The Whatever After Series in Order

About the Whatever After series

Series Premise

The story centers on Abby and her younger brother Jonah, ordinary kids whose lives take a magical turn when they discover a hidden mirror in their basement. This mirror acts as a portal into the world of fairy tales, transporting them into well-known stories at critical moments.

The core premise revolves around what happens when Abby and Jonah accidentally disrupt these tales—altering key events and throwing the narratives off course. Once inside, they must navigate unfamiliar settings, interact with iconic characters, and attempt to restore the original storyline… though their efforts often lead to unexpected and humorous outcomes.

Rather than simply retelling fairy tales, the series plays with them. It explores the idea that stories are flexible and that even small changes can have ripple effects. Abby’s modern perspective frequently clashes with traditional fairy tale logic, creating both comedic situations and opportunities for deeper reflection.

Main Characters

Abby

Abby is the primary narrator and driving force of the series. Practical, opinionated, and often skeptical of fairy tale logic, she brings a contemporary voice to the story. She frequently questions why things happen the way they do and tries to “fix” situations based on her own understanding. Her character arc involves learning that not every problem has a straightforward solution and that her perspective, while valuable, is not the only one. Over time, she becomes more adaptable and open-minded.



Jonah

Jonah, Abby’s younger brother, is enthusiastic, curious, and more willing to embrace the magic of their adventures. He often approaches situations with a sense of wonder and creativity, balancing Abby’s more cautious and analytical nature. Their dynamic is central to the series—while they sometimes argue or disagree, they ultimately rely on each other and grow stronger as a team.



Supporting & Recurring Characters

* Fairy tale figures – Well-known characters from classic stories appear throughout the series, often with personalities or circumstances that differ from their traditional portrayals.

* Parents and real-world connections – Abby and Jonah’s family provides a grounding presence, contrasting with the unpredictability of their magical experiences.

* Recurring magical elements – The mirror and the rules (or lack thereof) governing its behavior create continuity and mystery across the series.

Setting

The series alternates between the real world—primarily the siblings’ home and everyday environment—and a variety of fairy tale settings accessed through the mirror. These magical worlds include castles, forests, villages, and other classic storybook locations, each shaped by the tale they belong to.



What makes the setting particularly engaging is the contrast between Abby’s modern sensibilities and the traditional environments she enters. Everyday logic often doesn’t apply, leading to humorous misunderstandings and inventive solutions.



The mirror itself serves as a central and consistent element, acting as both a gateway and a symbol of the connection between reality and imagination.

Tone & Themes

The tone is light, humorous, and energetic, with a strong emphasis on fun and accessibility. Abby’s narration is witty and self-aware, often poking fun at fairy tale conventions while still embracing their charm.

Key themes include:
* Reimagining tradition – Classic fairy tales are explored through a modern perspective, questioning their assumptions and outcomes.
* Responsibility and consequences – Abby and Jonah must deal with the effects of their actions, even when those actions are well-intentioned.
* Sibling relationships – The bond between Abby and Jonah is central, highlighting both conflict and affection.
* Courage and problem-solving – The protagonists learn to think creatively and act bravely in unfamiliar situations.
* Empowerment and choice – Characters often challenge predetermined roles, emphasizing the importance of agency.

The Whatever After series is a delightful celebration of imagination, creativity, and the enduring appeal of storytelling. Sarah Mlynowski crafts a world where familiar tales are turned upside down, inviting readers to reconsider what they think they know about happily-ever-afters.

What makes the series especially memorable is its blend of humor and heart. Beneath the playful premise lies a thoughtful exploration of choices, consequences, and the idea that stories—like people—can change and grow.

In the end, the series leaves readers with a sense of possibility. It suggests that even the most well-known narratives can be reshaped, and that sometimes, the best endings are the ones we create ourselves.