Emma Buchanan

Starting middle school was a hard transition for me. Then in the second week of school, I fractured my wrist. I could not believe it! What was I going to do now? Then I read your book Elsewhere.

I found that when something unfortunate happens, you go through a series of steps just like Liz did when she died. First you wondered why it happened? Then you start to accept that you need to deal with what has happened and it cannot be changed. Finally, you accept it and make the most of what has happened. It is like turning lemons into lemonade.

I've also always been frightened of death. I believed that it was the absolute worst thing that could ever happen to me. Reading about how Liz handles her own death made me realize things aren't always as bad as they seem.

Your book really opened my eyes. It has made me feel more comfortable with my new surroundings at middle school. I dealt with my fractured wrist and now it is healed. I've learned that I should always try to find a bright side in a situation. Liz's experiences have really made me think twice about my problems.

After reading Elsewhere I wasn't so scared of the what "ifs." What if someone breaks into our house? What if I get hurt? What if I die? I do not worry about things like that anymore. Your book has reassured me that everything is going to be all right. It comforted me like a warm fire would on a dark, dark night.

I now have a new perspective on death, on life. Elsewhere made me realize that life is a precious thing and that you should enjoy it while it lasts especially the little things. Thank you for your comforting words.

Emma Buchanan