After her death, Susie gradually comes to terms with her new existence in the "in-between." She observes her family, classmates, and friends as they navigate their lives without her. Susie's perspective shifts from being an innocent observer to a more mature and understanding soul.
Her change is most evident in the ways she interacts with her loved ones. In the beginning, she struggles to communicate with them and feels isolated from their lives. However, as the story progresses, Susie learns to reach out to her family and friends through dreams, memories, and visions.
Moreover, Susie becomes increasingly aware of the significance of her own life and death. She begins to understand the importance of cherishing every moment and living fully. This newfound wisdom shapes her interactions with others and allows her to find closure and healing.
By the end of the novel, Susie has embraced her role as an observer and a protector. She has come to understand the purpose of her existence in the in-between and has learned to find joy in the connections she makes. Susie's transformation from an innocent girl to a wise and compassionate soul is one of the central themes of the novel and serves as a reminder of the profound changes that life and death can bring.