Who are the main romantic interests for Elliot in the Borderlands?

Elliot finds himself in a complex love triangle with Serene-Heart-in-the-Chaos-of-Battle, a stoic and formidable elven warrior, and Luke Sunborn, a kind-hearted and traditionally masculine human. His journey explores his evolving feelings for both, challenging conventional expectations of fantasy romance.

How does Elliot's personality clash with the Borderlands culture?

Elliot is highly intelligent, sarcastic, and deeply unconventional, often questioning authority and social norms. His sharp wit and disinterest in traditional martial prowess frequently put him at odds with the Borderlands' warrior culture, which values strength, honor, and adherence to rules above all else.

What role do the Borderlands themselves play in the story?

The Borderlands are a magical realm separate from the human world, constantly under threat from invading forces. It serves as a training ground for young warriors and a place where Elliot's unique perspective and intelligence ultimately prove invaluable in navigating complex political and magical conflicts, despite his lack of physical prowess.

What is the significance of the 'wall' that Elliot sees?

The wall is the literal and metaphorical boundary between the mundane human world and the magical Borderlands. Its visibility to Elliot signifies his inherent connection to magic and his destiny to become involved in the Borderlands' affairs, setting him apart from ordinary humans.

How does Elliot's 'gift' manifest beyond seeing the wall?

Elliot's true gift isn't just seeing magic, but understanding and manipulating it through observation and logic. He develops a unique form of 'magic' that involves seeing the underlying patterns and rules of magical phenomena, allowing him to disarm spells and understand enchantments in ways others cannot.

Are there any subtle clues about Luke's magical heritage or abilities?

While Luke is presented as a 'normal' human, his unusual resilience, innate kindness, and strong connection to the land and its creatures hint at a deeper, perhaps unrecognized, magical affinity. His ability to connect with people and creatures, and his natural leadership, suggest an unspoken magical presence.

What is the true nature of the 'invaders' and their motivations?

The invaders are not simply mindless monsters but a diverse array of creatures driven by various needs and desires, often misunderstood by the Borderlands inhabitants. Elliot's empathy and logical approach help him to uncover their complex motivations, challenging the simplistic 'good vs. evil' narrative prevalent in the Borderlands.

How does Elliot's 'otherness' impact his psychological development?

Elliot's constant feeling of being an outsider, both in the human world and initially in the Borderlands, shapes his sharp wit and observational skills. This 'otherness' also fuels his desire for genuine connection and understanding, driving him to forge his own path and challenge established norms.

What psychological barriers does Serene face in accepting her feelings for Elliot?

Serene, as an elf, is bound by a culture that values duty, tradition, and stoicism, viewing emotions as weaknesses. Her struggle to reconcile her deep affection for Elliot with her warrior identity and cultural expectations creates significant internal conflict, leading to her reserved and sometimes cold demeanor.

How does Luke's constant optimism and kindness serve as a psychological foil to Elliot?

Luke's unwavering optimism and inherent goodness provide a stark contrast to Elliot's cynicism and snark. This dynamic highlights Elliot's own vulnerabilities and hidden desires for warmth and acceptance, while also demonstrating how different psychological approaches can both be effective in the Borderlands.

What is the psychological impact of the Borderlands' emphasis on combat and physical prowess on its young inhabitants?

The constant training and threat of invasion instill a strong sense of duty and discipline, but also create immense pressure and a narrow definition of worth. This can lead to anxiety, self-doubt, and a suppression of other talents, as seen in the struggles of many students to meet these high expectations.

Does the book suggest that magic and science are inherently opposed or can coexist?

The book strongly suggests that magic and science are not opposed but different manifestations of underlying principles. Elliot's ability to logically analyze and understand magic, and even disarm it, implies that magic follows its own rules, much like scientific laws, making them compatible fields of study.

How does Elliot's journey challenge traditional fantasy tropes, particularly regarding the 'chosen one' narrative?

Elliot is a 'chosen one' who actively resists the role, questioning prophecies and preferring intellectual solutions over heroic combat. He redefines heroism by valuing diplomacy, empathy, and strategic thinking over brute force, subverting expectations of a typical fantasy protagonist.

What is the book's broader message about communication and understanding across different cultures?

The book emphasizes that true understanding requires active listening, empathy, and a willingness to question one's own biases. Elliot's success often stems from his ability to bridge communication gaps and find common ground between disparate groups, highlighting the importance of dialogue in resolving conflict.

How does the ending of 'In Other Lands' leave room for debate or further interpretation regarding the characters' futures?

The ending provides a satisfying resolution for Elliot's immediate conflicts and relationships but leaves the long-term future of the Borderlands and the nature of his continued involvement open to interpretation. It suggests ongoing challenges and opportunities for growth, implying that the 'happily ever after' is a continuous journey rather than a static state.

What is the significance of Elliot's relationships with his two best friends, Dale and Shani, from the human world?

Dale and Shani represent Elliot's grounding in the human world and his enduring need for non-magical friendships. Their unwavering support and acceptance of Elliot, even when he's being difficult, provide a crucial emotional anchor and remind him of the normalcy he sometimes craves, contrasting with his Borderlands complexities.

How does the author use humor to explore deeper themes in the story?

The author uses Elliot's sarcastic wit and humorous observations to lighten the tone, but also to subtly critique societal norms, expose character flaws, and highlight absurdities in both the human and Borderlands cultures. This humor allows for a more accessible and engaging exploration of complex themes like prejudice, politics, and personal growth.

Archivist's Choice

In Other Lands

Name: In Other Lands
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.34 (7190 reviews)
ISBN: 9781618731203

Sarah Rees Brennan (2017)

Genre

Fantasy / Young Adult / Romance

Reading Time

800 min

Key Themes

See below

Track Your Reading

A sarcastic teen finds himself at a magical boarding school in a land of elves, harpies, and mermaids, where he navigates sword fighting, first crushes, and the chance to reshape an old conflict.

Synopsis

Thirteen-year-old Elliot Schafer, a snarky, socially awkward human boy, finds the magical Borderlands when he is the only one who can see an invisible wall during a field trip. He enrolls in a military-style boarding school there, which disappoints him since he expected more mermaids and less combat training. Elliot quickly befriends Serene-Heart-in-the-Chaos-of-Battle, an elven warrior, and Luke Sunborn, a kind and popular human. Over the next seven years, Elliot navigates the Borderlands, learning sword fighting and diplomacy, dealing with his unrequited crushes on both Serene and Luke, and questioning the rigid traditions and political structures of this new world. He uses his sharp intellect and unconventional perspective to challenge the status quo, uncover conspiracies, and work to reform the Borderlands' isolationist policies, all while forming a strong bond with Serene and Luke, which eventually leads to a polyamorous relationship and a future where he can make a difference.

Reading time

800 min

Difficulty

Easy

Pacing

Moderate

Mood

Humorous, Witty, Romantic, Thought-provoking, Coming-of-age

✓ Read this if...

You love snarky protagonists, unique world-building, LGBTQ+ romance, and a story about growing up and challenging norms.

✗ Skip this if...

You dislike a protagonist who is often rude and abrasive, or if you prefer a more traditional fantasy narrative.

Plot Summary

A Wall Only Elliot Can See

Thirteen-year-old Elliot Schafer, an intelligent but socially awkward and often abrasive boy, is on a school field trip when he sees a magical wall no one else can perceive. This discovery leads to an invitation to attend a special school in the Borderlands, a magical realm existing with the human world. Elliot is thrilled, imagining a world filled with mermaids and wonder. He accepts the offer, surprising his parents. Upon arrival, he learns the Borderlands school is a military academy training warriors to protect the human world from magical threats, far from his whimsical expectations. He soon meets his future classmates: Serene-Heart-in-the-Chaos-of-Battle, a formidable elf warrior, and Luke Sunborn, a kind and popular human boy.

First Year and Forming Alliances

Elliot's first year at the Borderlands academy is marked by his complete lack of physical skill and social graces, making him an outcast among his peers. He struggles with combat training and physical exercises but excels academically, especially in strategy and magical theory. Despite his initial antagonism and often inappropriate comments, he forms a friendship with Serene and Luke. Serene, initially annoyed by Elliot, comes to respect his intelligence and unique perspective, while Luke's kindness makes him Elliot's first true friend. Their bond is solidified through shared classes, training, and Elliot's persistent, though often clumsy, attempts to understand and connect with them.

The Power of Words and Unconventional Methods

As the years pass, Elliot's academic brilliance and unconventional thinking become assets. While he never truly masters physical combat, his strategic insights and understanding of magical creatures often provide solutions where brute force fails. He convinces Serene and Luke to study with him, expanding their knowledge beyond practical combat. His persuasive arguments and unique interpretations of Borderlands politics and history begin to subtly influence his friends' perspectives, causing them to question established traditions. He also develops a reputation for being annoying yet effective in intellectual debates, often using his sharp wit and logical arguments.

Teenage Years and Complicated Feelings

Elliot, Serene, and Luke enter their teenage years, and their friendship deepens, becoming the central part of their lives at the academy. Elliot realizes he is bisexual and develops strong, complicated feelings for both Serene and Luke. He is attracted to Serene's strength and beauty, and his love for Luke is rooted in the boy's kindness and the comfort of their friendship. This creates an internal struggle for Elliot, as he navigates unrequited love and the fear of jeopardizing his most important relationships. The academy, focused on duty and combat, offers little guidance for such personal matters.

The Threat of the Green Lady

A recurring and increasingly dangerous threat emerges in the form of the Green Lady, a powerful and ancient magical being who seeks to invade the human world. This adversary provides a consistent challenge throughout the students' training, forcing them to confront their limits and develop their skills. Elliot's strategic mind is especially important in understanding the Green Lady's motives and predicting her movements, often providing the insight needed to counter her attacks. Serene's combat prowess and Luke's diplomatic skills are also essential, showing how their trio's strengths complement each other. Their encounters with the Green Lady help them grow and work as a team.

Questioning Traditions and Borderlands Politics

As Elliot matures, he becomes critical of the Borderlands' rigid traditions, prejudices, and political structures. He questions the treatment of various magical creatures, the historical narratives, and the motivations behind certain policies. His questioning, often seen as rude or disrespectful by instructors and elders, is driven by a desire for justice and efficiency. He pushes Serene and Luke to critically examine their own beliefs, slowly opening their eyes to the flaws within their society. This intellectual rebellion sets him apart and often puts him at odds with authority figures.

The Graduation and the Future

After years of training, Elliot, Serene, and Luke graduate. This marks the transition from students to active protectors of the Borderlands. While their individual skills have developed significantly—Serene as a warrior, Luke as a diplomat and healer, and Elliot as a strategist—their bond remains their greatest strength. The graduation ceremony is bittersweet, as it signifies the end of their sheltered academy life and the beginning of more dangerous duties. They are now expected to apply their training in real-world scenarios, continuing their fight against threats like the Green Lady and navigating the complex political landscape of the Borderlands.

A Proposal and a New Dynamic

After graduation, Elliot, understanding his deep feelings for both Serene and Luke, and recognizing the strength of their trio, proposes an unconventional solution. He suggests they form a 'triad'—a committed, loving relationship between the three of them—where they can all be together. This bold proposal is initially met with surprise and some hesitation, as it defies traditional romantic expectations. However, given their strong bond and mutual love and respect, Serene and Luke eventually accept. This decision solidifies their unique partnership, allowing them to navigate their personal and professional lives as a united front.

Changing the Borderlands

With Serene and Luke by his side, Elliot begins to implement the changes he has long advocated for. His strategic genius, combined with Serene's influence as a respected warrior and Luke's diplomatic grace, allows them to challenge and reform many long-standing, often discriminatory, Borderlands policies. They work to improve relations with other magical races, reform the justice system, and introduce more nuanced approaches to conflict resolution. Elliot's unconventional thinking, once an annoyance, becomes a catalyst for progress, slowly transforming the Borderlands into a more just and efficient realm, fulfilling his desire to make a difference in the world.

Confronting the Green Lady, Again

The ongoing threat of the Green Lady ends in a final confrontation. By this point, Elliot's strategic mind has fully understood the Green Lady's motivations and weaknesses, revealing her to be a being driven by loneliness and a twisted desire for connection rather than pure malice. The trio, using their combined strengths—Elliot's strategy, Serene's combat prowess, and Luke's empathy—confront her not just with force, but with understanding. Their approach leads to a resolution that is a complex end to her threat, showing the trio's growth beyond simple military solutions and solidifying their unique impact on the Borderlands.

A Life of Purpose and Love

After their triumphs, Elliot, Serene, and Luke settle into a life together, their triad a strong and loving foundation. They continue their important work within the Borderlands, with Elliot often taking on advisory roles, Serene leading various initiatives, and Luke acting as a bridge between different groups. Their blend of intellect, strength, and compassion ensures that the Borderlands continues to evolve for the better. Their personal relationship flourishes, proving that love and partnership can exist outside of conventional boundaries, and that their combined efforts can make the world a better, safer, and more understanding place for all its inhabitants.

Principal Figures

Elliot Schafer

The Protagonist

Elliot transforms from a lonely, misunderstood boy into a respected leader whose intelligence and unconventional thinking drive significant change in the Borderlands, finding love and acceptance along the way.

Serene-Heart-in-the-Chaos-of-Battle (Serene)

The Supporting Character, Love Interest

Serene learns to broaden her worldview beyond elven traditions, embracing new ideas and finding a deeper form of love and partnership through her relationship with Elliot and Luke.

Luke Sunborn

The Supporting Character, Love Interest

Luke, initially defined by his kindness and popularity, grows into a strong, empathetic leader and diplomat, embracing an unconventional love that solidifies his place as a vital member of the Borderlands' future.

Professor Rian

The Supporting Character, Mentor

Rian evolves from a traditionalist instructor to a mentor who champions unconventional talent, recognizing the value of new perspectives in the Borderlands.

The Green Lady

The Antagonist

The Green Lady's arc shifts from a simple antagonist to a more sympathetic figure whose 'defeat' involves understanding and a complex resolution rather than pure destruction.

Misty

The Supporting Character

Misty's initial disdain for Elliot slowly evolves into a grudging respect, showing the possibility of understanding across different species.

Elliot's Parents

The Mentioned

Their arc remains largely static, serving as a stable, loving backdrop for Elliot's journey.

Themes & Insights

The Power of Intelligence and Unconventional Thinking

Elliot's journey shows how intellect and a willingness to challenge the status quo can be more powerful than traditional strengths. Despite his physical ineptitude and social awkwardness, his strategic mind consistently provides solutions to problems that brute force or conventional wisdom cannot. This is clear in his strategies against the Green Lady, his ability to outwit various magical creatures, and his questioning of Borderlands traditions, which leads to significant reforms. The theme suggests that true strength is not just physical prowess, but the ability to think critically and adapt.

““I am not a fighter. I am a strategist. I am a talker. I am an annoyer. I change things by being myself.””

Found Family and Unconventional Love

A central theme is that family and love are not limited by blood or traditional structures. Elliot, Serene, and Luke form a strong bond that goes beyond typical friendship and romance. Their triad, a loving partnership between all three, challenges societal norms and shows that deep, committed relationships can take many forms. This theme is explored through their loyalty to each other, their mutual support in times of crisis, and their decision to formalize their unique love, proving that true connection is about understanding, acceptance, and shared purpose.

““You two are my people. My family. My everything.””

Prejudice and Social Reform

The Borderlands, despite its magic, has prejudice against various magical creatures and rigid social hierarchies. Elliot, with his outsider's perspective, consistently challenges these biases, advocating for the fair treatment of harpies, mermaids, and other beings. His arguments force Serene and Luke, who were raised within these systems, to re-evaluate their own beliefs. This theme is clear in Elliot's efforts to reform the justice system and improve inter-species relations, showing how one individual's fight against injustice can lead to widespread social change and a more equitable society.

““Just because something has always been done a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the right way.””

Coming of Age and Self-Acceptance

The story follows Elliot's journey from a lonely, misunderstood thirteen-year-old to a confident, respected adult. His time in the Borderlands forces him to confront his weaknesses, embrace his unique strengths, and ultimately accept himself for who he is—a brilliant, annoying, and loving individual. He learns to value his intellect over physical prowess and finds a place where his differences are not just tolerated, but celebrated. This theme is also reflected in Serene and Luke's own growth, as they learn to question their upbringing and embrace a more expansive view of their world and their relationships.

““I wasn’t going to change myself to fit in. I was going to make the world change to fit me.””

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

The Borderlands Wall

A magical barrier separating the human and magical worlds.

The Borderlands Wall serves as the primary gateway and symbol of the division between the mundane human world and the magical Borderlands. It is visible only to those with magical potential, acting as a selective filter for who can enter the magical realm. This device initiates Elliot's journey and represents the threshold between his ordinary life and his extraordinary destiny. It also highlights the secrecy and hidden nature of the magical world, providing a constant reminder of the two distinct realities the characters inhabit and protect.

The Military Academy

The primary setting for Elliot's education and development.

The Borderlands military academy functions as a classic 'school for special children' trope, but with a unique twist. Instead of Hogwarts-style magic, it focuses on combat, strategy, and survival in a dangerous magical world. This setting forces Elliot, a non-physical intellectual, to adapt and find his own unique strengths. It creates the crucible in which the central trio's friendship is forged and tested, providing both structure and challenges that drive their personal and collective growth. The academy is where they learn the skills, both martial and intellectual, necessary to protect both worlds.

Elliot's Analytical Mind

Elliot's exceptional intelligence and logical reasoning.

Elliot's analytical mind is a central plot device, enabling him to solve complex problems, predict enemy movements, and uncover hidden truths where others rely on brute force or tradition. It allows him to see patterns, deduce motives, and formulate strategies that constantly save the day. This device elevates intellect above conventional strength, making Elliot an indispensable asset despite his physical shortcomings. It also serves as the engine for the social reform theme, as his logical arguments dismantle long-held prejudices and inefficient systems within the Borderlands.

The Triad Relationship

A polyamorous, committed relationship between Elliot, Serene, and Luke.

The triad relationship is a significant plot device that challenges traditional romantic tropes and reinforces the theme of unconventional love and found family. It provides a unique emotional core for the story, demonstrating how love can be expansive and inclusive. This device not only defines the personal lives of the three protagonists but also strengthens their professional partnership, allowing them to function as a more cohesive and emotionally supported unit in their work for the Borderlands. It's a progressive element that underscores the book's message of acceptance and breaking norms.

Critical analysis

Notable Quotes

“Elliot, I love you. And I want to marry you. And I want to have little pointy-eared babies with you.”

— Serene's confession to Elliot.

“The world was not fair. But sometimes, Elliot thought, it was kind.”

— Elliot's reflection on the world.

“He didn't want to be good. He wanted to be right. There was a difference.”

— Elliot's internal thought about his motivations.

“You don't get to choose your family. But you do get to choose who you love.”

— A general observation within the narrative.

“Magic was not a solution. It was a tool. And tools could be misused.”

— Elliot's understanding of magic.

“Some people just needed to be told they were loved, even if they didn't believe it.”

— Elliot's thoughts on comforting others.

“He was a terrible person, but he was *their* terrible person.”

— Serene and Luke's acceptance of Elliot.

“Being brave didn't mean you weren't scared. It meant you did it anyway.”

— A lesson learned by Elliot.

“There were worse things than being alone. Being with the wrong people, for example.”

— Elliot's preference for solitude over bad company.

“He wasn't going to save the world. He was just going to make sure the people he cared about didn't die.”

— Elliot's more personal motivations for heroism.

“Sometimes, the most important battles were fought with words, not swords.”

— Elliot's use of wit and debate.

“Love was an inconvenience, a distraction. And yet, he couldn't imagine life without it.”

— Elliot's conflicted feelings about love.

“The past was a story you told yourself. The future was a story you hadn't written yet.”

— A philosophical reflection by Elliot.

“He wasn't good with feelings. He was good with facts. Unfortunately, feelings were often facts too.”

— Elliot's struggle with emotional intelligence.

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Key Questions (FAQ)

Elliot Schafer, a cynical and observant thirteen-year-old, discovers a magical wall invisible to most people during a school field trip. This leads to him being recruited to attend a military academy in the Borderlands, a fantastical realm filled with elves, harpies, and other creatures, much to his initial surprise and eventual, if often grudging, delight.

About the author

Sarah Rees Brennan

Biography coming soon.

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