In Afia in the Land of Wonders by Mia Araujo, sixteen-year-old Afia leaves her beloved twin and family to travel to a mysterious land in search of adventure. Afia has always felt out of place, as if she were only half a person because she has a twin sister, Aya. Unlike Afia, who is a daydreamer eager to explore life beyond their small village of Dafra, Aya is content to follow their family’s expectations.
Afia’s longing for adventure comes true when she crosses paths with a shape-shifter named Bakame. Bakame tells her about a magical place called Ijábù. Intrigued by the wonders he describes, Afia resolves not to let her parents dictate her destiny. Although afraid, she decides the risk is worth leaving everything she knows behind including her beloved sister.
She follows Bakame into the forbidden forest, a place rumored to swallow travelers whole, never to return. Along the way to Ijábù, Afia witnesses many mystical sights and senses something shadowy pursuing her. When she finally arrives, she meets the enchanting Queen, who is both beautiful and mysterious. At first, Ijábù seems to be everything Afia ever dreamed of but she soon discovers that not everything is as it seems, and her dreams may come at a terrible cost.
I found the book to be an interesting retelling of Alice in Wonderland. It includes many playful references to the original while adding its own unique spin. I especially enjoyed the illustrations, which were filled with gorgeous artwork, and I liked seeing how Afia grew and learned to follow her own voice. However, I didn’t enjoy the ending; it felt abrupt, and I was unclear about how much time had passed or whether Afia truly achieved what she wanted. While the book is geared toward middle-grade readers, I found some parts rather gruesome and possibly unsuitable for younger audiences. Overall, I would be open to reading more books by this author.
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