Wondrous Strange succeeds by blending the competitive New York theater scene with a gritty reimagining of Shakespearean folklore. Kelley uses her sharp wit to navigate a dangerous faerie realm hidden within Central Park. Books in this family share urban settings where classic mythology turns dark, atmospheric, and romantic for a cynical protagonist.
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager feels like they are caught between two worlds or is struggling to find a sense of belonging in their everyday environment. It speaks to the teen who feels like an outsider, using the glitter and grit of New York City's theater scene as a backdrop for a journey into self-discovery. The story follows seventeen-year-old Kelley, an actress who discovers that the folklore she performs on stage is actually bleeding into her real life through a hidden gateway in Central Park. This urban fantasy explores the weight of secrets and the bravery required to claim one's true identity. While the plot is fast-paced and magical, the emotional core focuses on finding home within oneself. It is highly appropriate for the 12 to 18 age range, offering a sophisticated blend of romance and danger. Parents might choose it to help a teen explore the idea that the world is more complex than it appears and that their unique perspective is actually a hidden strength.
