Book cover of When the Whales Leave

Book description

Nau cannot remember a time when she was not one with the world around her: with the fast breeze, the green grass, the high clouds, and the endless blue sky above the Shingled Spit. But her greatest joy is to visit the sea, where whales gather every morning to gaily…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked When the Whales Leave as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I always thought that whales were partly human. When the Whales Leave confirmed my suspicion.

Inspired by the foundational tale of the Chukchi People of far-eastern Siberia, the story is a deep reflection on the interconnectedness between mankind and the natural world and on the forces that disrupted the equilibrium. In Yuri Ritkheu’s universe, whales used to come back near shore every year, spouting joy, wisdom, and love on their surroundings. Then they became silent. And I am left thinking about what we owe to these monarchs of the sea and may be about to forget forever.  

If you love When the Whales Leave...

Book cover of These Blue Mountains

These Blue Mountains by Sarah Loudin Thomas,

A moving story of love, betrayal, and the enduring power of hope in the face of darkness.

German pianist Hedda Schlagel's world collapsed when her fiancé, Fritz, vanished after being sent to an enemy alien camp in the United States during the Great War. Fifteen years later, in 1932, Hedda…

Want books like When the Whales Leave?

Our community of 13,000+ authors has personally recommended 83 books like When the Whales Leave.

Browse books like When the Whales Leave

Book cover of Fathoms: The World in the Whale
Book cover of Whole Whale
Book cover of Watching Giants: The Secret Lives of Whales

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,395

readers submitted
so far, will you?

📚 If you like When the Whales Leave, you might also like...

Lethal Legacy by H.R. Kemp,

Book cover of Lethal Legacy

Buried Secrets. A web of deceit, betrayal, and danger. Can she survive her fight for justice and truth? Laura thought she knew everything about her late husband before he died. Now, her life and the lives of those she loves are in danger. As Laura delves into his previous role…

The Everlasting Life of Charlie Wall by Paul Wilborn,

Book cover of The Everlasting Life of Charlie Wall

It’s 1985, and Ronald Armstrong, known in the magic mushroom trade as “Trip,” takes a “sober” job as a driver for a retired Tampa mobster. His boss, Charlie Wall, has survived four attempts on his life, the last one in 1955. When Charlie falls into depression, Trip rebuilds his boss’…

5 book lists we think you will like!