Audiobook Sample

Listen to the sample to experience the story.

Please wait while we verify your browser...

  • Title: Alice in Blunderland: an Iridescent Dream
  • Author: John Kendrick Bands
  • Narrator: Lars Rolander
  • Length: 0.081944444
  • Version: Abridged
  • Release Date: 01-Jan
  • Publisher: LibriVox
  • Genre: Comedy, Satire & Parody
  • ISBN13: SABFAB9780606

Dear fellow adventurers in the world of stories,

Sometimes, a story takes you by surprise—not because it sweeps you off your feet with grandeur, but because it nudges you, wittily and slyly, into examining the absurdities of our own world. That’s exactly what John Kendrick Bangs’ *Alice in Blunderland: An Iridescent Dream* does. With Lars Rolander’s narration breathing whimsical energy into this satire, it’s an audiobook experience that feels both timely and timeless.

The first time I listened to this audiobook, I was on a late-night train ride through Portugal. The rhythmic clatter of the train’s wheels seemed to echo Alice’s bewildered footsteps as she wandered deeper into the topsy-turvy world of Blunderland. Much like my own travels, where the unexpected often becomes the norm, Blunderland is a land where nothing is quite as it should be—a poignant reflection of societal and political absurdities that still resonate today.

Bangs takes the iconic Alice from Lewis Carroll’s *Alice in Wonderland* and immerses her in a world that feels eerily familiar yet delightfully skewed. Blunderland isn’t just another fantastical realm; it’s a biting parody of city politics, rife with bureaucratic lunacy and social critique. As Alice meets familiar characters like the Mad Hatter and the Cheshire Cat, they take on new roles that mirror the hypocrisies and inefficiencies of urban governance. It reminded me of the time I got lost in the labyrinthine streets of Marrakech, where every turn felt like a riddle, and every shopkeeper had a story to spin—only in Blunderland, the stories are hilariously subversive.

The humor in Bangs’ writing is sharp but never heavy-handed. It’s the kind of satire that makes you chuckle, then pause to think. For instance, a scene where Alice encounters a municipal meeting in Blunderland felt strikingly modern, as if Bangs had somehow predicted today’s endless debates and red tape. The wit is layered, making it a joy for both casual listeners and those who enjoy dissecting social commentary.

An audiobook lives or dies by its narrator, and Lars Rolander delivers a performance that elevates Bangs’ text. His voice dances effortlessly between characters, capturing their eccentricities and quirks with a charm that feels almost theatrical. Listening to Rolander, I was transported back to evenings in Oaxaca, where the family I stayed with would gather to hear their grandmother tell stories. Her voice, much like Rolander’s, carried the weight of the narrative, weaving humor and wisdom into every word.

Rolander’s pacing is impeccable, allowing the humor to land without losing the rhythm of the story. His rendition of the Cheshire Cat, in particular, stands out—a sly, almost conspiratorial tone that makes you feel like you’re in on the joke. The audio quality is crisp, with just the right balance of clarity and warmth, making it an immersive listening experience.

One of the strengths of *Alice in Blunderland* lies in its ability to balance whimsy with critique. Bangs’ writing is clever, and Rolander’s narration brings out its full potential. However, the book’s satire, rooted in the early 20th century, may not fully resonate with all modern listeners. Some references to city politics and societal norms of the time might feel dated, requiring a bit of historical context to fully appreciate.

Additionally, the brevity of the audiobook (just under two hours) leaves you wanting more. While it’s a delightful listen, it feels more like a tantalizing appetizer than a full-course meal. Yet, perhaps that’s part of its charm—it invites you to revisit and relisten, catching nuances you might have missed the first time.

If you’re a fan of satirical works like George Orwell’s *Animal Farm* or Jonathan Swift’s *A Modest Proposal*, *Alice in Blunderland* will be right up your alley. Bangs’ humor is less biting but equally incisive, offering a lighter yet thought-provoking take on societal critique. For those who enjoy parodies of classic tales, this audiobook pairs beautifully with titles like Gregory Maguire’s *Wicked* or Jasper Fforde’s *The Eyre Affair*.

Listening to *Alice in Blunderland: An Iridescent Dream* felt like wandering through a funhouse mirror version of our world—a place where laughter and insight go hand in hand. It’s a reminder that the absurdities we face daily are often best confronted with humor and wit. And isn’t that what good satire is all about?

As I finished the audiobook, the train I was on pulled into a quiet station, its lights reflecting off the cobblestone streets outside. The surreal, dreamlike quality of that moment mirrored the essence of Blunderland—a world that feels both strange and familiar, challenging and comforting.

I wholeheartedly recommend this audiobook to anyone who loves a good laugh with a side of social critique. Whether you’re a fan of Lewis Carroll’s original or just someone looking for a whimsical escape, *Alice in Blunderland* is a journey worth taking.

Warm regards,
Marcus Rivera