"Tell Them Goodbye is a powerful novel that follows two teenagers fleeing their family ranch after witnessing a murder tied to the drug trade. Grounded in real events and shaped by a subtle Día de los Muertos influence, the novel captures the fear, grief, and determination that define their journey toward the United States." —NewInBooks.com

Readers' Favorite 5-Star Seal

"E. R. Sanchez's Tell Them Goodbye is a brilliant YA thriller and coming-of-age story. The plot is easy to follow and pulls the reader along without slowing the story down. It also places deep emphasis on events and the characters’ choices in response to their situation, which in turn keeps the story moving. Sino and Martin never come across as one-dimensional or neatly defined characters. They argue, make poor decisions, and react out of fear as often as out of courage. Their bond unfolds naturally, built from what they have been through and the need to survive. Small moments show how much they depend on each other, which makes their characters real as teenage boys facing something far bigger than themselves. If you love stories about displacement and survival, you will find this book sobering and engaging." — David Jaggart, 5-Star Readers' Favorite Review

"The stylish fusion of English and Spanish in the conversations gives Tell Them Goodbye a uniquely natural feel. E.R. Sanchez uses a combination of seemingly innocent observations and implied statements from Sino to show his transition from naive teen to adulthood. The author weaves these elements together at an even pace, ultimately crafting a riveting and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to drama and realistic fiction enthusiasts." — Essien Asian, 5-Star Readers' Favorite Review

"Tell Them Goodbye by E. R. Sanchez is a beautifully moving and emotionally searing literary novel set in the 1970s, tracing a northbound journey shaped by family bonds, labor, and faith. Sanchez skillfully pulls together micro-moments that, even as an immigrant myself, form a picture of the small steps in a long journey: scenes of prayer at roadside shrines, deals struck over goats, and acts of kindness from drivers and hosts who keep the road feeling humane... This book is the whole package. Readers drawn to social underdog stories will love it. Very highly recommended." — Asher Syed, 5-Star Readers' Favorite Review

"Tell Them Goodbye by E. R. Sanchez takes readers on a gripping journey filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep one glued as the events unfold. The pacing is steady, and the vivid descriptions of events and places help one to create a mental picture of what is happening. The work shows how issues like the drug trade affect communities and the dangers faced by those seeking a better life. This thought-provoking work also got me contemplating the nature of human beings, and it made me appreciate that, despite the existence of bad people, good people also exist. The reader will also appreciate the motivating nature of this book, which portrays the courage and resilience of two young men undeterred in finding a better life. I look forward to reading something else by E. R. Sanchez." — Frank Mutuma, 5-Star Readers' Favorite Review

"The contrast between ranch life, small towns, and growing cities gives readers a clear idea of how places can sometimes shape a person's identity and opportunities in life. Themes of family loyalty, violence, and survival run deep through the story, especially in the concept of the “three deaths” and the need to be remembered. Overall, the story offers a serious and humane look at why young people migrate and what they leave behind. Readers who are fascinated by young adult thrillers about leaving home and family will enjoy this intriguing novel." — Richard Prause, 5-Star Readers' Favorite Review