book review: Wonderland by Stacey D'Erasmo

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The basics: Wonderland is the story of Anna Brundage, a forty-four year old indie rock star who has been out of the public spotlight for seven years. She's on her international comeback tour promoting her latest album, which she had to self-finance. Wonderland unfolds in the present, on tour, as Anna also recollects her first rise and fall in music, as well as her life until now.

 My thoughts: Wonderland is one of those books I wanted to like so much more than I did. The premise is fabulous--a female indie rock star primed for a comeback and traveling across music drinking and playing shows? It's practically tailor-made for me. Yet as I read, I never felt connected to Anna. Worse still--I never particularly cared about her. D'Ersasmo is a gifted writer, and I enjoyed myself as I read, but I kept waiting for something more, and this never fully came together for me. Still, it was a quick read, and I enjoyed the time I spent with it, but I doubt it will stay with me for long.

 The verdict: Despite a premise that immensely appealed to me and strong writing, Wonderland fell flat for me. I wanted more from Anna as a character because so much hinges on her internally and externally.

 Rating: 3 out of 5
Length: 259 pages
Publication date: May 6, 2014
Source: publisher

 Convinced? Treat yourself! Buy Wonderland from an independent bookstore, the Book Depository or Amazon (Kindle edition.)

Want more? Visit Stacey D'Erasmo's website.

As an affiliate, I receive a small commission when you make a purchase through any of the above links. Thank you for helping to support my book habits that bring more content to this blog!

Comments

  1. VasillyMay 14, 2014 at 3:18 PM

    It's too bad that you didn't connect to the main character. I just finished a book and had the same problem.

    ReplyDelete

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