The Things We Leave Behind

The things we leave behind, follows a teenage girl in a dystopian society under a corrupt leader. It shows strong political views and discrimination between races. It also shows how protective she is of her younger sister and how much she values family. It also shows a case of her post traumatic stress, as although she has escaped to Scotland she is still haunted by her memories. I enjoyed how the author expressed a strong political opinion from the start to make it easier for the reader to differentiate between the good and bad characters while also helping them to connect with the main character. I also enjoyed the use of a flashback, the story starts at a point to interest you and make you question how she ended up in that situation and then it goes back in time to explain how the events leading up to that moment caused her situation. One thing I disliked about the book was the lack of detailed description of the characters and setting. Although the story was intriguing and well written it could have been written in a more descriptive way as to help the reader to picture the environment. Overall I feel the book was interesting and I enjoyed reading it, I feel it would be a good read for those of age eleven to thirteen.

Sophie

BCS Book Squad

I really enjoyed this book and the plot was really well thought out so it kept me reading until the end. My favourite part was the incredible ( and incredibly sad) plot twist near the end. It made me cry with sadness at Clem’s amazing courage, bravery and resilience at what she had to face to get to safety - at the cost she had to take. Overall, I think it shouldn’t win the prize but it should win some other prizes.

Genevieve

Beauchamp Champs 2025

This book really stuck with me. It showed how fast life can change and how important it is to be happy now. It's about losing something big and how hard it is to find your way after. I got really worried about Clem and Billie, and then, the ending. The reveal about Billie's fate wasn't just sad; it was a gut punch. It left me with a heavy feeling, a real sense of how fragile life can be, but also a powerful understanding of how people can keep going, even when things are incredibly hard. It's a story that stays with you, making you think about what truly matters.

Miroslava

Beauchamp Champs 2025

Miroslava

Beauchamp Champs 2025

The Things we leave behind is a very well-wriiten novel which explores the impact of the anti-immigrant sentiment. The story follows Clem and her half-sister Billie, as they take a tremendous journey from London, trying to escape the regime in London. The complex character of Clem appealed to me, and my only criticism would be the similarity to some other novels. I would recommend this to everyone who enjoys a suspenseful, complex story.

Tejas

Colchester Royal Grammar School

This book did not appeal to me because I couldn’t get into the story.

Arlo

Crypt Bookworms

The Things We Left Behind by Clare Furniss is a powerful and emotional story about grief and identity. The protagonist of the story follows Clem, a 17-year-old girl, as she travels from London all the way to Glasgow. Furniss shows Clem’s thought and emotions in detail, displaying how grief isn’t simple, but messy and emotional. The paper cranes Clem originally folded with Billie, her younger stepsister, now become a symbol of her attempting to understand her losses and still be hopeful. One of the best parts of the story is the relationship between Clem and Billie. Their bond is complicated, but it’s clear they care for each other deeply. Billie’s sense of humour and sarcasm also brought comedic relief in some parts of the book, balancing out the heavy themes of the novel. With the help of this connection, as well as a few others, Clem slowly starts to understand that healing isn’t about forgetting things that happened but learning how to live with what’s been left behind. Overall, I think that this story is a touching, emotional book about change. We definitely feel sympathetic for Clem by the end of the book. I rate this book a 6-7/10

Zainab

Beauchamp Champs 2025

The book was good but the plot lacked any dynamics as throughout the book the same thing happened: mum is taken, sister is taken, dad is taken. It lacked diversity. However, I liked the description and character development of Clem.

matt

Brooke Weston Book Busters

I found, The Things we Left Behind, a really good book I found it hard to get into at the start as it skipped ahead in time so i did not understand what was going on. I t was a really good book and I highly recommended it.

Rhiannon

Egglescliffe

The Things we Leave Behind, an adventurous book I found intriguing, left me fascinated by the heart-touching story of a refugee girl who find a place to live desperately. On a personal note, I found this book breathtaking-however, the plot twist at the end was very unexpected and left me with a great deal of sadness!

Zaynab

KECHG Shadowers

The things we leave behind was great but it was heavier than the 100 tonne weight in a roadrunner sketch. Firstly, I both hated and enjoyed how the author always had you on the ropes, they gave information about what actually happened to Clem but then it turns out that they were making it up to cope with the (much worse) real story. It felt like a gut-punch or more aptly, a gut-sledgehammer. I had to put the book down multiple times because I just had to let what was revealed sink in before continuing. I say this as if it's purely negative but that couldn't be further than my stance on it, everything felt so real because of it. Without those viscerally sad moments you wouldn't be reminded that the book is trying to present a future that could possibly be real. The driving force behind the book (Toby Knight's regime) is just plain scary. It parallels Nazi Germany in more ways than one: dobbing people in for going against really trivial rules, uniting the people under a common enemy (terrorist threats instead of Jews) and the absolute power of the leader. But instead of being in Germany in the early - mid 20th century, its in England set in the time period of now. It really makes you think that this kind of thing could-well happen here. Overall I did enjoy this book but it was hard to read.

Alexander

THS Shadowing

This book makes us scared for our future in these turbulent times . It makes us feel scared for our future and our family. It makes us place our selves in the place of refugees instead of only hearing about in the news. It places us in vulnerable positions that us westerners are not used too. Certain details made it seem very real and thoughtful. However, some details were a bit cliche, such as the paper cranes, which is an overused plot device. Apart from that it's fantastic 7.5/10.

Jonty

Bilbo Baggins’ Bookworms

Very good and heartfelt but there was no real twist in the story or if it was meant to be you could tell it from a mile away.

Willow

CGS CAKE Club

I think the front cover describe what the blurb says very well since it it tell us two sisters go on a flight to start a new life an the front cover shows the sister and the bird could symbolise life and the flight

Eve

Emmanuel Literati

The Things We Leave Behind is an excellent story! It is an amazing picture of how family life can scar you. Clem forces herself not to leave behind one of her closest friends and imagines what she'd be like if she were there. Not only does the end twist the story, but also makes me feel sorry for her. Losing so many family members and friends in such a short period of time can be heartbreaking. The way she copes and deals with it is unimaginable. She does find a new life with someone she loves, but not who you would expect. The Things We Leave Behind is an epic novel, it will keep you guessing till the end, keep you turning every page. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Becca

Larkmead

"The Things We Leave Behind" did make me cry towards the end. I found the premise of the book very engaging, as I thought maybe this kind of situation could happen to us in the future if someone threatening got into power. I also thought that maybe it was a case of the premise of the book was better than the actual writing style. I found myself thinking that if the book was about anything else I might not make it all the way through. Having said that I did love some certain characters like Sean who I found very loveable and sweet, and Claudia who I thought acted like I might in those situations. Imogen Glass however I found incredibly one dimensional, and Bridie, who I felt was a bit of a lazy plot device. I did love how it explored very serious issues like dementia and displacement through something more fun and thrilling. The twist I thought was beautiful and I enjoyed reading it very much. I found myself turning through the pages, but I did find it slow at times and I wasn't a huge fan of the writing style so I would give it 7 stars out of ten.

Seb

Bilbo Baggins’ Bookworms

This was a really beautiful and important book that illustrates a far-right dystopian England and Wales in such a raw and impactful way. It arguably has much higher significance due to the rise of Nigel Farage and Donald Trump's presidency, and invokes a huge amount of empathy for refugees and those living in authoritarian countries, by bringing it closer to home. It also explores grief in a really sensitive and unique style, and has one of the most beautiful endings I have ever read. Overall, I would definitely recommend this book, as one that I couldn't put down.

Eve

St Kaths

The Things We Leave Behind by Clare Furniss is a great book and I enjoyed it. This book is about a girl called Clem and her half-sister Billie. London is no longer safe for them to live in. They have escaped to Scotland as there is civil unrest. I love how the book is laid out and the multi-layered narrative. There are text messages throughout the book and I thought that was really cool and relatable. I rate this book a 7/10.

Ailise

Rebel Readers

The Things We Leave Behind is a beautifully written and emotional story about grief, family, and self-discovery. The characters feel real, and the writing is deeply engaging. However, the details about Clem’s sister near the end were a bit confusing. Despite that, it’s a powerful and unforgettable read. I rate this book 5 out of 5

Eeshal

FOFF Girls

This book is the best book I've read in a long time, its about clems journey from London to Glasgow. In the story you follow her and her sister, but then you figure out that Billie was her imagination and that she died a lot earlier in the story. The last 30 pages made me cry, and i would defiantly recommend it.

Billy C

Ermysted’s

If this book doesn't win the award, I'm going to be genuinely upset. From the start, I found the premise of this book to be extremely interesting and topical, especially in light of everything that is currently happening around the world. I believe that the premise of the book was executed very well in terms of how realistic it was, and I didn't once find a part of the wider plot to be far-fetched or unrealistic. Clem, our protagonist, is very easily sympathised with, and I found it very easy to put myself in her position throughout the book, and -at times- made me cry as a result. Which leads me onto my next point: never have I cried more reading a book than I have this one. The emotional scenes are so well written, to the point where I think I was crying for the entire back end of the book just thinking of how Clem may have been feeling throughout it all. If I had to say my favourite part of the book, I'd have to say the ending by far. It was so unexpected, especially the final plot twist, and it's hard to find books that manage to keep such a major secret from you without you catching on. Also, I feel that the slightly more bittersweet ending was needed in this book, especially due to the topic it was addressing; oftentimes, people in situations similar to Clem's don't get to experience a happy ending, and I feel that making it a happy ending would be slightly unrealistic or idyllic compared to the bleak reality of things. All I have to say in regards to criticism may be the way the book was structured, as I found it hard to find natural pauses and areas to put the book down, and I think that the book may have a lesser impact if you were to read it in portions rather than in one long sitting. The Things We Leave Behind is an enlightening and emotional read, and when reading, you should keep a tissue box ready for the inevitable tears.

Amisha

The Gartree Vampires

This book is really intriguing and until I finished the book, I would not put it down. The dystopian setting of this book helps us to realise that this book actually does have some disturbing truth in it. Clare Furniss has done an excellent job with a unique story whilst hiding some truth in it. It is an emotional book that helps us to feel empathy to refugees and show us what would happen if a ‘dictating government’ came into power.

Shreya

Bilbo Baggins’ Bookworms

After reading this book, I was lost in thoughts. I knew that refugees had hard lives but I never imagined how hard. Hearing Clem's story and her point of view made me feel as if I was her and it was really interesting to be manipulated by the author into thinking and feeling a certain way. To describe the book in three words, I would say: interesting, gripping and overall amazing!

Aisha

KECHG Shadowers

A beautifully written story with a lot of emotions throughout it. It was a bit difficult to grasp at the start but once I'd read a bit I got really into it. The plot twist is heartbreaking and I almost cried. I would definitely read it again!

Emma

Fiction Addiction

The book had an interesting premise and emotional moments, but the pacing was slow at times. Pretty good book considering it's not my type. The ending was impactful, but overall, it didn’t fully hold my attention.

Baasit

Ermysted’s

This book took me a while to get into but once you have got the flow of the story it becomes less confusing. I love dystopian books and this was no exception I love that it's in a setting we know and love while being so different. It shows just what could happen when the wrong people get into power. This book made me cry at some points and has the best ending I have ever read. Truly an amazing book.

Jess

CSGS Page Turners 25

'The Things We Leave Behind' leads you through a journey of survival in a future disturbingly similar to what some people face today. It is easy to imagine yourself in the position of Clem, our protagonist, making the message this story leaves you with all the more potent. This book, while being one of adventure, illustrates effectively the need to bring peace through justice in a setting that we once believed was safe from autocracy, and it is done brilliantly.

Theo

Bilbo Baggins’ Bookworms

The start of the book is hard to grasp, I find the book hard to relate to which makes it challenging to read and paragraph layout was slightly confusing which did not make me want to continue the read. Sorry Clare.

Arnav

OAJW Golden Reader Club

I thought it was brilliant,I loved how it was different to other refuge novels and also since it was set in London I could relate to the characters feelings about the country. At the end I felt that they shouldn't of made Billie die because it would of gave it a happier ending I also thought that maybe they should of found the dad again in the end but other than that I loved the writers wording and how they described how Clem was feeling and I also liked the little Mischa voice in her head at all times.

Sophia

VISTA Academy

This book was a great read. It tells the tale of Clem's journey to Scotland to escape the civil unrest in London and I personally loved it.

Plum

St Kaths

This book is an amazing whirlwind of emotions and carefully thought about truths. Clem is a character who despite all the traumatizing experiences she faces, she only has one objective in mind - make it out alive. She is in a world of unrest and danger that can never be shown on her face or in her actions, because she's not alone- she has a sister. This chair- strapping novel is one of upheaval, love, hate and confused truths, will Clem and Billie make it out or will painful memories get in the way and cause unfixable problems. This book is an amazing read and I would recommend this book for anyone aged 12- 15 and in need of a delicious tasting thriller.

Pixie

Book Squad

A challenging book to read. Setting it in a recognisable time with politics as it is presently left me feeling uncomfortable. The description of the journey to Scotland reminded me of stories set in ww2 but also of the channel crossings attempted most days. I didn't spot the twist. I found the fiction story in italics irritating and distracting from the main. Very thought provoking.

Sarah

THS Shadowing

'The Things We Leave Behind' is a very well written book that resembles the year it was written almost perfectly when compared to the political situation that could have occurred after the 2024 General Elections. The characters are tragic but add life to a story that would otherwise be bland and a slight comedic tone lightens up the story. I like this book because it's a dystopia, but unlike most dystopias I have read which are future (e.g. Mortal Engines) or sci-fi (e.g. Arc of a Scythe, Raft) it is set in the modern day. 8.5/10

Thomas

Carnegievores

I enjoy dystopian fiction, and this book did not disappoint. It was frightening real in its description of how the government moved so quickly to the right and how fast things became dangerous for anyone with a different opinion. It all seems quite close to home and is a reminder not to take the freedoms we enjoy for granted. The story was exciting, it moved at quite a pace, and kept me wanting to read on. I kind of suspected the twist towards the end, but I was so hoping I was wrong! A really well considered story that promotes empathy towards others, and challenges us to think about the way in which aspects of our world are changing... scary!

Ros

Balla Bookworms

At the start of the book, it was a bit confusing because the timeline kept on jumping to different time. As the book progressed, the story became more understandable as it was much less jumpy. I really liked the character development and I liked the side story as it had some connection to the main story line. All round, it was a very good book

Jeevan

Ermysted’s

Hanzalah

Ermysted’s

'The Things We Leave Behind' was an exceptional story by Clare Furniss that led me through many emotional roller-coasters. I particularly enjoyed the ending (which brought me to tears in two separate places!) as it brought the entire novel together in the last gut-wrenching chapters. My favourite part, however, was that if you re-read certain parts, you can see that a certain character (no spoilers) can be written out and it would still make sense. 10/10, I would definitely recommend this story to anyone who enjoys dystopian novels with a personal touch.

Kristina

Brooke Weston Book Busters

The Things we leave behind shows that you never know when things will make a change for the worst and that there will be terrible times ahead but there will also be good times in the future too. I felt at one with the author and I think I shared her thoughts as I turned the pages of this wonderful story. I would have liked to see more information about if her Dad had survived or not. I also would like to see how much everything had an impact on the rest of the world. I personally loved the book and it rose to meet my expectations.

Matthew B

Ermysted’s

I loved The Things we leave Behind. I loved the family dynamic that Clem had, it was really sweet to see. The plot twist was really shocking and it would have made me cry had I not been in school. It was interesting to see how the world slowly shifted into paranoia and what could occur if such events did happen. I would highly reccomend it.

Daisy

Wyedean School

This book was heart breaking but it's sad that this is a reality for some people who have to face what Clem had to go through. The plot twist was so unexpected and I love the counsellor as it added lots of depth to the book. Finally, I loved how it was very realistic and didn't have your typical happy ending.

Tami

Bogle’s Book Worms

Great life lesson, but slow to read. I struggled with the narrative of this book, I thought all the jumping between past and present was confusing, and when Clem missed things out and added things in, I didn't know what was real or not. This may have been intentional, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I would with a different format. I also thought the book had a very important life lesson, like how we don't think sometimes how hard it is for people to live, and how traumatic and devastating changes can be for some people, and how we should speak out if we know something's not right . It is very important it is to treat everyone with respect.

Edmund W

Ermysted’s

The Things We Leave Behind is a book about a possible image of the future where a prime minister is attempting to deport anyone with foreign heritage. In a terrifying turn of events, the protagonist, Clem, is separated from a member of her family and has to escape England in fear of the government. Towards the climax of the book, the author was very good at building tension and keeping me guessing. My personal favourite character was Billie. I feel that she was a very accurate and well written character but also someone you can easily become quite attached to. One issue I had with this book was the way it was written at some points. The book definitely confused me a little bit at first and I had to read it a couple of times to get my head around it. Overall I think it was a good book and I would definitely recommend it, especially if you’re a reader who likes dystopian novels. I would personally give this book between 7 and 8/10.

isla

The Fitzharrys Shadows

The Things We Leave Behind was a great read. Although confusing at first, after a few chapters I was hooked. A key factor of this was the plot, which stayed solid throughout the whole book and never wavered. This was then backed up by some solid characters and a fairy tale that was nicely woven between the pages which simplified the whole plot down although it had a different setting. My favourite character was surprisingly Clem as I found she had a very fitting personality and backstory. Probably the best part about this book however was the setting - London in the modern day with a dictator in power. The reason I liked this so much was because of the stark reality of how close it is to some situations in the world right now. There are very few things to discredit this book on but one of them would have to be the time jumps at the start of the book as they made it very confusing to figure out where you actually are: London or Scotland as the start of each chapter does not contain a phrase that tells you this information. However, the heartbreaking plot twist at the end definitely makes up for it. Personally, I really enjoyed the repetition of the scene of the protest using the same words for the first few paragraphs as it made me think back and reflect on the previous events of the book. Overall it was an amazing book with a good plot, characters and a scarily similar scenario to the modern day. Score: Plot:8/10 Characters:8/10 Setting:10/10 Originality:7/10 Total:33/40

Sevan

Ermysted’s

This book was very good but very depressing. It had compelling characters, and made me want to keep on reading. I loved the twist at the end (which I won't say because of spoilers) but it was confusing at the start. Very good book. 8/10

Elliott.H

Ermysted’s

Front cover: In my opinion, the front cover is quite a powerful image as the paper cranes trapped in the barbed wire represent the captured wishes. Additionally, this has been used before to show article 13 (freedom of movement) of human rights in the book 'We are all born free.' Using this image suggests that the children in the centre are leaving their lives behind. Blurb: I think that the blurb creates a sad effect where fear has taken over and 2 young girls have had to flee to get to safety and have left everything behind. The rhetorical questions at the end create a sense of mystery and leave us wondering how things will work out for the sisters, what stories they have to tell and what secret Clem is keeping.

Francesca

Emmanuel Literati

This book is a fiction story with Clem as a main character along with her sister Billie. Their Grandfather is like a real person to me, as I have had the experience of Clem it that bit. This book made me tear up a few times but kept me guessing all through. The one bad thing is that I wish I could find out what happened to the character at the end. Overall this is a really good book and I would read it again.

Pola

The Fitzharrys Shadows

This book is quite dark and very interesting. The book was very immersive and it captivated me. It shows that not everything will last forever

Tejas

SGS Eclipse

This book was exciting, scary and moving. I really enjoyed this dystopian novel that was sometimes too close for comfort. I loved the characters, and the story flowed well.

Ros

Balla Bookworms

I really loved this book as it was beautifully written and an experience to read. My favourite part was when Clem and Claudia are in the end living by the sea and Mischa contacts her. The most surprising part was when you find out that Billie (her sister) was actually killed at the protest and she has been imagining her sister with her the entire time. I loved it and I rate it a 9.9/10

Sophia

The John Mason Shadowers

I found the pace of this a little slow at the start but it really picked up speed as the book went along and it became quite gripping from about a third of the way in. There are stories within stories as the main character, Clem, voices her own feelings about loss (temporary and permanent). There are lots of loose ends to tie up at the and I think that the author does a good job of leaving the reader satisfied and interested to know how it all turns out for each of the characters. We are left with hope even though we don't know exactly how things end for everyone.

Ms Shakhov

Carnegie@StBede’s

I think this book should maybe be aimed at a higher age as it contains some strong language and some under age drinking. I think that this book should be aimed at 14+. This book is about a beggar named Clem and a more fortune person named Polly. I was shocked at the plot twist. I also think that this book can be confusing at times but I enjoyed figuring out and finally understanding those confusing bits. The story itself is very intriguing and the anticipation makes yo want to continue and read more of the book. I also liked how it was a different type of book to what I would usually pick to read and now I will start to read and enjoy reading different genres.

George

The WH shadowers

This book is absolutely amazing and I couldn't put it down at all while I was reading. I loved how the voice of Mischa was there through the whole book and I almost cried at the ending but tried extra hard not to 'cause I was in class. I also really liked the format where there weren't really any chapters and it was just split into 3/4 sections and Clem was telling the story to someone who I think was a therapist or a psychologist so we were experiencing it with her.

Libby

The Willink readers

A fantastic book that evokes a lot of emotion. It was very intriguing and depicts a world where it's an authoritarian regime. Overall, very good and sentimental. I rate this book 4 out of 5.

Vyga

FOFF Girls

An absolutely un-put-downable, dystopian book! Set in a world that is waaaaaaay too familiar for my liking! The story focuses on race, hatred and mixed/blended families and the many political & social issues that under-pin them. I had read this book previously to it being shortlisted and enjoyed it immensely! In fact, I made it my favourite book of last Autumn's term! The story focuses on our main character, Clem, and her blended family. Clem and her half-sister Billie flee London after civil unrest explodes and their dad fears for their safety. So how does she end up in Scotland alone, telling her story to a complete stranger? I loved the way the book unfolds and in one shock revaluation, after another shock revelation, it will leave you feeling like you experienced everything that Clem and her family suffer. I rate this book 4.5 out of 5.

Mrs Allsopp

FOFF Girls

The things we leave behind is very confusing and it has lots of written perspectives the main themes of this book were: Family bonds and Loss and memory. I really would recommend this book if you love books that go back to places. The book was a little bit confusing but really good I was shocked when I read the plot twist and the siblings sound like they have a good bond. I felt like i was in the book myself and i could never put the book down.

Rose

OSSMAORATORS

This book was written in lots of perspectives and not in traditional linear narrative, this did make it slightly confusing, but its theme was very good with a great tone set from the first page. We understand the great relationship between Billie and Clem evident from the get go. Reminisce from the past also pops up through the book making it very heartfelt, however this is contrasted with extreme authoritarian views which underlies the book. Clare Furniss obviously has great ideas and is plentiful of storylines but I believe the book could be slightly more concise focusing on just Clem. Overall a good book, however I would say it's a challenging read. 7/10.

Warren

OSSMAORATORS

The Things We Leave Behind by Clare Furniss is a very confusing novel as you cant follow the story, it stars with one thing like a party then goes to a swimming pool. The story isn't very gripping as was said before its very hard to follow. I believe that the writer had a busy mindset and didn't have a set plotline of what they were going to do with the story. We have said that we are very unlikely to read the book again. Overall it wasn't really interesting however if it was more clear on what the writer was intending then i would enjoy it more but it was really confusing.

Briana

OSSMAORATORS

the things we leave behind by Clare Furniss is a very confusing novel as it takes you through a journey that doesn't really have an ending and for me the story is not a very gripping one as you cant really follow the story. In my opinion the scene with the homeless girl and the café sticks in my head the most as it is one of the most emotional parts and is a very memorable part of the story. My thoughts of the author is that she has a very busy mindset and didn't have a clear idea on where the story was going and i wouldn't read another book by this author

Noah

OSSMAORATORS

The Thing We Leave Behind is beautifully written. It follows a girl and her sister fleeing their home and trying to find somewhere safe while everything they know changes . I loved how there is a story told along with the main plotline which relates to the situations they are in. The ending was surprising while still making sense. The book really makes you think about what the world is like and what it could be like. I loved it and will definitely read it again although it was very sad .

Evie

STAGS Shadowers

I really enjoyed this book because it made me understand the hardships of the world we could end up living in, in the future. I loved the 1000 paper cranes theme as I can make cranes myself.

Willow

Ely College Reading Group

This profoundly captivating novel left an indelible impression, compelling me to soberly contemplate its overarching themes and harrowing denouement. I would bestow upon it a 4.5/5 rating for its exceptional intellectual depth and incisive critique of contemporary societal structures. The narrative is masterfully constructed to counterpoint modern immigration policies, situating itself in a dystopian realm where "pure British" lineage is requisite for societal inclusion—a chilling yet evocative premise. What sets this work apart is the breathtakingly unforeseen plot twist in its final act, an ingenious revelation that redefines the entire narrative. The book merits immense commendation not only for the pertinence of its societal critique but also for its intricate portrayal of character dynamics. The evolving bonds between the characters are both poignant and profound, underscoring themes of resilience and interconnectedness. The revelation of a predestined connection adds an additional layer of emotional gravity, while the unyielding strength exhibited by the protagonists throughout their arduous journey evokes profound empathy. Particularly heart-rending are the experiences of the younger characters, whose trials resonate deeply. This is a narrative that is, at its core, affectionate, empathetic, and imbued with a heartrending despair, making it a literary work of considerable merit and emotional resonance.

Summaya

FOFF Girls

I think the book was very nice and heartfelt. I really felt for Clem with what happened to Billie because it can be hard to deal with loss. I also like how Clem and Billie had to move because of the corrupt government as it helped show the element of adventure. I think that showing more of the backstory of Claudia and more into Clem's life at the end of the book would be good. Apart from that it was a really good book.

Angel

Fiction Addiction

This is my favourite of the Carnegies so far! It was a bit confusing as there were 3-4 different story lines being told at one point. However, I thought it was beautifully written and would definitely recommend to lots of people!

Livie

St Kaths

I didn't really understand this book - I may try to read it again.

Kianna

QEGS CARNEGIE BOOK CLUB

I am finding this book really thrilling and fun to read and the story is spectacular. I haven't found anything that I didn't like in the book so far. I would rate this an 8 out of 10 - but I haven't finished it yet, so there is much more to come!

Toby

QEGS CARNEGIE BOOK CLUB

The things we leave behind was an amazing book, which covered many interesting topics and stories. The plot twist was unexpected and emotional. Overall, I really enjoyed it and found I could barely put it down.

Hannah

Bogle’s Book Worms

This is a gripping dystopian book that had me hooked. Set in a near future world that is distant from reality, but instantly recognisable, this book explores political and social issues that young readers will relate too. I rate this book 4 out of 5

Maryam

FOFF Girls

It nearly made me cry with the shocking plot twist! It was really emotional and heartwarming. A definate must read! I rate this book 4 out of 5

Aqila

FOFF Girls

"The Things We Leave Behind" was a book with a really deep plot, and every page I ended made me want to read more. I could definitely sympathize with the characters in this book, and the political part in this was covered very brilliantly as well.

Yuvan

Colchester Royal Grammar School

Such a great book with an amazing twist at the end that really made me love it. I am hoping for there to be a sequel.

Ernest

TBGS Readers

The book "The things we leave behind" by Clare Furniss is a well thought through piece with a deep understanding of disasters and how people have to carry on throughout hard times even when it gets challenging. She had an original idea, and the believability and consistency of her work was great. She created an amazing atmosphere which gripped the reader until the very last page. On the other hand, at some points during the book it became hard to understand what exactly was happening, since it jumped from the main character in the future talking about her experiences to her actually living them. Since there was no discernible difference between these, it was hard to tell the difference. Also because there was no chapters there was no break in the description making it drag a little.

Alice

Diary of a Wally Kid

Immediately the cover of this book sparked serval questions that I can't wait to start reading to find out such as... Why are there yellow paper cranes circling a presumably woman and child? Why is the book almost entirely black apart from the cranes, the tiny photo of the mother and child walking into a golden sunset and a feather? What is the feather symbolising? I am so intrigued by the book and can't wait to start reading to get more questions and find more answers.

Megan

Emmanuel Literati

The Things We Leave Behind is a great book, which follows the story on a girl called Clem who has to leave her home. I find it very interesting to learn about Clem's journey and how it is set as she is telling it to Polly. I think Overall it is one of the best books I have read (top5), the only thing that would make it better if the mild swearing was removed. Clem's journey is majestic and heart-warming, a good book for anyone who can take some mild swearing and solitariness, and can take some struggles

Talulah

Chiswick Carnegie

‘The Things We Leave Behind’ is a dystopian novel about London being the centre of a refugee crisis. It’s about losing the people we love and having to keep going anyway. My favourite character is Billie because she’s so innocent but always trying to keep Clem happy. It personally made me cry quite a bit but I really enjoyed it. It was a really gripping novel- I couldn’t stop reading! Although I really loved it, I wish it was a little less sad because I feel like happy books are easier for me to read. However if you like sad books, this book is definitely for you. I would suggest this book for slightly older readers, because I know books with themes of refugees can be difficult for younger readers. I would rate it a 9/10.

Hannah

The Fitzharrys Shadows

I thought the things we leave behind was a lovely book. It had an intriguing storyline and the connection through characters were expertly planned. I loved reading this book and I would recommend it to lots of people.

Emily

Fiction Addiction

Enter a world where power goes mad and the anger of citizens target any refugee or foreigner living in the UK. It doesn't matter if you are born in England. If the Government decides your ancestry is foreign, you too are a target. Clem's last perfect day has gone and in it's place is a world that destroys her family and sends her on a journey to find safety and a haven away from the horrors of London and her home. Her Step mom is gone, taken away. Her father is entering a world of danger and resistance. That leaves her, in charge of her young sister, desperately trying to keep them both alive and free. The Things We Leave Behind is an emotional book that delivers a shocking bombshell before the end. The disjointed telling of Clem's Story leaves you wanting to hear more, to discover how she landed in Scotland in a state of total collapse too ill to continue. The writer dwells on the perfect day in order to show comparison to how things have become and it works in a way, but it also distracts. We are led to believe the things left behind are the small thing like a pair of gloves that her sister wore on a cold day. However, in reality the things she left behind was something much more poignant that that. All the way through the book I asked, why isn't her sister making more of an impact in the journey? The bombshell answered that question and the book made much more sense when the tragedy was fully revealed. A good book that finished on a hopeful note without making the mistake of trying to be too Happy Ever After.

A

Egglescliffe

I really enjoyed this book, although (or maybe because) it's utterly terrifying in places. The ending was sad but satisfying, and I almost guessed part of it, but didn't manage to, which I'm happy about.

Edward

CGS CAKE Club

It starts off okay and is quite a good read, but it didn't have me hooked. Until the final twist at the end, which was really depressing but made the book amazing. It also explained some confusion I had earlier in the book that I had put down to a mistake. Overall, it was really good and very sad.

Lizzie

CGS CAKE Club

This is a gripping, dystopian novel alternating between Clem's recounts of her escape as well as her therapy sessions in Scotland. It shows the close relationship and bond between Clem and Billie as well as the fragility of society. I would definitely recommend this book.

Rheem

KECHG Shadowers

This book was a really enjoyable read. The dystopian setting really enhanced the plotline, making Clem's bid for freedom seem even more dire. The whole story and the characters were very intricately created, as opposed to superficial and artificial characters with little depth that are commonly found in books. The story was a genuine thriller, and held my attention until the very end. I would definitely recommend this book, and I can certainly see that this book is worthy of making the Carnegie shortlist!

Manas

Colchester Royal Grammar School

Great twist ending, good description of the journey Clem has to go on to get to safety. Had a happy ending which was nice

mog

Pittville School

The Things We Leave Behind is a story about lies. Clem tells us how she fled the London she once loved and the iron rule of an authoritarian, but not all of it is the truth. The book explores how just hanging on can be so hard when everything else is stacked up against you, juxtaposing fantasy to reality - potentially showing how Clem is dealing with the situation. It hits pretty close to home, with a dystopian setting not too unlike our own. And it explores lies, the ones we are told by Clem and the ones Clem has been telling herself, because sometimes the truth can be too harsh and too ugly. I admit the book saddened me, seeming more and more hopeless, until the end. It's realistic, telling you things don't always turn out okay, but they can be a hell of a lot better than they could have been.

Hanzalah

Ermysted’s

This book is set in a dystopian world where London has an authoritarian regime and civil unrest. It's about a girl called Clem and how she is separated from all of her family and friends in an attempt to hide from the police after her stepmother was taken away. This book is set in the present, where the protagonist is speaking to a counsellor recounting her story. I liked the ending of this book, and how things turned out, but I felt that the book had a very slow pace and it was only in the last quarter of the book that I really started to enjoy it more. I would recommend it to fans of dystopian books.

Isabella

Rainbeau Readers

one of my favourites. great story!

max

Desborough Reading & Biscuit Club

I found this book very good it is one of my all time favourites. The reason I found this good was the different perspectives of all of them and then the final perspective of Johnny what he thinks before the end. That's why I thought it was so good.

Sam

Desborough Reading & Biscuit Club

It was a good book that showed how families are affected when things pull them apart. The characters were easy to get attached to, which made me really enjoy the book. The only con of this book is the ending, which there was a twist that I feel as though it was dropped on you without explanation. Overall, I'd give this book an 8 or 9 out of 10 :)

Ria

St Kaths

It is very good from what I read so far. It gives me a Hunger Games vibe and I absolutely love it

Meredith

SHSCC_Readers!

At first I thought that 'The Things we Leave Behind' would be like every other dystopian book. After a few chapters I couldn't put it down. I think it was different as the journey is unlike most you read about, it had so many stages of the journey.

Fliss

PGS Library

it was a very interesting but good book was very confusing at the start but all got together in the end but had a very sad and also happy ending and had a nice point of view so you can see every thing she is feeling all together it is a very good read 5 stars definitely recommend this book also would read again.

ethan

Ermysted’s

In the book there is this girl called Clem who has a birthday, so she decides to have a party with a picnic somewhere for her 16th birthday, because there is a lot happening in her life that is upsetting. She wants to move away to Scotland with her sister to start her new life because she wants to be in a healthy and peaceful environment not a nasty one .She doesn't want to ruin the memories with her family.

Ellie J

VISTA Academy

A very moving and adventurous book, their journey is thrilling and the ending is extremely sad. Clem's emotional journey is like a rollercoaster and this is a book i would reccomend to anyone and everyone.

Adaml

Ermysted’s

The Things We Leave Behind is an utterly evocative book depicting the story of Clem, a refugee from an authoritarian government causing unrest in London. This dystopian novel highlights relevant topics like racism, extremism and xenophobia through simplistic yet emotional prose. Clem, turning 15, is constantly reminded of her traumatic past along her journey across the length and breadth of the country. Furniss maintains a sense of uncertainty and fear throughout the narrative and lets the reader unfurl the beautifully crafted plot. You will almost definitely feel related and empathetic to the raw experiences of the characters and the fragility of memories and family.

Ayaansh

OP No Shelf Control

This is a well written book that keeps the reader entertained but also on edge. The subject matter is very topical in today’s world-unfortunately. However the characters feel alive and relevant and there is hope in humanity. A very good read

Paul

St David’s readers

The Things We Leave Behind – Clare Furniss It is an intriguing book that is very easy to get lost in as it doesn’t have proper chapters. It is told through flashbacks that conveys emotions that are very relatable. Clare Furniss’ writing is very understanding and expresses emotions in a way that would never offend anyone. The use of flashbacks is effective but one of the only flaws in the book is that there is no scale of time for the flashbacks. The ending is absolutely awesome, and I am sad that I can’t read it for the first time again. 10/10

Jake

KSA Book Wolves

For most of this book, I was gripped however it took me until around page 30 to fully understand what was going on. The lack of chapters was slightly annoying as I could never find a stopping point and it kept jumping back and forth between Clem’s story and the things going on in the present with Polly and the italics story with the blood-red flower, which was also slightly confused. Upon finishing the book, I was left puzzled as to why Billie was with Clem the whole time, yet had died from a coma whilst still in London. Overall I give this book a 2.5/5.

Felix C

Ermysted’s

I really liked The Things We Leave Behind as it seemed very relevant and realistic to today's society. Unfortunately, Toby Knight reminded me of someone currently in power, which I think just added to the relevance of the book. At first, I found this book confusing as it jumped from the past to the present to a fairy-tale-like story but as it went on I began to understand why they had layered so many scenes on top of each-other. Despite being a sad story, I liked the ending as it created hope without it being too unrealistic.

Aidan

Ermysted’s

"The Things We Leave Behind" is a really touching piece that looks at the stuff we carry with us in life and the things we decide to leave behind. It’s all about the memories, relationships, and choices that shape who we are. The author paints a picture of how our past can linger in the form of certain objects or people that bring back strong feelings. It makes you think about what’s truly important to you and how those choices can affect your future. There’s a lot of emotion in it, touching on themes like nostalgia and loss. It reminds us that even if we move on from certain things, they still have a way of influencing us. In the end, it encourages us to reflect on our own lives and consider what we cherish and what we might be ready to let go of as we grow.

Al-Aqsa

QKA Shadowers