Early Reader Review: Alice with a Why by Anna James

Source: From the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

Alice with a Why by Anna James 
Publisher:  Flamingo Books
Publication Date:  January 6, 2026

 

Format: Paperback ARC

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

England, 1919. Alyce – with a Y – lives with her grandmother, the original Alice, having lost her father during the Great War. When a mysterious invitation to a tea party hits her square in the face, Alyce realises her grandmother’s strange stories of a place called Wonderland might have some truth to them after all.

But the land Alyce finds herself in feels different from the Wonderland of her grandmother’s stories – for it is trapped in its own war. The Sun King and the Queen of the Moon are fighting over a stolen hour, and soon Alyce is tasked with setting it right. With the help of the Hatter, the Cheshire Cat and a Sailor Fox, Alyce will have to solve Wonderland’s problems and, eventually, find her way back home.

Enter an enchanting adventure through Wonderland. Starring new characters and old favourites, Alice With a Why is both a celebration of Lewis Carroll's beloved original story, and a modern masterpiece.

Review: 

Alice with a Why follows Alyce,  Alice’s granddaughter, who is staying with her for a bit after her father’s passing. While she is there, she receives an invitation to Wonderland.

This was a delightful reimagining of the wonderful world of Wonderland and its familiar characters. We are reunited with the Mad Hatter, the Door mouse, and March Hare as well as Cheshire cat. We are also introduced to some new characters as well, like Captain Fox, Queen Moon, and King Sun. The plot follows Alyce as she is brought to Wonderland to help the residents convince the King and Queen to stop fighting and end their war with each other. 

The story is still full of nonsense at times, which I loved, as it captures the Wonderland vibe. I thought that the characters were creative and fun but probably not as unique as the originals. 

The adventure was beautifully written and very much as charming as its original. That said, I think I wanted more whimsical though and a greater sense of danger… there is no feeling of urgency or peril to the adventure (which some might enjoy).  

Overall, it was a great story, charming and enjoyable that offers a fresh take on a classic.