The Books of Elsewhere books in order

The Books of Elsewhere is a five-book middle grade fantasy series by Jacqueline West about a girl who discovers that the paintings in her old Victorian house are gateways to a magical world.

Reading order

# Title Published Author Buy on Amazon
1 The Shadows 2010 Jacqueline West Buy
2 Spellbound 2011 Jacqueline West Buy
3 The Second Spy 2012 Jacqueline West Buy
4 The Strangers 2013 Jacqueline West Buy
5 Still Life 2014 Jacqueline West Buy

The Books of Elsewhere by Jacqueline West follows Olive Dunwoody, a girl whose family moves into an old house filled with strange, dark paintings. Olive soon discovers that the paintings are more than art: they contain another world, one filled with magic, danger, and creatures that have their own plans for the house and its occupants.

Across five books published from 2010 to 2014, the series grows darker and more complex. The Shadows introduces the premise, Spellbound and The Second Spy raise the stakes, and The Strangers and Still Life bring the story to its conclusion. The series is popular with young readers who enjoy atmospheric fantasy with a touch of creepiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many books are in the The Books of Elsewhere series?

There are five books in the The Books of Elsewhere series, published between 2010 and 2014.

What is the first book in the The Books of Elsewhere series?

The first book in the The Books of Elsewhere series is The Shadows, published in 2010.

What age group is The Books of Elsewhere for?

The Books of Elsewhere is aimed at middle grade readers, roughly ages 8 to 12. The series features a young protagonist and a blend of mystery and fantasy that appeals to readers who enjoy books like Coraline or the Gregor the Overlander series.

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