The Otherwoods

(Hardback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

The Otherwoods is calling. And it wont 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, its not like anyone actually believes River can see these thingsor that anyone even believes monsters exist in the first place. So the way River sees it, its better to keep their head down and ignore anything Otherwoods related. But The Otherwoods wont be ignored any longer. When Rivers only friend (and crush) Avery is kidnapped and dragged into The Otherwoods by monsters, River has no choice but to confront the world theyve seen only in their nightmaresbut 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.

Reviews

"[An] emotionally complex portal fantasy. . . . Balancing gruesome creature encounters with an empowering meditation on bravery, this middle grade debut offers up a panoply of nightmarish ghouls and harrowing perils, but the real appeal comes from tender interpersonal ties and themes of self-discovery." --Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Spooky, funny, and queer-what's not to love" --Kirkus Reviews

Author Bio

Justine Pucella Winans is a queer and nonbinary writer who resides in Los Angeles with their husband and orange tabby cat. They graduated with a B.F.A in Acting from Chapman University and now work at a talent agency. Originally from Cleveland, they still say "pop" and have love for the city, just not the cold. When not writing, they try their best at Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, read an alarming amount of manga, and try to make pasta even a fourth as good as their nonna's. Connect with them on Twitter and Instagram @JustinePWinans and www.justinepucellawinans.com.