Book Club Selection - "Alice I Have Been"

Welcome to the first Jumping Monkey’s Book Club Selection! Through the next four weeks we will read and discuss the new fictionalized biography by Melanie Benjamin, “Alice I Have Been.”

from Publishers Weekly:

Benjamin draws on one of the most enduring relationships in children's literature in her excellent debut, spinning out the heartbreaking story of Alice from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. Her research into the lives of Charles Dodgson (aka Lewis Carroll) and the family of Alice Liddell is apparent as she takes circumstances shrouded in mystery and colors in the spaces to reveal a vibrant and passionate Alice. Born into a Victorian family of privilege, free-spirited Alice catches the attention of family friend Dodgson and serves as the muse for both his photography and writing. Their bond, however, is misunderstood by Alice's family, and though she is forced to sever their friendship, she is forever haunted by their connection as her life becomes something of a chain of heartbreaks. As an adult, Alice tries to escape her past, but it is only when she finally embraces it that she truly finds the happiness that eluded her. Focusing on three eras in Alice's life, Benjamin offers a finely wrought portrait of Alice that seamlessly blends fact with fiction. This is book club gold.

Alice Liddell as a young girl, a young woman, and in her 80's touring America

Be sure to submit your questions as we read the novel, as Jumping Monkeys may be in contact with author Melanie Benjamin! At the end of the April, if I can figure out how to set it up - we’ll attempt an online chat, hopefully with Ms. Benjamin herself!

So pick up your copy today! You can find it your local library, or at any number of booksellers. Some price comparisons are below...

Amazon.com - $16.50 + free super saver shipping; or used and new from $13.94

Borders.com - $22.50 *borders rewards members have exclusive discounts

Barnes & Noble - $18.00 + “fast and free” delivery

Local Library - FREE!

Jump into a good book and join us for “Alice I Have Been” this month!