FICTION

The Afterwards

by A.F. HARROLD
illus. by Emily Gravett. 208p. Bloomsbury. Mar. 2019. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9781547600441.
COPY ISBN
Gr 5–8—September, Ember for short, hasn't always had it easy. She lost her mother at a young age and is adjusting to her father having a new significant other. Ember's close friendship with Happiness "Ness" Browne helps bring light to a world that can sometimes be dark. Yet after a tragic and unexpected accident, Ness passes away, leaving Ember in a world that is just a little bit darker. Suddenly, Ember finds herself in the Afterworld, where recently deceased people reside and she decides to find her friend and bring her back to the real world. A wise talking cat brings her the guidance she needs along the way. The characters are lovable, and the artwork is intriguing. The book effectively tackles the sensitive issues of untimely death and loss in an artful manner.
VERDICT An unusual, lyrical story perfect for fans of fantasy and those who embraced Harrold and Gravett's previous collaboration, The Imaginary. Due to the heaviness of the subject matter, this is ideal for mature late elementary and middle school students.
Reviewed by Margaret A. Robbins, University of Georgia, Athens , Feb 01, 2019

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