Reviewed by Jaglvr for TeensReadToo.com
Jude has always tried to be invisible. Ever since her best friend, Stella, left, Jude tries to avoid any confrontation. Then her drama teacher announces that Jude should apply to the prestigious drama school, the Lab, in London. In the meantime, Jude gets noticed at her current school, and mocked by the cool girls. Drama is the only thing Stella feels she is any good at.
Then, out of nowhere, Stella returns. Stella is everything Jude is not. She's outgoing, she's cool, and she is able to stand up to the girls who taunt her. And she catches the eye of the popular boys. Stella immediately encourages Jude to buy some new clothes, to start talking to the boys, and begin partying with the other kids.
But things are not all perfect. Life with her father is strained. Her mother died when Jude was younger. She keeps her other childhood friend, Ed, at arms' length. But Jude manages to snag an audition at the Lab, and Stella and Jude head into London for the day.
At this point, I can't really elaborate more on what happens in the story because I have to admit, I was quite surprised with the plot twist that occurs. I so didn't see it coming! Jude and her father have some words, and Jude makes a startling realization that brings about some changes and understanding of herself.
WONDERLAND is a heavy story, and may not be for everyone. But it's an insightful look at one's own situation and how they can change themselves to be what they are meant to be. Originally released in the United Kingdom in 2009, the reader will definitely notice the British feel of the story. Some of the slang may be foreign, but overall, the story is easy to follow and conveys the strong moral of being true to oneself.
***Note: There are some sexual situations in this novel that may not be appropriate for younger readers.
Jude has always tried to be invisible. Ever since her best friend, Stella, left, Jude tries to avoid any confrontation. Then her drama teacher announces that Jude should apply to the prestigious drama school, the Lab, in London. In the meantime, Jude gets noticed at her current school, and mocked by the cool girls. Drama is the only thing Stella feels she is any good at.
Then, out of nowhere, Stella returns. Stella is everything Jude is not. She's outgoing, she's cool, and she is able to stand up to the girls who taunt her. And she catches the eye of the popular boys. Stella immediately encourages Jude to buy some new clothes, to start talking to the boys, and begin partying with the other kids.
But things are not all perfect. Life with her father is strained. Her mother died when Jude was younger. She keeps her other childhood friend, Ed, at arms' length. But Jude manages to snag an audition at the Lab, and Stella and Jude head into London for the day.
At this point, I can't really elaborate more on what happens in the story because I have to admit, I was quite surprised with the plot twist that occurs. I so didn't see it coming! Jude and her father have some words, and Jude makes a startling realization that brings about some changes and understanding of herself.
WONDERLAND is a heavy story, and may not be for everyone. But it's an insightful look at one's own situation and how they can change themselves to be what they are meant to be. Originally released in the United Kingdom in 2009, the reader will definitely notice the British feel of the story. Some of the slang may be foreign, but overall, the story is easy to follow and conveys the strong moral of being true to oneself.
***Note: There are some sexual situations in this novel that may not be appropriate for younger readers.
