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Elsewhere

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2005

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Book Brief

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Gabrielle Zevin

Elsewhere

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2005
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Elsewhere • Afterlife

Theme
Publication Year

2005

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

720L

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Super Short Summary

In Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin, after 15-year-old Elizabeth Hall dies in a car accident, she awakens aboard the SS Nile and soon finds herself in a place called Elsewhere, where people age backwards until they become infants and return to Earth. Struggling to adjust to her new reality and the concept of never growing older, Liz eventually finds purpose, forms connections, and makes peace with her new existence. The book discusses death and the grieving process.

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Mysterious

Emotional

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

67,215 ratings

69%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin is widely praised for its imaginative and heartwarming take on the afterlife, resonating emotionally with readers through its unique premise and well-drawn characters. Critics note, however, that the pacing can be uneven at times and some plot elements feel underdeveloped. Overall, it's a compelling read that explores themes of love, loss, and healing.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Elsewhere?

Fans of poignant, imaginative tales like The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold or The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom will find Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin captivating. This novel appeals to readers who enjoy exploring themes of the afterlife, self-discovery, and emotional journeys in a unique, heartfelt narrative.

4.1

67,215 ratings

69%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Elizabeth (“Liz,” “Lizzie”) Marie Hall

The protagonist, a young high school sophomore with a love for animals and a knack for math and science who navigates her new surroundings after dying in a hit-and-run accident.

Liz’s grandmother who passed away from breast cancer and becomes integral to Liz’s experience in the afterlife, known for her love of flowers and work as a seamstress.

A detective in the Elsewhere Bureau of Supernatural Crime and Contact who develops a significant connection with Liz after his past as a firefighter.

A teenage girl befriended by Liz after her own untimely death; she adapts quickly to Elsewhere and works as a television announcer.

A former British rock musician who befriends Liz and eventually finds happiness in the afterlife after dealing with past celebrity and addiction struggles.

A loyal and affectionate dog who becomes Liz's companion in Elsewhere after being hit by a car on Earth.

Liz’s acclimation counselor in Elsewhere, who maintains an optimistic and cheerful disposition despite personal losses.

Owen's childhood sweetheart and wife with whom shared a profound connection that influences her relationship dynamics in Elsewhere.

Liz’s younger brother who remains hopeful of communicating with her after her passing.

The taxi driver involved in the accident that led to Liz's death, who later becomes a teacher and struggles with guilt.

A golden retriever who bonds with Liz and becomes intertwined with Owen's journey in Elsewhere.

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Elsewhere • Afterlife

Theme
Publication Year

2005

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

720L

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