The Otherwoods

The Otherwoods by Justine Pucella Winans, published by Bloomsbury USA on September 12, 2023, is a 288-page work in English that explores the intersection of horror and fantasy. The story follows River Rydell, who possesses the unique ability to see monsters and access a frightening spirit world known as The Otherwoods. Despite being labeled a ‘chosen one,’ River feels more like an outcast, choosing to ignore the terrifying visions that haunt them until their friend Avery is kidnapped by monsters, forcing River to confront their fears.
Readers will find a narrative that delves into themes of friendship, social challenges, and the struggle against inner demons. As River embarks on a reluctant hero’s journey, they are accompanied by their cat and a wayward teen spirit, navigating a world that is both familiar and nightmarish. The Otherwoods presents a blend of juvenile fiction with elements of horror and magic, appealing to those interested in stories that tackle complex social themes while featuring LGBTQ representation.
Official synopsis Publisher
A Stonewall Honor Winner
Indie Next Pick
PW Best Book of the Year
Booklist Editor’s Pick
The Otherwoods is calling. And it won’t be ignored.
Some would call River Rydell a ‘chosen one’: born with the ability to see monsters and travel to a terrifying spirit world called The Otherwoods, they have all the makings of a hero. But River just calls themself unlucky. After all, it’s not like anyone actually believes River can see these things-or that anyone even believes monsters exist in the first place. So the way River sees it, it’s better to keep their head down and ignore anything Otherwoods related.
But The Otherwoods won’t be ignored any longer.
When River’s only friend (and crush) Avery is kidnapped and dragged into The Otherwoods by monsters, River has no choice but to confront the world they’ve seen only in their nightmares-but reality turns out be more horrifying than they could have ever imagined. With only their cat for protection and a wayward teen spirit as their guide, River must face the monsters of The Otherwoods and their own fears to save Avery and become the hero they were (unfortunately) destined to be.
Justine Pucella Winans will have you cowering and cackling as you follow River’s reluctant hero’s journey, perfect for fans of Doll Bones, Ghost Squad, and Too Bright to See.
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