Alexis Henderson is a speculative fiction writer with a penchant for dark fantasy, witchcraft, and cosmic horror. Her adult books include The Year of the Witching, House of Hunger, and An Academy for Liars. Growing up in one of America's most haunted cities, Savannah, Georgia, instilled in her a life-long love of ghost stories. When she doesn't have her nose buried in a book, you can find her painting or watching horror movies with her feline familiar. When I Was Death is her first novel for young adults.

"Henderson's YA debut is a gripping, horror-filled read that examines grief and the aftermath of loss. . . A hauntingly raw look at life, death, and grief." --Kirkus Reviews

"This introspective speculative novel is an atmospheric and cathartic depiction of grief and its lasting impact." --Booklist

"A searing portrayal of girlhood, at once sparkling and violently dark. When I Was Death is thrilling and wholly original." --Gold Moldavsky, New York Times bestselling author of The Mary Shelley Club

"The emotional stakes are high . . . [A] reflective and intimate look into grief and death." --School Library Journal

Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers

Pub date: 2026-03-03

Length: 288 pages