"The Weight of Silence" is a novel written by Heather Gudenkauf. It tells the story of two young girls, Calli and Petra, who go missing on a summer morning. Calli, who is selectively mute, and Petra, her best friend, are discovered missing by their families, leading to a frantic search effort in their small Iowa town. As the search intensifies and secrets unravel, the novel delves into the lives of the girls' families and the community, exploring themes of family dynamics, secrets, and the lengths people will go to protect those they love. Gudenkauf's writing is known for its emotional depth and suspenseful storytelling, making "The Weight of Silence" a compelling read for fans of mystery and drama.