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The Other Alice
What happens when a tale with real magic, that was supposed to be finished, never was? This is a story about one of those stories . . .
Midge loves riddles, his cat, Twitch, and ‒ most of all ‒ stories. Especially because he’s grown up being read to by his sister Alice, a brilliant writer.
When Alice goes missing and a talking cat turns up in her bedroom, Midge searches Alice’s stories for a clue. Soon he discovers that her secret book, The Museum of Unfinished Stories, is much more than just a story. In fact, he finds two of its characters wandering around town.
But every tale has its villains ‒ and with them leaping off the page, Midge, Gypsy and Piper must use all their wits and cunning to work out how the story ends and find Alice. If they fail, a more sinister finale threatens them all . . .
A rich and twisting tale of magic, riddles and talking cats, from a classic author.
Midge loves riddles, his cat, Twitch, and ‒ most of all ‒ stories. Especially because he’s grown up being read to by his sister Alice, a brilliant writer.
When Alice goes missing and a talking cat turns up in her bedroom, Midge searches Alice’s stories for a clue. Soon he discovers that her secret book, The Museum of Unfinished Stories, is much more than just a story. In fact, he finds two of its characters wandering around town.
But every tale has its villains ‒ and with them leaping off the page, Midge, Gypsy and Piper must use all their wits and cunning to work out how the story ends and find Alice. If they fail, a more sinister finale threatens them all . . .
A rich and twisting tale of magic, riddles and talking cats, from a classic author.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2016
15 people are currently reading
1417 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Harrison
49 books1,214 followersMy first children's novel, THE 13 TREASURES, won the Waterstone's Children's Book Prize. THE OTHER ALICE won the Calderdale Book of the Year Award. A PINCH OF MAGIC won a Dutch Bronze Pen Award. My books have been translated and sold in 25 territories worldwide.
My latest novel is a sequel to TWICE UPON A TIME, publishing in Spring 2026 in the UK. My second picture book, THERE'S A SHARK IN MY PANTS! publishes in the UK in July 2025 and is illustrated by the incredible David Tazzyman.
Before becoming a full-time writer I worked in publishing as an editor, and before that, as a bookseller. Prior to that, I worked in bars, a bakery, and a second-hand record shop to make ends meet while trying to get my first book deal. I live in Essex and have a son, Jack, and two cats, Widdershins and Lucky.
The best place to get in touch with me is via my website or Instagram (@michelleharrisonauthor).
My latest novel is a sequel to TWICE UPON A TIME, publishing in Spring 2026 in the UK. My second picture book, THERE'S A SHARK IN MY PANTS! publishes in the UK in July 2025 and is illustrated by the incredible David Tazzyman.
Before becoming a full-time writer I worked in publishing as an editor, and before that, as a bookseller. Prior to that, I worked in bars, a bakery, and a second-hand record shop to make ends meet while trying to get my first book deal. I live in Essex and have a son, Jack, and two cats, Widdershins and Lucky.
The best place to get in touch with me is via my website or Instagram (@michelleharrisonauthor).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
January 23, 2023
This book was packed full of adventure! Twists and turns in almost every page! It was absolutely amazing 😍
February 14, 2021
2021 EDIT: 'The Other Alice' remains an explosively creative and gorgeously written fantasy book. The last few pages are rather rushed and abrupt, and there is some exoticism surrounding Romany people; in that they are depicted as being all about magical powers and curses. But I was enjoying myself too much whilst reading, and I couldn't bring myself to be largely bothered by it. It's a small issue in an otherwise completely enchanting, contemporary fairy tale.
It is more violent and grisly than I remember it, too. What a villain - a smart, self-aware, deliciously evil female teen serial killer! She's like the Joker of fantasy! How daring for children's lit! Each character is complex and sympathetic, or if not, then they are entertaining and memorable enough as is.
'The Other Alice' is a must for fantasy readers.
I'll never forget how the author praised my original review in a Goodreads comment, saying how much my words mean to her. What joy there is for writers and readers to have a positive and healthy relationship.
(Also, I could've easily finished the book in two days instead of three, but I was busy the other day with moving my bookshelves and other furniture in my room. I possess too much stuff!)
Final Score: 4/5
Original Review:
I was hooked from the first page, and 'The Other Alice' never let me go.
Oh how long has it been since a fantasy novel enchanted me? Made me want to start writing fantasy myself again?
'The Other Alice' has the "characters from fiction books come to life in the real world" premise that's rarely been done well, in my experience. Oh my goddesses, Michelle Harrison's expertly planned-out and wonderful children's book did it justice so, so well. I didn't like '13 Treasures', but 'The Other Alice' drove the sceptic out of me; Harrison can execute her ideas in a way that's not just clever in writing, but which succeeds in making me care about the characters and the perils they are in.
Here, the idea is about the unfinished stories of the world, and what happens if the characters of those stories want their ending, and demand it of their writer who's abandoned them or is suffering from writer's block. Or if the characters want to write their own destinies, uncontrolled by an author, who is like their god, planning their whole existence...
'The Neverending Story' is one of my favourites, and 'The Other Alice' reminded me of it, in that it really pulled me into the fantastical, atmospheric, storytelling-meta-based world the author created; exploring narratives, themes, character archetypes and plot devices typical of the fantasy genre. Dolls, talking cat familiars, fairy tale imagery, libraries, and the power of imagination, reading and writing - 'The Other Alice' is abundant with these magical gifts and more.
The 'Inkworld' books really set the stage for the concept of bringing fictional characters to life and seeing how they live in reality - pretty exciting stuff, and full of story and character potential. I mean, who wouldn't want to actually meet their favourite characters, or the characters they created themselves? But on the other hand, what happens when the villains of a story come to life as well? In fact, how would any character react and feel when they realise they are not real, just figments of someone else's imagination put on paper in ink? A fun wish-fulfilment premise can easily turn dangerous. This plot can be deconstructed in so many different ways, and explored so thoroughly; there are no limitations.
In my opinion, 'The Other Alice' achieves all of this beautifully, making up for the setbacks of the 'Inkworld' series, where a great idea cannot hide other flaws such as dry and unlikeable characters.
Another, more recent novel with a similar concept is 'The Untold Tale' by J. M. Frey. But this time it's in reverse: Where a contemporary reader and fan of a fantasy book series is transported into that same world. The book intends to bring light to and deconstruct the problematic tropes of the fantasy genre, by contrasting them with real life subjects and issues. I was loving and praising it - at first. However, the ending of 'The Untold Tale' - the last 90 pages - completely botches everything it had been trying to do, and is an utter insult which makes me angrier the more I think about it. All that hype, all that promise; needless to say, I was heartbroken.
Thankfully, 'The Other Alice' didn't disappoint me, even as I was expecting it to towards its end. I grew more fascinated as I read it, but I kept my guard up, staying cautious, and was careful not to pass judgement until I had finished it. And while the ending is rather rushed - burnt out by its substantial build-up to great potential - the charm is never lost.
I could go on until twilight talking about the characters; such as the ardent, brilliant teenage writer Alice Silver who possesses unlimited bouts of imagination; her eleven-year-old brother Midge who is the narrator of the book and with whom Alice shares her stories; Tabitha the sarcastic, lazy, tea-loving talking black cat; and the deliciously evil serial killer Dorothy Grimes, created from Alice's worst fears (obsessively writing and no longer being able to differentiate fiction and reality anymore).
Another thing to adore about 'The Other Alice' is it doesn't talk down to its readers. Aside from the darker elements, the narrative structure is complex and multi-layered, like when it's telling stories within a story, containing a variety of themes concerning free will, wish-fulfilment, how much we can really know a person and their mentality, one's place in existence, and family.
I can picture 'The Other Alice' being adapted for the big screen: A children's fantasy film layering in psychological components, set pieces and subtexts, with thrilling action sequences and emotional, human touches throughout.
I only wish it could have been longer so that it goes further with its ideas (it could in a movie), instead we get a slow build-up and an abrupt ending. But that isn't necessarily a bad thing, for it demonstrates how no story truly ends, as long as we keep reading them and connecting to the characters in their external and internal journeys, spiritually.
'The Other Alice', if nothing else, taught me to keep on reading and writing. The imagination is a powerful tool, exciting and important and inspirational, or dangerous, depending on how it is used. Right up there on the bookshelf with 'Harry Potter', 'The Neverending Story' and 'Daughter of Smoke and Bone', this other story about an Alice character is what I read fantasy for. It is what I read books for.
Enchanting.
Final Score: 4/5
It is more violent and grisly than I remember it, too. What a villain - a smart, self-aware, deliciously evil female teen serial killer! She's like the Joker of fantasy! How daring for children's lit! Each character is complex and sympathetic, or if not, then they are entertaining and memorable enough as is.
'The Other Alice' is a must for fantasy readers.
I'll never forget how the author praised my original review in a Goodreads comment, saying how much my words mean to her. What joy there is for writers and readers to have a positive and healthy relationship.
(Also, I could've easily finished the book in two days instead of three, but I was busy the other day with moving my bookshelves and other furniture in my room. I possess too much stuff!)
Final Score: 4/5
Original Review:
I was hooked from the first page, and 'The Other Alice' never let me go.
Oh how long has it been since a fantasy novel enchanted me? Made me want to start writing fantasy myself again?
'The Other Alice' has the "characters from fiction books come to life in the real world" premise that's rarely been done well, in my experience. Oh my goddesses, Michelle Harrison's expertly planned-out and wonderful children's book did it justice so, so well. I didn't like '13 Treasures', but 'The Other Alice' drove the sceptic out of me; Harrison can execute her ideas in a way that's not just clever in writing, but which succeeds in making me care about the characters and the perils they are in.
Here, the idea is about the unfinished stories of the world, and what happens if the characters of those stories want their ending, and demand it of their writer who's abandoned them or is suffering from writer's block. Or if the characters want to write their own destinies, uncontrolled by an author, who is like their god, planning their whole existence...
'The Neverending Story' is one of my favourites, and 'The Other Alice' reminded me of it, in that it really pulled me into the fantastical, atmospheric, storytelling-meta-based world the author created; exploring narratives, themes, character archetypes and plot devices typical of the fantasy genre. Dolls, talking cat familiars, fairy tale imagery, libraries, and the power of imagination, reading and writing - 'The Other Alice' is abundant with these magical gifts and more.
The 'Inkworld' books really set the stage for the concept of bringing fictional characters to life and seeing how they live in reality - pretty exciting stuff, and full of story and character potential. I mean, who wouldn't want to actually meet their favourite characters, or the characters they created themselves? But on the other hand, what happens when the villains of a story come to life as well? In fact, how would any character react and feel when they realise they are not real, just figments of someone else's imagination put on paper in ink? A fun wish-fulfilment premise can easily turn dangerous. This plot can be deconstructed in so many different ways, and explored so thoroughly; there are no limitations.
In my opinion, 'The Other Alice' achieves all of this beautifully, making up for the setbacks of the 'Inkworld' series, where a great idea cannot hide other flaws such as dry and unlikeable characters.
Another, more recent novel with a similar concept is 'The Untold Tale' by J. M. Frey. But this time it's in reverse: Where a contemporary reader and fan of a fantasy book series is transported into that same world. The book intends to bring light to and deconstruct the problematic tropes of the fantasy genre, by contrasting them with real life subjects and issues. I was loving and praising it - at first. However, the ending of 'The Untold Tale' - the last 90 pages - completely botches everything it had been trying to do, and is an utter insult which makes me angrier the more I think about it. All that hype, all that promise; needless to say, I was heartbroken.
Thankfully, 'The Other Alice' didn't disappoint me, even as I was expecting it to towards its end. I grew more fascinated as I read it, but I kept my guard up, staying cautious, and was careful not to pass judgement until I had finished it. And while the ending is rather rushed - burnt out by its substantial build-up to great potential - the charm is never lost.
I could go on until twilight talking about the characters; such as the ardent, brilliant teenage writer Alice Silver who possesses unlimited bouts of imagination; her eleven-year-old brother Midge who is the narrator of the book and with whom Alice shares her stories; Tabitha the sarcastic, lazy, tea-loving talking black cat; and the deliciously evil serial killer Dorothy Grimes, created from Alice's worst fears (obsessively writing and no longer being able to differentiate fiction and reality anymore).
Another thing to adore about 'The Other Alice' is it doesn't talk down to its readers. Aside from the darker elements, the narrative structure is complex and multi-layered, like when it's telling stories within a story, containing a variety of themes concerning free will, wish-fulfilment, how much we can really know a person and their mentality, one's place in existence, and family.
I can picture 'The Other Alice' being adapted for the big screen: A children's fantasy film layering in psychological components, set pieces and subtexts, with thrilling action sequences and emotional, human touches throughout.
I only wish it could have been longer so that it goes further with its ideas (it could in a movie), instead we get a slow build-up and an abrupt ending. But that isn't necessarily a bad thing, for it demonstrates how no story truly ends, as long as we keep reading them and connecting to the characters in their external and internal journeys, spiritually.
'The Other Alice', if nothing else, taught me to keep on reading and writing. The imagination is a powerful tool, exciting and important and inspirational, or dangerous, depending on how it is used. Right up there on the bookshelf with 'Harry Potter', 'The Neverending Story' and 'Daughter of Smoke and Bone', this other story about an Alice character is what I read fantasy for. It is what I read books for.
Enchanting.
Final Score: 4/5
August 28, 2021
For some reason I found this book, once upon a time, when I was searching for Alice in Wonderland retellings. I have no idea why this book appears on the list. Apart from a talking cat and a disappearing Alice the stories have not much in common, but when I reread the blurb last week I all of a sudden really wanted to read the book. And since I needed a book with a talking animal for a reading challenge, I had a great excuse to pick it up now.
Everything about this story is entertaining and it's an adventure, from start to finish, for both younger readers and older readers. Where the kids will most likely appreciate the mystery, the running around and the little bit of danger, the older readers will most likely appreciate the idea that the characters of an unfinished story can come to life to claim their own endings. I mean, don't we all love those moments when books and reality start to mix?
What I love is that this story is exciting on loads of differents fronts. On the one hand we have the disappearance of Alice and Midge trying to find her. Then we have the characters searching for their own happy endings, and trying to come up with ways to make sure the author can't take their happy ending away again. And we also have the entire reason why especially Alice's characters are coming to life when she unfinishes a story and how the issue can be solved.
And Harrison manages to really keeps the story interesting by writing incredibly vividly and by never losing time over needless descriptions or conversations. She tells what needs to be told and she does so in beautiful sentences, but she's not losing herself. Therefore the book ranks very nicely in between Middle Grade and Young Adult. A little like the first books in the Percy Jackson series. I will certainly check out other books by Michelle Harrison too!
Everything about this story is entertaining and it's an adventure, from start to finish, for both younger readers and older readers. Where the kids will most likely appreciate the mystery, the running around and the little bit of danger, the older readers will most likely appreciate the idea that the characters of an unfinished story can come to life to claim their own endings. I mean, don't we all love those moments when books and reality start to mix?
What I love is that this story is exciting on loads of differents fronts. On the one hand we have the disappearance of Alice and Midge trying to find her. Then we have the characters searching for their own happy endings, and trying to come up with ways to make sure the author can't take their happy ending away again. And we also have the entire reason why especially Alice's characters are coming to life when she unfinishes a story and how the issue can be solved.
And Harrison manages to really keeps the story interesting by writing incredibly vividly and by never losing time over needless descriptions or conversations. She tells what needs to be told and she does so in beautiful sentences, but she's not losing herself. Therefore the book ranks very nicely in between Middle Grade and Young Adult. A little like the first books in the Percy Jackson series. I will certainly check out other books by Michelle Harrison too!
April 18, 2020
I believe this is suppose to be loosely based off of Alice In Wonderland. But to me it felt like a mix of a bunch of Disney fairytales. Like Alice (obviously), The Little Mermaid and more than anything, Sleeping Beauty! The villain especially gave me strong Malificent vibes! I also adored the cat. She was my favorite character. Very sassy, lazy, curious and a know it all 😆 typical cat! Besides, who doesn’t love talking cats in books? She really added a lot to the story for me.
Anyway, I found the story to be fun and easy to read. I really enjoyed the characters and the plot. I was even impressed with the writing! This book just wasn’t the greatest thing I’ve ever read. And I think part of that may be partially my fault... I was comparing it to the authors other works. And I definitely prefer her other books as opposed to this one.
But it’s still a fun read and I would recommend!
Anyway, I found the story to be fun and easy to read. I really enjoyed the characters and the plot. I was even impressed with the writing! This book just wasn’t the greatest thing I’ve ever read. And I think part of that may be partially my fault... I was comparing it to the authors other works. And I definitely prefer her other books as opposed to this one.
But it’s still a fun read and I would recommend!
November 19, 2016
Read this for school's book club (and to see if would be ok for my daughter). I loved it- it kept me gripped all the way through. A bit derivative (this was similar to Inkheart) but then I loved Inkheart so I didn't mind it. Will definitely be recommending this to the group!
April 5, 2017
Enjoyed that! A great story about stories. A touch of sorcery mixed with a generous dollop of old wives tales and fairy tales. I enjoyed its adventures, even the dark chinks in the cloth of tales! Just a tiny thing niggled at me, I was sorry that it's cover made it appealing to girls as it's hero was a boy. Just a very small grumble and only expressed as I thought it limits its audience.
April 26, 2024
The chokehold this book had on 10 year old me oh my god
I keep getting urges to reread it
oh my god none of you know the ways in which this book has affected me I constantly think of it, it’s not okay.
I keep getting urges to reread it
oh my god none of you know the ways in which this book has affected me I constantly think of it, it’s not okay.
July 7, 2016
I was sent an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Other Alice is a book aimed at children aged 9 and upwards, however I am a big kid at heart so thought I would have a read before I gave it to my eldest girls to look at.
Filled with magic, mystery and a cast of characters that are highly entertaining, this story is definitely one to keep you turning the pages.
A clever concept as it is a book within a book, except there is an added twist, this second book has come to life, well its characters have anyway.
Young Alice has been having trouble ending her first real novel but a curse passed down from her father has caused very strange things to occur so when Alice goes missing her little brother Midge is more than concerned.
We are taken on a Journey with him along with his new found friends Tabitha (the talking cat), Piper and Gypsy to not only find his sister but to discover a way of finishing the tale the Alice has created.
The adventure is fast paced and filled with riddles that I'm not sure I could have answered without their help. I was more than intrigued and if anything I'm left hoping that perhaps these characters could be seen in another story.
Wonderfully imaginative, it is a story that is going to leave you spellbound.
The Other Alice is a book aimed at children aged 9 and upwards, however I am a big kid at heart so thought I would have a read before I gave it to my eldest girls to look at.
Filled with magic, mystery and a cast of characters that are highly entertaining, this story is definitely one to keep you turning the pages.
A clever concept as it is a book within a book, except there is an added twist, this second book has come to life, well its characters have anyway.
Young Alice has been having trouble ending her first real novel but a curse passed down from her father has caused very strange things to occur so when Alice goes missing her little brother Midge is more than concerned.
We are taken on a Journey with him along with his new found friends Tabitha (the talking cat), Piper and Gypsy to not only find his sister but to discover a way of finishing the tale the Alice has created.
The adventure is fast paced and filled with riddles that I'm not sure I could have answered without their help. I was more than intrigued and if anything I'm left hoping that perhaps these characters could be seen in another story.
Wonderfully imaginative, it is a story that is going to leave you spellbound.
July 17, 2017
This book takes us in a new world of fairytales with action, twisted plot and charming characters. We are caught in the swirl of adventure, always willing to know what happens next. Even if some parts of the story seems to be a little too obvious, the author surprises us many times whitout letting us the time to get bored.
November 29, 2020
This was an incredibly beautiful book. It's an ode to books, writing and the written word. The prose was beautiful and yet managed to be a captivating and enthralling read for it's intended target audience. I think this is a new favourite middle grade. I love following Midge, listening to Alice, Tabitha's attitude, the whimsy of Gypsy and Piper's story... I could go on...
Phenomenal read!
Phenomenal read!
May 17, 2022
childhood fav!
June 5, 2020
Michelle has a history of writing books that are full of twists and turns, with a sprinkle of magic. This was no different. There are twists, turns, spirals and loop the loops. The Other Alice is a book for story lovers, with its nods to traditional tales and writers. If you know that all stories have a bit of magic in them, a mind of their own even, then this is the book for you.
February 5, 2017
So I really wanted to like this book as I loved the authors 13 treasures series.
This book really fell apart for me with the magic aspect. Too many things were explained as just "magic" without a plausible explanation. It was if "magic" was used as a way to explain something the author couldn't come up with a better explanation for. Example: It was too quick and easy to say that Gypsy all the sudden had the ability to speak just because she had put someone else clothes on- very convenient to give this character back her voice in the last portion of the book then have to find ways for her to communicate. And the explanation of how Tabitha and Dolly switched bodies was too easily dismissed as magic.
Also half way through all the sudden its noted that Dolly and Dorothy are different people? what did I miss? The whole time I assumed they were the same person, which turns out I was right. Very confusing and poorly executed.
Aside from some confusing aspects and the convenient magic I just never really connected to the characters. If it weren't for the back of the book stating that Midge was a boy I would've assumed the character was female.
All in all I can't recommend this book, it was an interesting concept that just wasn't well flushed out in my opinion. But I will continue to read more from this author as I think her writing is clean and she does creepy really well which I find intriguing when used in middle grade books.
This book really fell apart for me with the magic aspect. Too many things were explained as just "magic" without a plausible explanation. It was if "magic" was used as a way to explain something the author couldn't come up with a better explanation for. Example: It was too quick and easy to say that Gypsy all the sudden had the ability to speak just because she had put someone else clothes on- very convenient to give this character back her voice in the last portion of the book then have to find ways for her to communicate. And the explanation of how Tabitha and Dolly switched bodies was too easily dismissed as magic.
Also half way through all the sudden its noted that Dolly and Dorothy are different people? what did I miss? The whole time I assumed they were the same person, which turns out I was right. Very confusing and poorly executed.
Aside from some confusing aspects and the convenient magic I just never really connected to the characters. If it weren't for the back of the book stating that Midge was a boy I would've assumed the character was female.
All in all I can't recommend this book, it was an interesting concept that just wasn't well flushed out in my opinion. But I will continue to read more from this author as I think her writing is clean and she does creepy really well which I find intriguing when used in middle grade books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2017
Michelle Harrison is an amazing writer, combining fantasy, adventure and a little mystery to create a book to read and re-read. I loved her rich language and the way she describes settings and characters is as though you are actually there and meeting the character yourself.
It is about a girl called Alice who is a brilliant writer and her brother, Midge. She is writing a book called ‘The Museum of Unfinished Stories,’ and ironically, she is unable to finish it herself. For most normal people, this isn’t a problem, but for Alice, it is huge. Huge because Alice is cursed and every time Alice leaves a story unfinished, the characters haunt her in her dreams and begin showing up outside of her house, demanding their ending.
So when Midge finds her gone and characters from her book roaming around town, he knows that he has to help her. He sets out to find her, accompanied by Gypsy, Piper and a talking cat that loves tea, oblivious to the fact that one of the story’s villains is on their track.
BTW: If you enjoyed this story, Michelle Harrison has also written a short story featuring Gypsy and Piper in another book called 'Winter Magic,' full of stories by award winning authors. She also wrote the 13 Treasures trilogy and 'One Wish,' which are all soooooo good!
It is about a girl called Alice who is a brilliant writer and her brother, Midge. She is writing a book called ‘The Museum of Unfinished Stories,’ and ironically, she is unable to finish it herself. For most normal people, this isn’t a problem, but for Alice, it is huge. Huge because Alice is cursed and every time Alice leaves a story unfinished, the characters haunt her in her dreams and begin showing up outside of her house, demanding their ending.
So when Midge finds her gone and characters from her book roaming around town, he knows that he has to help her. He sets out to find her, accompanied by Gypsy, Piper and a talking cat that loves tea, oblivious to the fact that one of the story’s villains is on their track.
BTW: If you enjoyed this story, Michelle Harrison has also written a short story featuring Gypsy and Piper in another book called 'Winter Magic,' full of stories by award winning authors. She also wrote the 13 Treasures trilogy and 'One Wish,' which are all soooooo good!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2021
I might post a longer review later but I absolutely loved it! It's one of the most creative middle grade books I've ever read and there's so much love for stories and the written word in there, it was truly wonderful. And also, where was Michelle Harrison and her books when I was growing up? I'd truly appreciate a story like this back then, and I highly recommend it!
July 28, 2017
It's beautiful in it's writing style as I always expect from Michelle but I'm struggling majorly with anything with even the faintest whiff of fantasy about it of late no matter how good it is. Setting aside for now.
June 29, 2016
Book review is here: http://www.mrripleysenchantedbooks.co...
July 14, 2019
Definitely a book I will always come back to!
July 2, 2016
Fascinating, complex and beautifully told, The Other Alice took my breath away. Wonderful!
July 31, 2016
This book is everything I ever wished for dreams to be as a child. It's magical and wonderful and I'm extra happy that I bought a copy for my niece. I can't wait to share it with her!
February 6, 2017
If I am to tell the truth, I must say the other Alice was a gripping, heart breaking book which really made me feel for Midge, Piper and Gypsy. Unlike most books, we, as a reader, were able to understand the characters as if we were them. There were times when I felt sad and sorry for the characters like when Gpsy found she was not a real human and when they all disappeared into the story but they were times when I just could not stop smiling like when... the reason I chose not to finish this sentence is because even in the happiest of parts, it was convoluted with a tint of sadness in any kind of way. I guess the only happy moments in this book where no mention of Dorothy or ramblebrook for instance were put in, were all in the beginning, like when Alice's time with Ramone was described and all the other happy moments before Alice disappeared... but still, what kept me on was the fact that Michelle Harrison, Arthur of this bookt did not just leave a sentence or paragraph on complete happiness, apart from the final chapter of course... there was always at least that one word or phrase that told me to keep on reading. Normally, and probably for most people, they usually they read a thick fat novel in at minimum two days, depending on how fast you read, well I do and I normally read more of the book after there is a section of complete happiness, not much of a dilemma, and the main characters settled down, but guess what happened... there were none... so I finished it in one day. I will mention mention scenes from the book itself in the next bit so try to read the book yourself. I, and some other readers of this book loved it though I am sorry to say there is one disappointment and Im not going to brag on about it so don't worry... why did this have to be a one book series, I would like more, and that's the only problem, I wish a movie could be made, that would be epic... over all, I would count it in my top three. We all loved this book and knew that it points out to writing clearly, there's three writers so that's a bit obvious. Despite my issue, I would count this five stars and reccomend this to anyone. Tell me what you think on the comments below
October 17, 2022
OThis is definitely top 3 of all the books I read this year its so heartwarming and great and the twist? It's like I saw it coming but I didn't really understand like they gave hints of the cat but I definitely did not think that it would be Dorothy grimes pet and to be honest I honestly thought dolly and Dorothy grimes were the same person buy I really truly loved how it all played out and I was like really uh oh when they killed Alice and everyone started well word dying I guess and all in all it was just such a incredible story that definitely deserves so much more recognition and its one of those books that you really sincerely can't put down and after you read it and while you're reading it you're like oh no what going to happen, how Is this story going? As well as like at least for me after reading this book I was like what did I just read. It is so incredibly written from the plot to I guess in the end loving every single character except for the cat. What I did think gave it away for me that the cat was well the worse thing that ever happened was thr synopsis when it said piper, gyspy and midge will need to save the day and in my head I was like how about the cat? Where does the cat come in? And I also loved so much how everything tied together so nicely and there is no other way I think that is more perfect in terms of like ending the book.
My only question Is like how did the curse lift? Like whatt? But either ways, loved the book and I don't think I will and have ever read a better fantasy book at least for a one off and I think it was just so well written and I think piper is my favourite character just because of how much he loves gyspy and how like through the story you really get to see how nice of a person he actually Is and i really just loved the book solid 5 stars
Also I forgot to add my thoughts on dolly like girlie really screams joker but make it a teen girl serial killer vibes and oh my god I have never loved or been more terrified of a villain before just because of how horribly and smart she is. I think out of the entire book she is definitely the most memorable but so are all the characters and the book in general
My only question Is like how did the curse lift? Like whatt? But either ways, loved the book and I don't think I will and have ever read a better fantasy book at least for a one off and I think it was just so well written and I think piper is my favourite character just because of how much he loves gyspy and how like through the story you really get to see how nice of a person he actually Is and i really just loved the book solid 5 stars
Also I forgot to add my thoughts on dolly like girlie really screams joker but make it a teen girl serial killer vibes and oh my god I have never loved or been more terrified of a villain before just because of how horribly and smart she is. I think out of the entire book she is definitely the most memorable but so are all the characters and the book in general
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2017
3.5 stars
Inkheart is the children's book that many know for characters coming out of or into stories. This novel uses a similar idea, another dark theme, and weaves a tale of a storyteller into that of her characters. More recently Jodi Picoult and Samantha Van Meer have quite successfully created a book about a girl and a storybook prince falling in love and meeting - Between the Lines - so it's an idea that is quite popular with young people.
Midge's older sister Alice is a natural and gifted writer and teller of stories. One day, she disappears... but Midge sees her - though he knows it is not his sister. Then he meets other people that he knows are actually characters from her stories. And not all of them are the heroes...
There are themes of family, sibling love, friendship, abandonment, magic and the power of words here. It's an enjoyable tale, though didn't feel wholly original. One particular scene, a standoff between the good guys and the bad - the villain very clumsily gave us all the details of their nefarious schemes In a very obvious exposition to quickly show us what had happened.
I liked Midge, the brother; and Gypsy and Piper, though it was their story I'd want to follow back into the book. The villain felt a bit overdone to me, a bit of a stereotype.
There was a good line I liked that conveyed a pithy idea of how a character might feel about being created:
"All our lives are on these pages. Our private thoughts, our secrets. Things no-one should have to share, but they're here for whoever reads them to see."
I really liked that perspective. It wasn't followed up on in much detail in the book, and I hope there is a sequel that focuses on Gypsy and Piper and again interacts with the 'real' world.
All in all, I loved the theme, thought that the story moved along well, there were excellent characters to be used but that there were a few clunky moments and some scenes/themes that could have been fleshed out more. It would make a good film for children.
One for ages 9-13.
Inkheart is the children's book that many know for characters coming out of or into stories. This novel uses a similar idea, another dark theme, and weaves a tale of a storyteller into that of her characters. More recently Jodi Picoult and Samantha Van Meer have quite successfully created a book about a girl and a storybook prince falling in love and meeting - Between the Lines - so it's an idea that is quite popular with young people.
Midge's older sister Alice is a natural and gifted writer and teller of stories. One day, she disappears... but Midge sees her - though he knows it is not his sister. Then he meets other people that he knows are actually characters from her stories. And not all of them are the heroes...
There are themes of family, sibling love, friendship, abandonment, magic and the power of words here. It's an enjoyable tale, though didn't feel wholly original. One particular scene, a standoff between the good guys and the bad - the villain very clumsily gave us all the details of their nefarious schemes In a very obvious exposition to quickly show us what had happened.
I liked Midge, the brother; and Gypsy and Piper, though it was their story I'd want to follow back into the book. The villain felt a bit overdone to me, a bit of a stereotype.
There was a good line I liked that conveyed a pithy idea of how a character might feel about being created:
"All our lives are on these pages. Our private thoughts, our secrets. Things no-one should have to share, but they're here for whoever reads them to see."
I really liked that perspective. It wasn't followed up on in much detail in the book, and I hope there is a sequel that focuses on Gypsy and Piper and again interacts with the 'real' world.
All in all, I loved the theme, thought that the story moved along well, there were excellent characters to be used but that there were a few clunky moments and some scenes/themes that could have been fleshed out more. It would make a good film for children.
One for ages 9-13.
July 21, 2018
I have no words to describe this book, this has taken me 1 day to read and I wish there was more of it, I am in awe at the way Michelle Harrison writes her novels she deserves a gold medal for this. I could not put it down it was intriguing from the very start and didn’t want it to end. I have a few others of her books and they are equally amazing as this is honestly if I could write like that I’d be writing books left right and centre!! This is one of the best books I’ve read this year, she definitely knows how to create tension and blow away the reader. It is brilliantly written with many hints and tricks along the way about the conclusion the main character is beautifully presented and there is a lot of detail to leave images in your head, she created this so well. She has an amazing imagination because the book contains many other stories involved with the plot and they were so creative and she should cherish that talent. This is no ordinarily written book, it’s magical and ambitious,creative and mind blowing if I could I’d give this book 10 stars I recommend for any age group young or old because it has the potential to be an adults read instead of a teens fiction. Michelle Harrison you are officially my favourite author because there is not a bad word to say about this book!!!!!!!!
August 7, 2022
Ever since I first read Inkheart, I have always been a fan of books where the author of a story gets to meet their creations. It would be cool to travel into your own story and meet your characters or have them come out in your own world. In Alice's case, it's not everything I would hope it would be. I wouldn't want to meet some of the villains I have created over the years.
I won't get into how Alice's characters start traveling into our world, but it was such a neat idea. This book was so entertaining from the beginning until the end. I want to read the book within this story so much, especially to see more of Alice's characters.
It was great that this story was told from someone else's perspective other than Alice. Midge was a great protagonist in this story, and I liked following him as he tried to find his sister. This story had so many elements that I love in fantasy, talking cats, witches, great villains, a curse, and mysterious aspects.
Overall, I really loved this book quite a bit and cannot wait to read more from Michelle Harrison sometime.
I won't get into how Alice's characters start traveling into our world, but it was such a neat idea. This book was so entertaining from the beginning until the end. I want to read the book within this story so much, especially to see more of Alice's characters.
It was great that this story was told from someone else's perspective other than Alice. Midge was a great protagonist in this story, and I liked following him as he tried to find his sister. This story had so many elements that I love in fantasy, talking cats, witches, great villains, a curse, and mysterious aspects.
Overall, I really loved this book quite a bit and cannot wait to read more from Michelle Harrison sometime.
August 23, 2021
Wow. Just wow. I’m a sucker for stories with a witchy, magicky theme and so I adore Michelle Harrison’s Pinch of Magic series and Midnight Magic (waiting impatiently for #2) so couldn’t wait to get stuck into this - The Other Alice. Now I’m done I have no idea why I waited so long. This is the cleverest kids’ book I’ve read in a long time - it has enough plot twists to keep older kids glued to the pages, enough gorgeous characters, magic and mayhem to keep the younger ones amused and enough of a gloriously bookish storyline that adults who love books are bound to love it too. I am particularly fond of Tabitha, the talking cat, obvs 🙄 But also… ‘I will end this tale by saying that stories… have the power to harm… But stories have the power to heal, too.’ Michelle Harrison, I simply adore your stories. Few kids’ books immerse me in the way yours do. Please, never stop creating magic and readers along the way ❤️
July 14, 2017
I have always believed that stories are magic, and this is truly a magical story.
The other Alice had me captivated from the get go ´cause I really believe that no matter the age, even if it's supposed to be a children´s book, all of us who like stories and have ever tried our hand at writing one, can relate to.
I liked all of the characters and even the villain! I thought a pretty good one!
But what I liked the most I think was the over all message about creating our own monster and therefore being able to overcome them.
The other Alice had me captivated from the get go ´cause I really believe that no matter the age, even if it's supposed to be a children´s book, all of us who like stories and have ever tried our hand at writing one, can relate to.
I liked all of the characters and even the villain! I thought a pretty good one!
But what I liked the most I think was the over all message about creating our own monster and therefore being able to overcome them.
October 10, 2017
Alice writes wonderful stories that her little brother Midge loves to listen to. But she bears a curse that means she must finish every single one of her stories, no matter how silly the ending. When she tries to write a novel she gets stuck and being unable to finish ends up bringing the characters to life, including some who are very dangerous.
Despite the dangers, I found myself wanting to live in one of Alice's worlds. She makes any simple thing seem magical where it would normally seem boring. I really enjoyed this book and I'm a big fan of Michelle Harrison's other books too.
Despite the dangers, I found myself wanting to live in one of Alice's worlds. She makes any simple thing seem magical where it would normally seem boring. I really enjoyed this book and I'm a big fan of Michelle Harrison's other books too.
August 20, 2017
3.5 stars. I usually don't like when books are described as "cross between" but I'm going to make an exception for once.
This book felt like very weird cross between Inkheart, The Book of Story Beginnings and Alice in Wonderland, while touched upon other fairy tales like Sleeping Beauty.
There were aspects of the story I didn't connect with and some were incomplete I thought, but it was still an intriguing read.
This book felt like very weird cross between Inkheart, The Book of Story Beginnings and Alice in Wonderland, while touched upon other fairy tales like Sleeping Beauty.
There were aspects of the story I didn't connect with and some were incomplete I thought, but it was still an intriguing read.
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