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Wonderfully Weird: 5 'Alice in Wonderland' Retellings Worth the Read


Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" has been a source of inspiration for countless authors, leading to a whimsical world filled with vivid characters and surreal landscapes. If you're a fan of Alice's curious adventures and have a penchant for unique retellings, you're in for a treat. In this blog post, we'll journey through five exceptional "Alice in Wonderland" retellings that offer fresh perspectives, fantastical twists, and imaginative storytelling. Prepare to fall down the rabbit hole once more!


1. "Queen of Hearts" by Colleen Oakes


"Off with her head!"


Colleen Oakes' "Queen of Hearts" is a dark and captivating retelling that explores the origin story of one of Wonderland's most iconic characters—the Queen of Hearts. In this prequel, we follow the journey of Princess Dinah, who is far from the ruthless queen we know. Oakes weaves a tale of intrigue, betrayal, and destiny, offering a fascinating glimpse into the making of a Wonderland villain.


2. "Alice" by Christina Henry


"We're all mad here."


Christina Henry's "Alice" is a gritty and haunting reinterpretation of the classic tale. Set in a dystopian and nightmarish Wonderland, this story follows a very different Alice, who has escaped an asylum with the help of a fellow inmate—the enigmatic Hatcher. As they navigate this twisted realm filled with monstrous creatures, they seek vengeance and redemption. Henry's dark and atmospheric writing transforms Wonderland into a place of horror and suspense.


3. "Heartless" by Marissa Meyer


"Sometimes your heart is the only thing worth listening to."


In "Heartless," Marissa Meyer explores the story of the Queen of Hearts before she became the infamous monarch with a penchant for beheadings. Catherine Pinkerton, a talented baker, dreams of opening a bakery with her best friend. However, fate has other plans, leading her down a path that ultimately transforms her into the notorious Queen of Hearts. Meyer blends whimsy with tragedy in this enchanting retelling that will make you see Wonderland in a new light.


4. "Alice in Zombieland" by Gena Showalter


"Off with their heads... and then destroy their brains!"


If you're in the mood for something entirely different, "Alice in Zombieland" by Gena Showalter is a thrilling mashup of Wonderland and the zombie apocalypse. Follow Alice Bell as she battles not only the undead but also the dark and dangerous creatures of Wonderland. With action-packed scenes, supernatural elements, and a fierce heroine, this retelling is a unique twist on the beloved classic.


5. "Alice I Have Been" by Melanie Benjamin


"Sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast."


Melanie Benjamin takes a different approach in "Alice I Have Been" by delving into the life of the real Alice Liddell, who inspired Lewis Carroll's tales. This historical novel explores the relationship between the young girl and the author and imagines what Alice's life might have been like after her adventures in Wonderland. It's a poignant and beautifully written story that offers a glimpse behind the looking glass.




"Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" continues to be a rich source of inspiration for authors seeking to explore the whimsical and imaginative world that Lewis Carroll created. These five retellings provide fresh perspectives, dark twists, and imaginative storytelling that will delight both fans of the original and those looking for a new take on Wonderland. Dive into these books and experience Wonderland in a whole new way!

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