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The Looking Glass Wars

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2004

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Book Brief

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Frank Beddor

The Looking Glass Wars

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Wonderland • Fantasy World

Publication Year

2004

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

1010L

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Super Short Summary

The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor reimagines Lewis Carroll’s Wonderland, following Alyss Heart’s struggle to reclaim her throne from Redd. After fleeing Wonderland, Alyss lives as Alice Liddell on Earth for 13 years. Upon her return, she must harness her imaginative powers to defeat Redd and restore peace. The novel includes themes of violence and familial loss.

Fantastical

Adventurous

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

4.3

47,142 ratings

70%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Frank Beddor's The Looking Glass Wars reimagines Lewis Carroll's classic with a dark, action-packed twist. Readers appreciate the inventive world-building and dynamic characters but feel its frenetic pace and complex plot may overwhelm. The novel is praised for its creativity yet criticized for straying far from the whimsy of the original.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Looking Glass Wars?

Fans of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Gregory Maguire's Wicked will relish The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor. This imaginative retelling appeals to readers who enjoy dark, twisted takes on classic tales, filled with adventure and fantasy elements. Ideal for YA and fantasy enthusiasts.

4.3

47,142 ratings

70%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Alyss Heart

The protagonist who navigates between her dual identities as Princess Alyss Heart of Wonderland and Alice Liddell in Victorian England. Her journey involves reclaiming her throne and mastering her powerful imagination.

The antagonist who seeks power and revenge, clashing with her sister and niece for control of Wonderland. Her reign is marked by tyranny and the enforcement of Black Imagination.

Alyss's childhood friend and love interest, who is driven by a desire for revenge after the loss of his father. He joins the fight against Redd but struggles with his darker emotions.

A formidable warrior and assassin loyal to Redd, with the ability to take on multiple lives and forms. He pursues Alyss and her allies throughout the narrative.

The head of the Millinery, serving as the personal guard to the queen and a skilled warrior. He dedicates himself to protecting Alyss and finding her after she goes missing.

The royal tutor of the Heart family, known for his intelligence and long, sensitive ears. He aids Alyss in her journey by providing guidance and knowledge.

The leader of the Alyssian army who can split into two separate individuals, General Doppel and General Gänger. He plays a key role in the resistance against Redd.

A member of Wonderland's royal court known for his selfish and opportunistic nature. He uses his status to serve his own interests, often switching allegiances.

Alyss's mother and the queen of Wonderland at the story's outset. Her influence and legacy shape Alyss's path and serve as a guiding force throughout the narrative.

A kindly Oxford professor who listens to Alyss's story during her time in England. He is based on the real-life author Lewis Carroll, providing themes of imagination and storytelling.

The leader of a group of orphaned children in London who becomes a brief friend and teacher to Alyss. He represents lessons in empathy and survival during her time on the streets.

Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Wonderland • Fantasy World

Publication Year

2004

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

1010L

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