The Other Side of Nothing

2024 IPPY Awards Gold Winner in Popular Fiction

“A powerful read that packs a big punch. Anastasia Zadeik uses words to immerse us in the depths of despair across generations—and shows us what it takes to come back to the surface. She also masterfully captures the adolescent voice and makes the reader care, so much, about every character. A moving, timely story that highlights the challenges of mental health and the impact on the people who love those struggling.” —Zibby Owens, author of Blank and podcast host of Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books

“Sharply observed, heart-wrenching, and insightful, Anastasia Zadeik’s The Other Side of Nothing will captivate readers from the very first page and hold their attention through a harrowing journey to the edge of despair. An examination of mental illness, a celebration of what it means to be human, and an exploration of what calls us to transcend. This novel is a must-read.” —Adrienne Brodeur, author of Little Monsters and Wild Game

“In this profound story of love and loss, Anastasia Zadeik tackles the complexities of mental health from every angle and perspective, taking readers on an unforgettable journey that explores what we can and cannot control. Moving, insightful, and deeply compassionate, The Other Side of Nothing is a remarkable and important read.” —J. J. Elliott, author of There Are No Rules for This

“Anastasia Zadeik's characters grab the reader from the first page as a young couple embarks on a suspenseful journey in search of beauty, connection, and meaning—heading toward a perilous precipice. The story reveals the complex and misunderstood layers of mental illness, offering insights and nurturing empathy for those who suffer and the people who love them. Recommended reading to enhance understanding of mental illness through a heart-wrenching story.” —Linda Moore author of Attribution

“Riveting, devastating, redemptive. The Other Side of Nothing is both intimate and cosmic—intellectually, physically, and emotionally. I was holding my breath until the final pages.” —Shelley Blanton-Stroud, author of the Jane Benjamin novels

“Mental illness is still something we don’t talk about enough. Anastasia Zadeik tackles it head-on in this moving portrayal of two suicidal young adults searching for meaning in their lives. With sensitivity and compassion, the author explores the effects of the demon of mental illness not just on the patients but also on their loved ones. Heartbreaking yet also hopeful, The Other Side of Nothing takes the reader on an unforgettable journey.” —Jody Hadlock, author of The Lives of Diamond Bessie

“The Other Side of Nothing is a page-turning novel about young love, art, philosophy, motherhood, grief, and healing. Zadeik writes with tremendous empathy and compassion for her characters, exploring the complexities and nuances of mental illness. The characters in these pages are beautifully alive.” —Tammy Greenwood, author of The Still Point, Keeping Lucy, and Two Rivers

"The Other Side of Nothing takes readers on a journey into the complex world of mental illness and its effects of both luminosity and shadow on the fully realized characters who inhabit this novel. Zadeik’s deep knowledge of the intricacies of mental illness and her compassionate portrayal of its ramifications make this an important and timely book.” —Judy Reeves, author of When Your Heart Says Go