Since childhood, college valedictorian Mark Jans has measured life in lessons and letter grades. But after graduation, he trades academia for the unknown and escapes to New York City, eager to enroll in the “School of Hard Knocks.” There, he meets Astra—a mysterious, street-smart punk who lives for the moment and hides more than she reveals. Despite their differences, the two are drawn to one another by a shared longing: to be truly seen. But as their connection deepens, they are forced apart by clashing beliefs and personal demons. When Astra returns home to confront a dark secret from her past, Mark must decide whether he can help her—or whether he’s the one who truly needs saving.
From award-winning author Michael Thomas Perone, Is There Life After College? is a poignant, emotionally charged coming-of-age novel that explores identity, mental health, love, and purpose. It asks not only what happens after school ends, but what comes after innocence, connection—and even life itself.
Winner of The 2026 NYC Big Book Award for Distinguished Favorite in the Category of Young Adult Fiction
5-star reviews from Reader Views, August 2026
Mark and Astra are appealing, engaging, funny, smart people, created with a deft touch. Their stories remain individual, but their timelines are tied together, a connection that drives the action. …Is There Life After College? is a poignant, quirky, light and dark, coming-of-age story about finding a path and being true to oneself above all. 5 out of 5 stars.
–Reader Views(Denise Donaldson)
Is There Life After College? is a funny, irreverent, and ultimately surprisingly serious coming-of-age novel about the rude awakening that comes when the carefully structured world of school suddenly disappears. Beneath the jokes, romance, tragedy, and occasionally outrageous plot turns is a compassionate argument for humility. Growing up, Perone suggests, has less to do with finding all the answers than finally understanding why some questions cannot be answered so easily. 5 out of 5 stars.
–Reader Views(Paul Knobloch)
Perone’s coming-of-age novel is an example of how a master storyteller seamlessly blends multiple themes into a cohesive whole. …The author’s realistic dialogue and vivid, descriptive language add to the reader’s enjoyment. This multi-award-winning author is a formidable talent, as this exceptional novel illustrates. …Readers looking for a great read with depth will find it in this thoughtful and entertaining novel. It leaves the reader contemplating its themes and plot long after the book is finished.
–The US Review of Books (“Recommended” review)
Perone’s prose is energetic and frequently witty, using pop-culture references, exaggerated imagery, and quick exchanges to give the narrative a youthful personality. The tonal shifts can sometimes feel abrupt, particularly as the story moves from workplace comedy and romance into increasingly serious territory, but they also reflect the novel’s broad ambitions. At its heart, Is There Life After College? is less interested in presenting adulthood as a straightforward progression than in showing how unexpected relationships can disrupt the lives we imagine for ourselves.
–Publishers Weekly
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Michael Thomas Perone 