, and I’m always drawn into the lives of her characters. I will continue to follow this gifted artist. I can’t wait to read her next writing!
RD - an avid reader
I have enjoyed reading Liara’s other books as well, and I’m always drawn into the lives of her characters. I will continue to follow this gifted artist. I can’t wait to read her next writing!
RD - an avid reader
December 20, 2024
I enjoyed this book very much, it holds your attention from start to end.
Jackie's second book did not disappoint. I was hooked after the first chapter and couldn't put it down until I knew how it ended. Wondering if there's going to be another?
haven't finished the book yet but to this point, it is well written. I like the story line and the author has away of keeping it interesting. I really like her books
Jackie's second book did not disappoint. I was hooked after the first chapter and couldn't put it down until I knew how it ended. Wondering if there's going to be another?
haven't finished the book yet but to this point, it is well written. I like the story line and the author has away of keeping it interesting. I really like her books
September 26, 2025
Ebony/Indigo, more than colors, so much more than just a girl, and way more complicated than a name.
What she's missed was her old life, her friends, being an aloof teen, Houston city life, being a granddaughter, and swimming.
What she missed was the black hole at the bottom of depression that consumes you. What she missed was "that" opportunity with a friend but ended with THE opportunity with a TRUE friend.
What she sees is more clearly, the ones who are there AND care, and a future!
What she's missed was her old life, her friends, being an aloof teen, Houston city life, being a granddaughter, and swimming.
What she missed was the black hole at the bottom of depression that consumes you. What she missed was "that" opportunity with a friend but ended with THE opportunity with a TRUE friend.
What she sees is more clearly, the ones who are there AND care, and a future!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews