Beddor, F. (2006). The Looking Glass Wars. New York, NY: Speak.
Interest level: Grades 5+
Reading Level: 6+
Imagine that the story of Alice in Wonderland was all wrong? What if Charles Dodgson had been entrusted with the true story of Alyss Heart and rather than telling it as it was supposed to be told, twisted it around into the fanciful tale he’s so well known for? This book, the first in a trilogy, is an alternate telling of the classic Alice in Wonderland. In this version, Alyss Heart is a Princess in Wonderland and heir to its throne. Unfortunately, her exiled evil Aunt Redd has returned and after a bloody coup, taken over the throne. Alyss barely manages to escape by jumping into the Pool of Tears and she finds herself in Victorian London. One of her Royal Guards, Hatter Madigan, jumps in after her to save her and is quickly followed by one of Redd’s minions and action begins.
This book is high action and high energy. There are fierce battles, fantastical creatures and plenty of Imagination. Alyss is a believable heroine, facing her lot in life with strength and perseverance. Some of the other characters aren’t well-developed, but both reluctant readers and avid ones alike will likely not notice that as they enjoy this fast paced story. The battle scenes read almost like a movie, which isn’t surprising since Beddor has produced movies in the past. This trilogy is fleshed out with companion books, graphic novels and games giving readers plenty of other ways to experience the story.
Interest level: Grades 5+
Reading Level: 6+
Imagine that the story of Alice in Wonderland was all wrong? What if Charles Dodgson had been entrusted with the true story of Alyss Heart and rather than telling it as it was supposed to be told, twisted it around into the fanciful tale he’s so well known for? This book, the first in a trilogy, is an alternate telling of the classic Alice in Wonderland. In this version, Alyss Heart is a Princess in Wonderland and heir to its throne. Unfortunately, her exiled evil Aunt Redd has returned and after a bloody coup, taken over the throne. Alyss barely manages to escape by jumping into the Pool of Tears and she finds herself in Victorian London. One of her Royal Guards, Hatter Madigan, jumps in after her to save her and is quickly followed by one of Redd’s minions and action begins.
This book is high action and high energy. There are fierce battles, fantastical creatures and plenty of Imagination. Alyss is a believable heroine, facing her lot in life with strength and perseverance. Some of the other characters aren’t well-developed, but both reluctant readers and avid ones alike will likely not notice that as they enjoy this fast paced story. The battle scenes read almost like a movie, which isn’t surprising since Beddor has produced movies in the past. This trilogy is fleshed out with companion books, graphic novels and games giving readers plenty of other ways to experience the story.
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