Mandy awoke in darkness. For a moment she didn’t remember that Angel was gone, that she would not be coming back, and then the pain hit her like a physical blow. For the first time in her eleven years, Mandy is alone. Through a series of miscommunications, her entire family has left her by herself in their big house on Lake Michigan. But it’s the absence of her twin sister, Angel, that she feels the most. One year ago Angel died, and Mandy’s life has been at a standstill ever since. While the rest of her family has moved on, Mandy clings to the pain of her loss.

At first Mandy is almost relieved to have the time to herself. But quickly the loneliness consumes her – until she stumbles upon two boys, one her age, the other not yet two, who are also on their own. Running away from men who wish to do them harm, the boys turn to Mandy for help. But what can she do for these boys when she can barely take care of herself? If only Angel were here, she would know what to do.

In her final book, Willo Davis Roberts proves once again why she is considered one of the greatest mystery writers for young readers. The One Left Behind is a haunting tale of loss, love, and – ultimately – hope.