Rating: 4.5 Stars

The characters in this enchanting narrative each possess distinct personalities, talents, and intricate backstories that contribute to the richness of the tale. While every character holds a unique story waiting to be told, only a select few find the opportunity to share their experiences within this mesmerizing wonderland. Among them, sisters Aya and Afia share a profound and powerful bond that resonates deeply with twins and siblings alike, illustrating the complexities and joys of familial relationships. Afia, in particular, emerges as a remarkable main character—she is strong, brave, curious, and filled with love, yet her flaws and vulnerabilities render her relatable and authentic. This blend of strengths and weaknesses allows readers to see themselves in her, fostering a connection that enhances the overall experience of the story.

In addition to the central characters, the supporting cast—including the enigmatic Queen, her courtly advisors, and the intriguing masked boy whom Afia encounters in the queen's garden—enriches the narrative, transforming it into an imaginative, wondrous, and immersive experience for readers. Each supporting character brings their own flavor to the tale, adding depth and complexity to the world that Afia navigates. The atmosphere is undeniably fantastical, creating an ambiance that makes readers feel as if they have stepped into a wonderland brimming with spirits, magic, and hidden wonders waiting to be discovered.

The writing throughout the book is a masterful blend of descriptive, realistic, whimsical, and emotional prose. This style not only draws readers into the characters' lives but also allows them to forge a connection with the emotions and experiences depicted. As the plot unfolds, it becomes increasingly intriguing and relatable, exploring the universal desire to forge one's own path in life, often in the face of external expectations and pressures. This theme resonates deeply, beautifully narrating a story of family bonds that remain unbreakable despite the challenges faced.

The vibrant illustrations by Mia Araujo serve as a stunning complement to the text, capturing not only the magic and wonder of the story but also its underlying emotions and themes. Inspired by Araujo's love for Lewis Carroll's timeless classic, Alice in Wonderland, the book weaves in elements from this beloved tale while infusing Araujo's unique twist and personal touches. This creative approach results in a distinctive fantasy that delves into the various wonderlands present in children's and middle-grade literature, offering a fresh perspective that feels both familiar and new.

Mia Araujo's Afia in the Land of Wonders stands out as a middle-grade fantasy that pays homage to a cherished children's classic, featuring vibrant and emotionally resonant illustrations that enhance the storytelling experience. The themes of self-identity, the quest for personal fulfillment, and the unbreakable strength and love of sibling relationships—especially the unique bond shared between twins—are woven throughout the narrative. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys novels inspired by classics such as Alice in Wonderland, as it offers beautiful illustrations that bring the story to life, all while exploring central themes of family connection and the journey of self-discovery. This enchanting tale promises to captivate readers of all ages, inviting them to lose themselves in a world where imagination knows no bounds.

Thank you to Netgalley, Scholastic, and Mia Araujo for providing me with an advanced reader's copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Afia in the Land of Wonders is a great re-telling of Alice in Wonderland. I really enjoyed how different this story was and the dark mythology included in it. This book also includes gorgeous illustrations throughout, that will make it greatly appealing to the kiddos.

Thanks to NetGalley, Scholastic, Mia Araujo for the chance to read and review. My opinions are my own

Beautiful and original retelling of Alice in Wonderland set in a fantasy Africa-like universe. Some of the illustrations are available in this ARC, but most are rough sketches. Based on the finished ones, this is going to be a simply GORGEOUS final product.

I have mixed feelings about this book. It started out strong, with a mysterious stranger and tension as we wonder if Afia will choose to leave her home and her sister. I enjoyed the oddities and parallels to Alice in Wonderland--Araujo did an excellent job with her descriptions. I do wish, however, that Afia had more self-awareness or depth to her. It felt like as the story went on, she was just going in circles without really thinking things through, which became increasingly tedious to read. I would not recommend this book to teen or adult readers but, I think elementary aged students would enjoy it.