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Knights of Wonderland #1
Hatter
There’s nothing wrong with a touch of madness. – Cheshire Cat
Someday Hatta will save the kingdom. In his mind, at least. But his talents of uncharacteristic kindness and a passion for colors hardly qualify him for such a destiny. In a kingdom that doesn’t need saving, a young man ignorant of social norms is the unlikeliest of heroes.
Along the way, the Cheshire Cat, Queen of Hearts, White Queen, and other familiar characters emerge to fill their eminent roles as well.
Witness literature’s most lovable lunatic’s tangled ascent into madness.
Someday Hatta will save the kingdom. In his mind, at least. But his talents of uncharacteristic kindness and a passion for colors hardly qualify him for such a destiny. In a kingdom that doesn’t need saving, a young man ignorant of social norms is the unlikeliest of heroes.
Along the way, the Cheshire Cat, Queen of Hearts, White Queen, and other familiar characters emerge to fill their eminent roles as well.
Witness literature’s most lovable lunatic’s tangled ascent into madness.
201 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2011
About the author
Daniel Coleman
10 books129 followersDaniel Coleman spends his time back and forth between two worlds - the fantastic world of Writing where happy endings are common, and the very real- life world of Firefighting where the outcomes are as varied as the emergencies.
A small farming town in northern Utah is his home, where he resides with his wife, 3 kids and an ever-changing menagerie.
Daniel is the co-host of the CREATE OR DIEpodcast, a weekly podcast for creative-minded individuals seeking a career in The Arts.
A small farming town in northern Utah is his home, where he resides with his wife, 3 kids and an ever-changing menagerie.
Daniel is the co-host of the CREATE OR DIEpodcast, a weekly podcast for creative-minded individuals seeking a career in The Arts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 19, 2012
8.8.2012
Decided to re-review this book. Just because it happens to be incredibly awesome.
The book basically goes back between two boss characters, Chism, and the inimitably childlike Hatta. Because of this book, Hatta is now my favourite character in all of literature. Yeah, that's right. He beats Peeta Mellark and Dante Alexander.
This amazing book describes Hatta's ascent to madness, how he became the Mad Hatter. He loves colours, he loves clothes, he loves his hats.
The book also portrays how Underland fell apart, how the kingdoms split between the Red Queen and the White Queen.
I'm not gonna say anymore. You're all gonna have to read it to find out the rest. ^.^
8.12.2012
Just kidding. I'll say this--This book isn't the bomb just because I have a signed copy. Or because the author is my neighbour/new boss. This book is completely awesome because it explains Hatta's and Chism's struggles in a new light. Chism is a new character, but everyone knows the Mad Hatter. I thought it was clever and sweet to add a brother for him.
Decided to re-review this book. Just because it happens to be incredibly awesome.
The book basically goes back between two boss characters, Chism, and the inimitably childlike Hatta. Because of this book, Hatta is now my favourite character in all of literature. Yeah, that's right. He beats Peeta Mellark and Dante Alexander.
This amazing book describes Hatta's ascent to madness, how he became the Mad Hatter. He loves colours, he loves clothes, he loves his hats.
The book also portrays how Underland fell apart, how the kingdoms split between the Red Queen and the White Queen.
I'm not gonna say anymore. You're all gonna have to read it to find out the rest. ^.^
8.12.2012
Just kidding. I'll say this--This book isn't the bomb just because I have a signed copy. Or because the author is my neighbour/new boss. This book is completely awesome because it explains Hatta's and Chism's struggles in a new light. Chism is a new character, but everyone knows the Mad Hatter. I thought it was clever and sweet to add a brother for him.
June 21, 2011
This is a companion novel to Daniel Coleman's other story JABBERWOCKY. When I think about HATTER I am torn. There are times I prefer JABBERWOCKY and the unique take on the story, and other times I prefer HATTER and reading about well known characters in a new light.
As the name suggests, HATTER is a origin story of the Mad Hatter. The two characters of the story are complete opposites, and yet I felt a bond with both of them in some way. Hatta is the loveable, eccentric friend that you don't always understand what he is doing but you know that his heart is in the right place and he wouldn't hurt a fly. Chism on the other hand is the brash young man who you know will do the right thing, but instead of being discreet and thinking through the consequences does the first thing that comes to mind, which usually involves force of some kind.
The writing is as clean as always and though I had a vague idea of where the story was going, there were still plenty of surprises along the way. HATTER is another great book for young adults to read if they want a taste of a fantastical realm with real depth and imagery. Daniel Coleman paints a picture of human nature within each character that is spot on.
As the name suggests, HATTER is a origin story of the Mad Hatter. The two characters of the story are complete opposites, and yet I felt a bond with both of them in some way. Hatta is the loveable, eccentric friend that you don't always understand what he is doing but you know that his heart is in the right place and he wouldn't hurt a fly. Chism on the other hand is the brash young man who you know will do the right thing, but instead of being discreet and thinking through the consequences does the first thing that comes to mind, which usually involves force of some kind.
The writing is as clean as always and though I had a vague idea of where the story was going, there were still plenty of surprises along the way. HATTER is another great book for young adults to read if they want a taste of a fantastical realm with real depth and imagery. Daniel Coleman paints a picture of human nature within each character that is spot on.
November 13, 2018
"Insanity," said Hatta, still mesmerized by his royal purple hair. "That always seemed the strangest word because it actually means out of sanity. Shouldn't someone who's in sanity be very sane? In means out. Curious."
"And they think we're the mad ones," laughed the smiling Cheshire Cat.
This was an entertaining read but one I only liked and didn't love. I am a huge fan of Alice in Wonderland re-tellings. It's a story that with so many different ideas to take from, it's easy to find a new story in the same old one. And, at first, I loved Hatta and his odd ways. I found Chism way too angry and off-the-cuff violent but I didn't completely dislike him. But the story bogged down somewhere in the middle. It's a short read but it still felt full of small details I didn't need and the conversations felt....blocky. I don't know how else to describe it.
But I did enjoy being in this world and following these two as their paths led them to their decisions and ultimate outcome. I don't know if I'll read more in the series, but I am glad I finally got to this one!
"And they think we're the mad ones," laughed the smiling Cheshire Cat.
This was an entertaining read but one I only liked and didn't love. I am a huge fan of Alice in Wonderland re-tellings. It's a story that with so many different ideas to take from, it's easy to find a new story in the same old one. And, at first, I loved Hatta and his odd ways. I found Chism way too angry and off-the-cuff violent but I didn't completely dislike him. But the story bogged down somewhere in the middle. It's a short read but it still felt full of small details I didn't need and the conversations felt....blocky. I don't know how else to describe it.
But I did enjoy being in this world and following these two as their paths led them to their decisions and ultimate outcome. I don't know if I'll read more in the series, but I am glad I finally got to this one!
August 19, 2011
When I first picked up this book, I was very vocal to those around me that I had never been a fan of the "Alice World". I think my exact words were, "It's creepy and I don't want anything to do with it." But I was willing to give this a try. I am SOOOOOO glad that I did. It is so well written. Fascinating characters? Check. Adrenaline pumping action? Check. Laugh out loud humor? Check. Broken hearts and happily ever afters? Check and check! Hatter is a follow-up novel to Jabberwocky, Coleman's first novel, but it isn't a sequel. I actually read this before I read Jabberwocky and although there are references to characters and events in Jabberwocky, it was never confusing. It was fun to read Jabberwocky after Hatter and recognize minor character Chism, knowing what his future holds! (And if Mr. Coleman wanted to write book number 3 in the Wonderland series about Chism, I would be first in line!) This book is appropriate for all ages and I highly recommend it.
January 7, 2015
“Even though they seem opposing, they’re actually complements.”
The book Hatter by Daniel Coleman is focused on two boys named Hatta and Chism. Hatta is a talented artisan that travels, and has a passive, colorful, slightly mad personality. while Chism is a hot-tempered Elite soldier, who deeply believes in justice no matter the means of obtaining it. The story proceeds to talk about how Hatta and Chism fullfil their destinies and save their Alice-in-Wonderland-like world named Maravilla from the hands of Lady Cuora, who is better known as the Queen of Hearts, while making new friends, running from soldiers, facing their pasts, and going a little insane.
The author, Daniel Coleman wrote the book so that it went from Chism’s and Hatta’s point of view, which, while looking back, gave the book an unique feel. This is because Chism’s point of view was serious, violent, and mature and Hatta’s was energetic, happy, and childlike, and combining those different views helped put the situations to perspective. It easier to connect with the plot and lose yourself in the story. Looking into their point of views also allows you to connect with the characters because you feel what they’re feeling, you see what they’re going through.
The language and terminology of the book is also unlike most books I have read before, and by Coleman using different speech patterns and nonsensical terms it really made it feel as though you were being sucked into a magical world. Daniel Coleman wrote completely ridiculous things, but would write them in a way that would make you question reality, your sanity, and make you understand his logic behind it all, such as “Insanity, that always seemed to be the strangest word because it actually means out of sanity. Should someone who is in sanity be very sane? In means out. Curious.” When I finished Hatta, I looked at everything differently, if insane things can make senses with a little logic, then what’s the sanity in sane things?
At first I thought the book was kind of slow in a few parts, when it was building up the plot, but then it starts to get deeper, and starts to be more emotionally involving, and it connects the reader to the characters in a personal way making you want to find out what happens next. I also enjoyed how the author didn't make the book completely revolve around a love interest and romance, and throughout the entire book there was roughly one chapter that brought it up to deepen the plot, it didn't stick out from the flow of the book. Overall I found Hatter to be a very elaborate, well-written book, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants a book that will take you on a colorful journey.
The book Hatter by Daniel Coleman is focused on two boys named Hatta and Chism. Hatta is a talented artisan that travels, and has a passive, colorful, slightly mad personality. while Chism is a hot-tempered Elite soldier, who deeply believes in justice no matter the means of obtaining it. The story proceeds to talk about how Hatta and Chism fullfil their destinies and save their Alice-in-Wonderland-like world named Maravilla from the hands of Lady Cuora, who is better known as the Queen of Hearts, while making new friends, running from soldiers, facing their pasts, and going a little insane.
The author, Daniel Coleman wrote the book so that it went from Chism’s and Hatta’s point of view, which, while looking back, gave the book an unique feel. This is because Chism’s point of view was serious, violent, and mature and Hatta’s was energetic, happy, and childlike, and combining those different views helped put the situations to perspective. It easier to connect with the plot and lose yourself in the story. Looking into their point of views also allows you to connect with the characters because you feel what they’re feeling, you see what they’re going through.
The language and terminology of the book is also unlike most books I have read before, and by Coleman using different speech patterns and nonsensical terms it really made it feel as though you were being sucked into a magical world. Daniel Coleman wrote completely ridiculous things, but would write them in a way that would make you question reality, your sanity, and make you understand his logic behind it all, such as “Insanity, that always seemed to be the strangest word because it actually means out of sanity. Should someone who is in sanity be very sane? In means out. Curious.” When I finished Hatta, I looked at everything differently, if insane things can make senses with a little logic, then what’s the sanity in sane things?
At first I thought the book was kind of slow in a few parts, when it was building up the plot, but then it starts to get deeper, and starts to be more emotionally involving, and it connects the reader to the characters in a personal way making you want to find out what happens next. I also enjoyed how the author didn't make the book completely revolve around a love interest and romance, and throughout the entire book there was roughly one chapter that brought it up to deepen the plot, it didn't stick out from the flow of the book. Overall I found Hatter to be a very elaborate, well-written book, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants a book that will take you on a colorful journey.
July 6, 2011
I really enjoyed Coleman's second book. While Hatter is still based in Wonderland the story is quite different from Jabberwocky. Jabberwocky was a fairly straight forward "slay the beast" adventure story. Hatter is a more complex story about two characters Hatta and Chism and how their lives intertwine. It's also about twice as long as Jabberwocky.
Chism is an obsessive compulsive character that has channeled his behavior into becoming the perfect soldier. He was in the elite training group of Tjaden in Jabberwocky. While only 15 he has mastered many weapons but can't quite manage his compulsions. Chism tries to have order in everything, even if he has to force order with his sword, which has its own cool name. (Every good sword should)
Hatta is the complete opposite and yet very much the same, he also wants order, but his idea of order is quite different. He would rather suffer and sacrifice than to see someone upset, hungry, offended or hurt. The idea of violence literally makes Hatta sick. His life follows a strange path of riddles and whimsy as he tries to help others from getting hurt.
Together they make a very odd sort of heroes but they're actions help change Wonderland to a place that is perfect for Alice's visit in the classic tale. After reading the book I went and rewatched Tim Burton's "Alice in Wonderland" and Hatter makes all of those characters' lives richer and the movie even more enjoyable.
I highly recommend this book. The language and action is appropriate for any member of the family, and should be enjoyable for all.
Chism is an obsessive compulsive character that has channeled his behavior into becoming the perfect soldier. He was in the elite training group of Tjaden in Jabberwocky. While only 15 he has mastered many weapons but can't quite manage his compulsions. Chism tries to have order in everything, even if he has to force order with his sword, which has its own cool name. (Every good sword should)
Hatta is the complete opposite and yet very much the same, he also wants order, but his idea of order is quite different. He would rather suffer and sacrifice than to see someone upset, hungry, offended or hurt. The idea of violence literally makes Hatta sick. His life follows a strange path of riddles and whimsy as he tries to help others from getting hurt.
Together they make a very odd sort of heroes but they're actions help change Wonderland to a place that is perfect for Alice's visit in the classic tale. After reading the book I went and rewatched Tim Burton's "Alice in Wonderland" and Hatter makes all of those characters' lives richer and the movie even more enjoyable.
I highly recommend this book. The language and action is appropriate for any member of the family, and should be enjoyable for all.
July 10, 2011
While I fully enjoyed Jabberwocky this book was even better as previous characters were re-visited and at times fully expanded upon (Brune and Chism) and new characters were introduced. The story is one of two brothers scarred in different ways from the same traumatic event finding common ground. Perhaps the Elite will introduce psychological testing after this adventure! I eagerly await Mr. Coleman next book.
November 6, 2011
Daniel Coleman is an utter delight! As someone who's spent a lot of time with Lewis Carroll (I memorized all of THE HUNTING OF THE SNARK when I was in High School), I was very pleased with Coleman's efforts to provide some fascinating glimpses into the probable motivations of some of these characters, tease out their back stories, and all in service to his own plot. Absolutely wonderful!
October 17, 2011
Originally reviewed on my blog, Books from Bleh to Basically Amazing.
Hatter by Daniel Coleman is a companion novel to Jabberwocky. Hatter is set in the same whimsical world as Jabberwocky but it extends that world beyond just the Jabberwock poem to include and create Coleman's version of Wonderland, taken from Lewis Carroll.
I have a bit of a love/hate relationship with retellings, one that is far too large and would completely take over this post if I tried to discuss it. But, the short version, is that while I absolutely love and adore fairy tale retellings, I completely avoid retellings of books. But the Alice in Wonderland stories kind of fall right in the middle for me. They are a book, but the stories of Wonderland feel very fairy tale-ish, so I'm a bit torn. The main reason I decided to read this book is because of how much I enjoy Jabberwocky.
I'll be honest and admit that I didn't love Hatter the same way I did Jabberwocky, but that doesn't surprise me... I've never actually read anything other than Jabberwocky by Lewis Carroll and my experiences with Alice are solely based on the Disney version of the story. And we all know their reputation for sticking close to the original... ... ...
Anyway, Hatter is the story of Hatta, who is trying to understand his position in the world. He knows he views the world differently from everyone else and he honestly fears the insanity (or outsanity) that is lurking just within his mind. He views the world in colors, vivid, vibrant colors and his clothing reflects that. It's really interesting reading from his perspective, because the colors are tied to emotions, both his and others, and people give off colors that are reflective of their personalities. It fascinated me, and Hatta was such a quirky and interesting character to follow. The other narrator, Chism, was also interesting to read about, but for different reasons. Chism is colorblind, a soldier and full of rage and bitterness. He's a loner who wants nothing more than to continue as an elite- protecting the order of life (the circle and sword) and doing his duty. But when what he views as his responsibility seriously backfires, he ends up putting himself in a lot of danger, and also being the spark that starts the fire.
I don't know that I can put my finger on it exactly, but no matter how much I enjoyed reading the story, and enjoyed the characters, I felt a small level of disconnect from the story. Hatta was just a little too abstract and hard to follow at times and Chism was just a little too bitter and aloof. I saw where Coleman was going with that, and I understand why it was written that way, but it was just a little... too.
I do also wish that we had gotten to see more of The Queen of Hearts, got to experience more from her and what ultimately made her decide to be that person. We get to see a little bit of how she goes from a 'normal' person and becomes the violent queen, but I would have liked more. But, that's also mostly, because she was one of my favorite parts of the cartoon. (how morbid & violent is that... The young kid loving the crazy face screaming Off with his head! :P)
But overall, I really enjoyed this book. I had hoped to enjoy it, but wasn't sure what to expect given my thoughts on retellings and the fact that I know very little of the real Wonderland. But I'm happy to say that the book more than lived up to my expectations, and I'm even hoping that Coleman plans to write more Wonderland stories, because I will read them all. :) Maybe it will even be the motivation I need to finally read the originals. :)
Hatter by Daniel Coleman is a companion novel to Jabberwocky. Hatter is set in the same whimsical world as Jabberwocky but it extends that world beyond just the Jabberwock poem to include and create Coleman's version of Wonderland, taken from Lewis Carroll.
I have a bit of a love/hate relationship with retellings, one that is far too large and would completely take over this post if I tried to discuss it. But, the short version, is that while I absolutely love and adore fairy tale retellings, I completely avoid retellings of books. But the Alice in Wonderland stories kind of fall right in the middle for me. They are a book, but the stories of Wonderland feel very fairy tale-ish, so I'm a bit torn. The main reason I decided to read this book is because of how much I enjoy Jabberwocky.
I'll be honest and admit that I didn't love Hatter the same way I did Jabberwocky, but that doesn't surprise me... I've never actually read anything other than Jabberwocky by Lewis Carroll and my experiences with Alice are solely based on the Disney version of the story. And we all know their reputation for sticking close to the original... ... ...
Anyway, Hatter is the story of Hatta, who is trying to understand his position in the world. He knows he views the world differently from everyone else and he honestly fears the insanity (or outsanity) that is lurking just within his mind. He views the world in colors, vivid, vibrant colors and his clothing reflects that. It's really interesting reading from his perspective, because the colors are tied to emotions, both his and others, and people give off colors that are reflective of their personalities. It fascinated me, and Hatta was such a quirky and interesting character to follow. The other narrator, Chism, was also interesting to read about, but for different reasons. Chism is colorblind, a soldier and full of rage and bitterness. He's a loner who wants nothing more than to continue as an elite- protecting the order of life (the circle and sword) and doing his duty. But when what he views as his responsibility seriously backfires, he ends up putting himself in a lot of danger, and also being the spark that starts the fire.
I don't know that I can put my finger on it exactly, but no matter how much I enjoyed reading the story, and enjoyed the characters, I felt a small level of disconnect from the story. Hatta was just a little too abstract and hard to follow at times and Chism was just a little too bitter and aloof. I saw where Coleman was going with that, and I understand why it was written that way, but it was just a little... too.
I do also wish that we had gotten to see more of The Queen of Hearts, got to experience more from her and what ultimately made her decide to be that person. We get to see a little bit of how she goes from a 'normal' person and becomes the violent queen, but I would have liked more. But, that's also mostly, because she was one of my favorite parts of the cartoon. (how morbid & violent is that... The young kid loving the crazy face screaming Off with his head! :P)
But overall, I really enjoyed this book. I had hoped to enjoy it, but wasn't sure what to expect given my thoughts on retellings and the fact that I know very little of the real Wonderland. But I'm happy to say that the book more than lived up to my expectations, and I'm even hoping that Coleman plans to write more Wonderland stories, because I will read them all. :) Maybe it will even be the motivation I need to finally read the originals. :)
January 20, 2012
Read the original and complete review at Word Spelunking
I loved Daniel Coleman’s Jabberwocky, so I was super excited to read the companion novel Hatter, and it did not disappoint. Coleman has once again enchanted and impressed me with his riveting storytelling.
Hatter, a companion book to Jabberwocky (although one need not necessarily read Jabberwocky to follow the storyline…but you really should because it too is an awesome book!), tells the story behind Hatta, aka the iconic Mad Hatter of Lewis Carroll’s Wonderland, and his descent into madness. Focusing on the story of two young men, Hatta and Chism, different in almost every way, Coleman proves to be a wonderfully wondrous word weaver (Ollie would be so proud!). Hatter tells the perfectly intertwined stories of Hatta and Chism, and explores Hatta’s fascinating and surprising journey to becoming the infamous Mad Hatter.
I noted in my review of Jabberwocky that it must be no easy task to write about such an iconic world full of beloved characters, but Coleman does just that and does so with a spellbinding flare. The world building in Hatter is phenomenal, vivid, and original. The world Coleman writes about is a world that has yet to become Wonderland, but his pre-Wonderland world and Carroll’s Wonderland world blend and harmonize beautifully. Yet, Coleman’s work is distinct and refreshing in its own right…and captivatingly so.
Hatter flows effortlessly, and both Hatta and Chism’s stories are equally and efficiently explored. Coleman does an excellent job of mixing together humor, action, emotion, romance, and fantastical whimsy, creating a superb story. I read this book in two sittings and was completely engrossed from beginning to end.
With such a fantastic world, you definitely need equally fantastic characters and Coleman’s characters are fabulously fantastic! Chism and Hatta are compelling as both individuals and as a duo. Serious, obsessive Chism is an intriguing character because he isn’t always easy to figure out. He’s so young at only 15, yet seems so much older. There’s such a profound depth to his character that will surprise and move readers.
Hatta is one of the most engaging and fascinating characters I’ve met in a long time. Coleman’s Hatta is, of course, very much like Carroll’s Hatter, but there are distinct and significant differences as well. Like the well-known Mad Hatter, Hatta is colorful (both literally and figuratively), speaks in riddles, and is outrageously absurd in his nonsense, yet often makes surprising and startling sense. But Coleman’s Hatta as yet to succumb to madness completely, so we get to experience his enthralling, and at times heart-breaking, conflict between logic and feeling, sanity and insanity, reality and imagination. Hatta was, at times, quite the breath-taking character.
Another of Coleman’s wonderful characters is the Red Queen or the Queen of Hearts. She is just as iconic as the Mad Hatter and Coleman has given her a truly captivating and surprisingly heart-breaking backstory as well.
Hatta ends on the most satisfying and ideal note.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS: Hatter is the perfect book for those readers who love Carroll’s work and crave more Wonderland, but it’s also the perfect book for those readers simply looking for an exciting and captivating fantasy read. There’s true magic in Daniel Coleman’s words and Hatter will leave you spellbound. An absolute MUST read book!
I loved Daniel Coleman’s Jabberwocky, so I was super excited to read the companion novel Hatter, and it did not disappoint. Coleman has once again enchanted and impressed me with his riveting storytelling.
Hatter, a companion book to Jabberwocky (although one need not necessarily read Jabberwocky to follow the storyline…but you really should because it too is an awesome book!), tells the story behind Hatta, aka the iconic Mad Hatter of Lewis Carroll’s Wonderland, and his descent into madness. Focusing on the story of two young men, Hatta and Chism, different in almost every way, Coleman proves to be a wonderfully wondrous word weaver (Ollie would be so proud!). Hatter tells the perfectly intertwined stories of Hatta and Chism, and explores Hatta’s fascinating and surprising journey to becoming the infamous Mad Hatter.
I noted in my review of Jabberwocky that it must be no easy task to write about such an iconic world full of beloved characters, but Coleman does just that and does so with a spellbinding flare. The world building in Hatter is phenomenal, vivid, and original. The world Coleman writes about is a world that has yet to become Wonderland, but his pre-Wonderland world and Carroll’s Wonderland world blend and harmonize beautifully. Yet, Coleman’s work is distinct and refreshing in its own right…and captivatingly so.
Hatter flows effortlessly, and both Hatta and Chism’s stories are equally and efficiently explored. Coleman does an excellent job of mixing together humor, action, emotion, romance, and fantastical whimsy, creating a superb story. I read this book in two sittings and was completely engrossed from beginning to end.
With such a fantastic world, you definitely need equally fantastic characters and Coleman’s characters are fabulously fantastic! Chism and Hatta are compelling as both individuals and as a duo. Serious, obsessive Chism is an intriguing character because he isn’t always easy to figure out. He’s so young at only 15, yet seems so much older. There’s such a profound depth to his character that will surprise and move readers.
Hatta is one of the most engaging and fascinating characters I’ve met in a long time. Coleman’s Hatta is, of course, very much like Carroll’s Hatter, but there are distinct and significant differences as well. Like the well-known Mad Hatter, Hatta is colorful (both literally and figuratively), speaks in riddles, and is outrageously absurd in his nonsense, yet often makes surprising and startling sense. But Coleman’s Hatta as yet to succumb to madness completely, so we get to experience his enthralling, and at times heart-breaking, conflict between logic and feeling, sanity and insanity, reality and imagination. Hatta was, at times, quite the breath-taking character.
Another of Coleman’s wonderful characters is the Red Queen or the Queen of Hearts. She is just as iconic as the Mad Hatter and Coleman has given her a truly captivating and surprisingly heart-breaking backstory as well.
Hatta ends on the most satisfying and ideal note.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS: Hatter is the perfect book for those readers who love Carroll’s work and crave more Wonderland, but it’s also the perfect book for those readers simply looking for an exciting and captivating fantasy read. There’s true magic in Daniel Coleman’s words and Hatter will leave you spellbound. An absolute MUST read book!
August 22, 2011
GENRE: Fantasy
THEME: Alice in Wonderland
RECEIVED: Received for Review from Teen Book Scene
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
I’ve always been a huge fan of the story Alice in Wonderland, but even more so the twisted tales that many authors have done with the famous story. Daniel Coleman has hands down written one of my favorite novels in the world of Alice in Wonderland. I loved the ideas, writing, and creativity of the old characters and how they were similar but extremely different at the same time.
Hatter is the companion novel to Colemans first book Jabberwocky, but you don’t need to have read it to understand this book. Some characters from the first novel are mentioned, but it’s easy to follow. Hatter follows two characters, Hatta and Chism, both opposites and both go through extreme challenges to survive and find a place where they feel that they’ll belong.
Hatta, or as many people would call him the Mad Hatter was a colorful, riddle extreme, kind and loveable character. Coleman really brought out a new side to this eccentric character, his dialog and interaction with other character was so entertaining and fun. Coleman made sure to put in a few key things that connect Hatta to the original story. For example not only did Hatta continue with his unusual way of talking, but the readers learn how Hatta was when he was younger and why he is the way he is, also with his extreme love for purple and connection to the Queen of Hearts.
Chism, is a solider and young man who was born a fighter. But every time he feels he’s doing the right thing, everything gets turned upside down. The way he’s introduced in the beginning was brilliantly written, it was such an intense scene that I held my breath through the first couple pages. Chism isn’t someone to mess with and don’t let his age fool you about his strength.
Overall I highly recommend Hatter, the action, plot, characters and how each boys lives interact together was captivating. I really enjoyed getting an origin story for the many characters I loved from the original tales. I’m excited to see what more Coleman will write in the world of Alice in Wonderland.
RECOMMENDATION:
This is a young adult book, the action and semi violence is mild for any age. It’s a colorful tale and enjoyable for fans of any genre. Fans of Frank Beddor’s The Looking Glass Wars will love Daniel Coleman’s Hatter.
THEME: Alice in Wonderland
RECEIVED: Received for Review from Teen Book Scene
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
I’ve always been a huge fan of the story Alice in Wonderland, but even more so the twisted tales that many authors have done with the famous story. Daniel Coleman has hands down written one of my favorite novels in the world of Alice in Wonderland. I loved the ideas, writing, and creativity of the old characters and how they were similar but extremely different at the same time.
Hatter is the companion novel to Colemans first book Jabberwocky, but you don’t need to have read it to understand this book. Some characters from the first novel are mentioned, but it’s easy to follow. Hatter follows two characters, Hatta and Chism, both opposites and both go through extreme challenges to survive and find a place where they feel that they’ll belong.
Hatta, or as many people would call him the Mad Hatter was a colorful, riddle extreme, kind and loveable character. Coleman really brought out a new side to this eccentric character, his dialog and interaction with other character was so entertaining and fun. Coleman made sure to put in a few key things that connect Hatta to the original story. For example not only did Hatta continue with his unusual way of talking, but the readers learn how Hatta was when he was younger and why he is the way he is, also with his extreme love for purple and connection to the Queen of Hearts.
Chism, is a solider and young man who was born a fighter. But every time he feels he’s doing the right thing, everything gets turned upside down. The way he’s introduced in the beginning was brilliantly written, it was such an intense scene that I held my breath through the first couple pages. Chism isn’t someone to mess with and don’t let his age fool you about his strength.
Overall I highly recommend Hatter, the action, plot, characters and how each boys lives interact together was captivating. I really enjoyed getting an origin story for the many characters I loved from the original tales. I’m excited to see what more Coleman will write in the world of Alice in Wonderland.
RECOMMENDATION:
This is a young adult book, the action and semi violence is mild for any age. It’s a colorful tale and enjoyable for fans of any genre. Fans of Frank Beddor’s The Looking Glass Wars will love Daniel Coleman’s Hatter.
August 17, 2011
Hatter by Daniel Coleman is the second book he has written based on Lewis Carroll's Alice books. There is a little bit of character crossover with Jabberwocky (book 1), but Hatter is easily understood as a stand alone book.
The book mainly follows Hatta and Chism two characters who are about as opposite as you can be. Hatta reads the world around him by the colors he sees; Chism is totally color blind. Hatta is an absent minded young man who loves to make friends; Chism is a very serious young man who is too focused on his duty for friends. Hatta abhors confrontation and cannot stand even the thought of violence; Chism is a member of the Elite who is a master of combat and has no compunction about killing people who are in the wrong. They only thing they have in common is a loyalty to their ideals that is absolute.
If you are familiar with the Alice setting then you can easily guess that this story deals with the Mad Hatter. There are also some old favorites such as the Queen of Hearts and the Chesire Cat involved in the story. I actually enjoyed the origin story behind the Queen of Hearts very much. I didn't really expect to like her very much, but in this tale it was easier to understand her.
Once again Daniel shows a mastery of the characters in the world of Lewis Carroll. I actually have never been a huge fan of the original stuff, but I look forward to reading whatever Daniel wants to write about it. The characters are genuinely enjoyable and it was touching to watch Chism grow as a person through the story. This book has driven the point home that Daniel Coleman is an author to keep an eye on and I will personally be reading whatever I can that he writes.
Review copy provided by author.
The book mainly follows Hatta and Chism two characters who are about as opposite as you can be. Hatta reads the world around him by the colors he sees; Chism is totally color blind. Hatta is an absent minded young man who loves to make friends; Chism is a very serious young man who is too focused on his duty for friends. Hatta abhors confrontation and cannot stand even the thought of violence; Chism is a member of the Elite who is a master of combat and has no compunction about killing people who are in the wrong. They only thing they have in common is a loyalty to their ideals that is absolute.
If you are familiar with the Alice setting then you can easily guess that this story deals with the Mad Hatter. There are also some old favorites such as the Queen of Hearts and the Chesire Cat involved in the story. I actually enjoyed the origin story behind the Queen of Hearts very much. I didn't really expect to like her very much, but in this tale it was easier to understand her.
Once again Daniel shows a mastery of the characters in the world of Lewis Carroll. I actually have never been a huge fan of the original stuff, but I look forward to reading whatever Daniel wants to write about it. The characters are genuinely enjoyable and it was touching to watch Chism grow as a person through the story. This book has driven the point home that Daniel Coleman is an author to keep an eye on and I will personally be reading whatever I can that he writes.
Review copy provided by author.
January 13, 2012
The iconic Mad Hatter, at twenty, sets out to save the kingdom complemented by the enigmatic Knight of Hearts, Chism.
While Hatta (I love how the author played on the British English pronunciation here) is one of the main characters of this book, and it is essentially his story, the tale would be nothing without 15 year-old boy soldier, Chism.
Chism, is to me, the perfect character. Every author's dream, every reader's fantasy.
The author could have given us that bitter one note righteous soldier. The story still would have been slightly interesting. But this wonderful, broken, soldier savant who counts his steps, doesn't like to be touched and carries a sword named Thirsty is so complex, yet completely sympathetic. He is Wonderland's answer to our world's Dexter-Clark Kent-Holden Caulfield-SEAL Team Six.
I thoroughly enjoyed exploring madness with the whole cast of Looking Glass characters, and in fact appreciated the absence of Alice.
A million thanks for making me sympathetic to the Queen of Hearts. I love when you can make me really feel for a consummate bad girl.
Daniel Coleman you are the next Gregory Maguire.
My recommendations:
Run, don't walk, saunter, sashay or shimmy your way over to Amazon and buy, yeah, that's right, buy, this book. Then read it, nonstop.
I know the whole point of free books is to tempt me to buy other books by the same author, but you know what, I never have before. Until today. I immediately bought Daniel Coleman's other Wonderland book, Jabberwocky. I can't wait to read it and anything else he comes out with.
Bring it on Mr. Firefighter who can write, bring it on.
This book gets infinity stars from me!
Find more reviews of free ebooks at my blog http://amydenim.blogspot.com
While Hatta (I love how the author played on the British English pronunciation here) is one of the main characters of this book, and it is essentially his story, the tale would be nothing without 15 year-old boy soldier, Chism.
Chism, is to me, the perfect character. Every author's dream, every reader's fantasy.
The author could have given us that bitter one note righteous soldier. The story still would have been slightly interesting. But this wonderful, broken, soldier savant who counts his steps, doesn't like to be touched and carries a sword named Thirsty is so complex, yet completely sympathetic. He is Wonderland's answer to our world's Dexter-Clark Kent-Holden Caulfield-SEAL Team Six.
I thoroughly enjoyed exploring madness with the whole cast of Looking Glass characters, and in fact appreciated the absence of Alice.
A million thanks for making me sympathetic to the Queen of Hearts. I love when you can make me really feel for a consummate bad girl.
Daniel Coleman you are the next Gregory Maguire.
My recommendations:
Run, don't walk, saunter, sashay or shimmy your way over to Amazon and buy, yeah, that's right, buy, this book. Then read it, nonstop.
I know the whole point of free books is to tempt me to buy other books by the same author, but you know what, I never have before. Until today. I immediately bought Daniel Coleman's other Wonderland book, Jabberwocky. I can't wait to read it and anything else he comes out with.
Bring it on Mr. Firefighter who can write, bring it on.
This book gets infinity stars from me!
Find more reviews of free ebooks at my blog http://amydenim.blogspot.com
March 5, 2012
Mad as a hatter? Wondering about Ravens and Writing Desks? Or just know a cat named Cheshire? Answer yes to these questions and you are definitely ready to read Hatter by Daniel Coleman.
Enter our heroes. Chism... a '13', useless, weak, a throwaway... yet, he walks into battle ready to save a duke, a peasant, and maybe his own skin just to show the world that honor isn't just for the rich man. Hatta... funny, odd, and maybe slightly mad... he is just the kind of person you want at your side if you are going off on an adventure as long as it doesn't mean anything dangerous and colors are a plus. Together, they are destine to save their kingdoms or die trying.
I love Wonderland. Since the first time I watched Alice on TV to the day i was old enough to read the book, I have been smitten with the characters as well as the world. To say, I'm very weary of books that are written about Wonderland is an understatement, and when I say that this is a top notch book, I'm not kidding.
Hatter is wonderfully written and creative without taking away the magic that is Wonderland. Using these beloved characters to weave a story about brotherhood, friendship, and love, Coleman has given us more reasons to cherish this world than ever before. Plot twists that weave into an almost poetry like end, he gives more essence to characters like Hatter, Cheshire Cat, and even the Queen of Hearts. He also brings in new ones to love and shows us that even though the creator may have passed away, his world can be given life by new writers.
Hatter is one of those rare gems that needs exploring again and again... trust me when I say, take a dive down that rabbit hole for this maddening little tale of fun... after all, we are all mad here, are we not?!
Enter our heroes. Chism... a '13', useless, weak, a throwaway... yet, he walks into battle ready to save a duke, a peasant, and maybe his own skin just to show the world that honor isn't just for the rich man. Hatta... funny, odd, and maybe slightly mad... he is just the kind of person you want at your side if you are going off on an adventure as long as it doesn't mean anything dangerous and colors are a plus. Together, they are destine to save their kingdoms or die trying.
I love Wonderland. Since the first time I watched Alice on TV to the day i was old enough to read the book, I have been smitten with the characters as well as the world. To say, I'm very weary of books that are written about Wonderland is an understatement, and when I say that this is a top notch book, I'm not kidding.
Hatter is wonderfully written and creative without taking away the magic that is Wonderland. Using these beloved characters to weave a story about brotherhood, friendship, and love, Coleman has given us more reasons to cherish this world than ever before. Plot twists that weave into an almost poetry like end, he gives more essence to characters like Hatter, Cheshire Cat, and even the Queen of Hearts. He also brings in new ones to love and shows us that even though the creator may have passed away, his world can be given life by new writers.
Hatter is one of those rare gems that needs exploring again and again... trust me when I say, take a dive down that rabbit hole for this maddening little tale of fun... after all, we are all mad here, are we not?!
September 23, 2014
This was a brilliant work of art! Coleman keeps to the original Carroll style making for a madly wild ride of randomness! I really enjoyed reading about the life of "literature's most lovable lunatic" prior to Alice in Wonderland. It brought a whole new and understandable light to his character and I loved all of Coleman's subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) references or set-ups-for the classic; including characters! I loved spotting parallels in personality or appearance that gave their true "future" role away. (The Cheshire Cat playing a part from the very beginning was genius! Loved the parts with him.)
The writing style was fascinating and I was super happy there was no profanity in the dialogue! :D
This really gave me a new perspective on my favorite classic that is actually believable (well, in a Wonderland sort of way ;)) and didn't ruin my taste for any of it- it actually made me want to read Alice in Wonderland again, specifically to read it with this prologue in mind.
The writing style was fascinating and I was super happy there was no profanity in the dialogue! :D
This really gave me a new perspective on my favorite classic that is actually believable (well, in a Wonderland sort of way ;)) and didn't ruin my taste for any of it- it actually made me want to read Alice in Wonderland again, specifically to read it with this prologue in mind.
March 7, 2012
FINALLY was able to start reading again in February...after all the Holiday action!! LOVED Daniel Coleman's interpretation of the "Mad Hatter"... if you think to dismiss these as just 'Alice in Wonderland' spin off's you DEEPLY miss the intent!
I love the way Coleman uses COLORS and WORDS in this very poetic, adventuresome tale!
WAY TO GO CUZ...yes, I am related to this very talented author! DON'T miss these books and when you are through I have NO DOUBT you will pass them on to friends and family!! The first in the series is called "Jabberwocky"!
Fell in love with Chism and about died when you are thrown for a loop towards the end!! LOVE IT! LOVE IT! DID I MENTION I LOVED IT?!!!
I love the way Coleman uses COLORS and WORDS in this very poetic, adventuresome tale!
WAY TO GO CUZ...yes, I am related to this very talented author! DON'T miss these books and when you are through I have NO DOUBT you will pass them on to friends and family!! The first in the series is called "Jabberwocky"!
Fell in love with Chism and about died when you are thrown for a loop towards the end!! LOVE IT! LOVE IT! DID I MENTION I LOVED IT?!!!
March 7, 2012
I wasn't sure about this one at first - after all I enjoyed the original Alice stories so much that I was a little resistant but I'm happy to say that I was won over from the first few pages. Hatter tells the story of the Mad Hatter and also explains the back story to the Red Queen and I loved the way that the queen was portrayed as a fallible, normal woman which allowed me to empathise with her. Hatter himself is a wonderful character and the book sympathetically charts his descent into madness. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and read it all in one go whilst away for a weekend, will go back to one of Coleman's earlier books, Jabberwocky now to catch up on events before Hatter.
January 26, 2012
I LOVE this book!! I read it as an ebook & it was darling! Just as imaginative & creative as the Hatter I had come to love from Alice in Wonderland...only BETTER b/c I got to know more about him. Coleman's writing made me feel as if it was a continuation of the story rather than a entirely new story.
I would recommend this book to anyone as the magic & wonder that is Hatter's madness is a little infectious & makes me a believer that the Circle & a Smile can triumph over all adversity!!
Can't wait to read Jabberwocky. :)
I would recommend this book to anyone as the magic & wonder that is Hatter's madness is a little infectious & makes me a believer that the Circle & a Smile can triumph over all adversity!!
Can't wait to read Jabberwocky. :)
April 25, 2012
I truly enjoyed this story. Hatta's POV is the perfect balance to Chism's. They are opposites in every conceivable way. While Hatta sees the world as a swirling of colors, Chism is color blind and that is just the beginning. The story follows Hatta as he journey's to fulfill his destiny of saving the kingdom. As a reader I really wondered if this book would be able to stand next to my beloved Alice and Wonderland. Daniel Coleman did a terrific job and while it's certainly not Lewis Carroll, it is a wonderful addition to the world of Wonderland!
March 6, 2012
I loved this book! His first, Jabberwocky, was good but it sort of lacked a little something. This book, however, exceeded all of my expectations. It had twists and turns that left me pleasantly surprised and it incorporated a lot from Alice that was all delightful to discover. I would definitely recommend this book to any fan of Alice and Wonderland.
March 7, 2012
I loved this book! It was amazing. Great characters, great story. easy to follow. Great tie-in with Coleman's previous book 'Jabberwocky', which I also really enjoyed. This is my kind of book, and even if this isn't your genre, it's one you will enjoy.
August 13, 2012
What a unique twist to the Alice in Wonderland story. Told from Hatter's POV and that of his brother, it's both entertaining and thought-provoking. I loved it! Will soon be reading Jabberwocky by the same author. (Also really liked his book Gifts & Consequences_
October 10, 2011
I recommend this book to...everyone. It is so totally awesome. Plus my name is in the acknowledgements, which helps, but I love it even if my name is not in it!
August 3, 2011
Awesome, just like the previous book. The plot actually did keep me guessing, and once again seeing Lewis Carroll's world come to life in a new way was very fun.
May 3, 2012
I loved each and every page, a wonderful story and highly addictive read!
March 11, 2012
A brilliant back-story to my favourite character from Wonderland! Such a treat to read
April 5, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. It was interesting to see how the the characters we know became who they are.
June 11, 2012
Loved this story line! Hatta and Chism are absolutely wonderful!
May 17, 2019
Wether you like Alice in wonderland or not, you'll love this book. "Hatter" focuses on two main characters. one of them is Hatta, he is perky and kind to everyone he meets. He is slightly "mad" but you can't help but smile when he talks nonsense. Hatta also hates even the mention of conflict or war. The second main character's name is Chism. He is always craving for a fight and hates when people touch or make physical contact with him. Whenever he is seen he always has his trusty sword Thirsty by his side. Chism is also an Elite in the Quicksilver squadron (An Elite is like an officer). I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy or action books. Even if you don't like those kinds of books I would suggest you take the risk and stop to enjoy this book.
April 27, 2018
This book quickly became a new addiction that I had to constantly tear myself away from so I could go about my daily tasks. Every chapter brought me through emotions that made me physically gasp, laugh, and at some parts shed tears; which honestly is not typical for me to get so emotionally attached and invested. It is beautifully written and makes many references to the original works of Lewis Carroll, which is pretty awesome.
If you enjoy Alice in Wonderland (or even if you just want a good book) this is a must!
If you enjoy Alice in Wonderland (or even if you just want a good book) this is a must!
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