Kids - What to Read

Do you love a good book? Our Children’s Librarians do! And we’re excited to share some great recommendations with you. This page gets updated regularly with reviews of the latest books we’ve been reading.

Alice With a Why: Return to Wonderland

By Anna James

I loved this book so much that I read it twice, and was so moved that I cried at the end (both times!). If you only have time to read one recommended book this year, then make it this one!

In England in 1919, Alyce (the one with a ‘Y’), is the granddaughter of Alice, the original character who you may know from Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Alyce’s father (the older Alice’s son) died during the Great War, and both Alices are quietly processing their grief. One day, a mysterious invitation to a tea party hits Alyce in the face, and she literally plunges into Wonderland, a strange place that she has heard about through her grandmother’s stories.

The writing in this book is impeccable and fits in seamlessly with Lewis Carroll’s original book. Fans of Wonderland will not be disappointed. Alyce is just as much an admirable hero as the original Alice, and some familiar characters make an appearance. This book is clever, very funny and very moving, sensitively exploring the theme of grief and the futile nature of war while keeping with the dazzling whimsy of Wonderland.

I recommend this book for ages 8+ or any child who is a confident reader. I also recommend it for teenagers and adults. It is beautifully written and feels like a modern classic. Borrow or request a copy here!