"The Gates Ajar" is a novel written by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps, published in 1868. The story explores themes of death, the afterlife, and the nature of God through the eyes of its protagonist, who grapples with the loss of her loved ones. The narrative presents a vision of heaven that is comforting and inclusive, challenging traditional views of the afterlife. The book was significant in its time for addressing women's perspectives on spirituality and grief. It contributed to the broader conversation about Christianity and the role of women in religious discourse, making it an important work in American literature.