Ancrum, K

A profoundly beautiful, strange, and introspective love story, at turns soothing and scalding. Recommended for every collection.Bayerl, Katie. What Comes After. 416p. Penguin/Nancy Paulsen. Apr. 2025. Tr $21.99. ISBN 9780399545283. Gr 9 Up–Waking up dead is shocking enough, but this version of the afterlife—with its forced positivity, kale chips, and yoga—proves to be even more unsettling. All Mari, 16, wants is to make peace with her mother (who is also in purgatory), move on, and reunite with her beloved grandparents. If she could remember how she died that would be great, too, but something sinister is lurking beneath the surface of Paradise Gates. Souls are disappearing, mysterious agencies are scheming, and then there’s Jethro—a presence that she’s not sure how to feel about. Fans of The Good Place will appreciate the novel’s satirical take on the bureaucracy of the afterlife, complete with absurd rules and a system that begs to be challenged. The book explores themes of rebellion, self-discovery, and the struggle to break free from the status quo. While diversity is present, it is not a focal point. The pacing starts off slow, requiring some patience before the intrigue fully unfolds, but once it does, readers will be hooked by the mystery; they’ll enjoy this different take on life and death and Mari’s unconventional experience in the afterlife. VERDICT While this may not be a must-have for all collections, it could be a solid addition to libraries where offbeat, darkly comedic stories like Lance Rubin’s Denton Little’s Deathdate are popular.–Claire Covington

Ancrum inventively harnesses the flourishing popularity of contemporized Greek myths; Graves notably elevates the dysfunctions of father/son relationships.

A poignant exploration of family, identity, and self-discovery, offering late teens a thought-provoking journey as they navigate the complexities of emerging into new adulthood.

A solid reimagining of Peter Pan that will satisfy those looking for a thrill in their retellings.

A haunting and provocative read that will keep teens riveted. A strong choice for most YA shelves.