"River's very human struggles with facing fears, learning to trust in allies, and being truthful about themselves will resonate with many tweens, even the non-magical kind. Mr. Fluffy Pancakes, River's heroic sidekick, leaps off the page with humorous body language and expressions that speak louder than words." -- School Library Journal, starred review "Winans' nightmarish monster realm holds horrors and revelations . River's sarcasm injects welcome humor into the narrative, which is as much about their personal journey toward self-confidence and silencing bullies as it is about surviving literal monsters. This reluctant hero will mean the world to many readers and be beloved by all." -- Booklist, starred review "[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 "An excitingly suspenseful portal horror led by a cleverly humorous, adorably queer, and intrepid nonbinary tween. The Otherwoods is creepy fun with a queer heart, and a cunning and determined protagonist whose growing self-confidence is a joy to experience." -- Shelf Awareness, starred review "Spooky, funny, and queer--what's not to love?" -- Kirkus Reviews.