"The Deep End of the Ocean" is a novel by Jacquelyn Mitchard that tells the story of a family's struggle after the disappearance of their three-year-old son, Ben. The narrative explores themes of loss, grief, and the impact of trauma on relationships as the family copes with the void left by Ben's absence. Years later, the family unexpectedly encounters a young man who resembles Ben, leading to a complex emotional journey. The story delves into the challenges of reconciling the past with the present, highlighting the enduring bonds of love and the difficulties of moving forward after tragedy.