A Whole New World - Book Review

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A Whole New World by Liz Braswell reimagines the classic story of Aladdin with a compelling, darker twist. Part of Disney's Twisted Tales series, the novel explores a scenario in which Jafar, not Aladdin, obtains the magic lamp and uses its power for his own ruthless ambitions. In this altered tale, Aladdin and Jasmine must navigate a world where their choices are limited, their safety is constantly threatened, and they must join a rebellion to stand against Jafar’s tyrannical rule. By expanding on Aladdin’s familiar world, Braswell infuses it with themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the fight for justice, while also adding psychological depth to its characters.

The book begins in a familiar setting, recounting the well-known story of Aladdin’s early encounters with Jasmine, the escape from the marketplace, and his discovery of the Cave of Wonders. However, the pivotal change comes when Jafar steals the magic lamp from Aladdin, turning the tide of fate against the hero and plunging Agrabah into darkness. With the genie’s power now in his possession, Jafar immediately begins executing a calculated and brutal takeover, setting up a dictatorship with himself as an all-powerful ruler.

This shift in the plot creates a darker, more complex atmosphere than the original tale. Jafar’s rise to power is depicted with a level of intensity and cruelty that underscores the high stakes faced by the protagonists. The narrative focuses on the struggles and challenges that Aladdin and Jasmine must confront to restore freedom to Agrabah, transforming a classic adventure into a story of rebellion, sacrifice, and resistance.

In A Whole New World, Aladdin’s character is given greater depth and maturity. While still a “diamond in the rough,” Aladdin undergoes a transformative journey as he faces both internal and external battles. With Jafar’s takeover, he finds himself in a world where his quick wit and resourcefulness are no longer sufficient for survival. The loss of the lamp forces him to rely not on magical solutions but on his own courage and resilience. This shift allows Aladdin to develop from a street-smart survivor into a determined leader who is willing to risk everything for Agrabah’s freedom.

Aladdin’s relationship with Jasmine is also explored more deeply in this retelling. As they work together to fight against Jafar’s oppressive regime, they learn to trust and rely on one another, forming a bond that goes beyond mere romance. Their shared experiences in the rebellion create a partnership based on mutual respect and shared goals, highlighting the strength they draw from one another. This portrayal adds layers to Aladdin’s character, making him more than just a charming trickster; he becomes a hero with a genuine desire to protect those he cares about and fight for a cause larger than himself.



Jasmine, traditionally portrayed as a headstrong yet sheltered princess, takes on a more active role in A Whole New World. Faced with the reality of Jafar’s rule, she transforms from a figure confined by palace walls to a symbol of hope and resistance. Braswell’s version of Jasmine is not content to be rescued or protected; instead, she becomes an integral part of the rebellion, demonstrating resilience, courage, and leadership.

Her journey toward empowerment is portrayed as both inspiring and realistic. Jasmine is forced to confront the brutal consequences of Jafar’s rule, witnessing first-hand the suffering of her people and the destruction of her kingdom. This exposure strengthens her resolve, fuelling her desire to bring justice and peace back to Agrabah. Jasmine’s evolution into a warrior and a leader reflects the novel’s focus on agency and self-determination, as she actively shapes her destiny rather than waiting for a hero to save her.

Braswell uses Jasmine’s character to explore themes of privilege and responsibility. Having grown up in a palace, Jasmine is initially unaware of the full extent of her people’s suffering. Her journey opens her eyes to the realities outside the palace walls, leading her to embrace her role as a leader who must serve and protect her people. This internal conflict between privilege and duty adds complexity to Jasmine’s character, making her growth both compelling and relatable.

In this retelling, Jafar is more than just a power-hungry sorcerer; he becomes a deeply sinister figure who uses psychological manipulation and fear to maintain control over Agrabah. With the genie at his disposal, Jafar imposes his vision of a perfect kingdom, which includes ruthlessly crushing dissent and enforcing strict laws that oppress the citizens. His rule is characterized by fear, manipulation, and calculated cruelty, transforming Agrabah from a vibrant city into a place of oppression and despair.

Jafar’s motivations are explored in greater depth than in the original story, making him a complex antagonist whose actions have tangible consequences. His rule is not merely a result of magical power but a deliberate choice to impose his will on others, reflecting the dangers of unchecked authority. This portrayal of Jafar as both a political tyrant and a psychological manipulator heightens the novel’s tension and adds a sense of urgency to Aladdin and Jasmine’s mission to stop him.

Braswell’s depiction of Jafar emphasizes the psychological toll of living under tyranny. The citizens of Agrabah are forced into submission, their spirits crushed by fear and despair. This environment allows the author to explore the impact of authoritarian rule on individuals and communities, adding a realistic and unsettling dimension to the story. Jafar’s actions also serve as a reminder of the importance of resistance, as Aladdin, Jasmine, and their allies struggle to hold onto hope in the face of overwhelming darkness.

A Whole New World is grounded in themes of resistance and sacrifice, exploring what it takes to stand up against oppression. Aladdin, Jasmine, and the other rebels are ordinary people who must summon extraordinary courage to fight for their freedom. Their journey is filled with moments of doubt, fear, and loss, but their determination to resist Jafar’s rule becomes a source of hope for themselves and the people of Agrabah.

The novel’s emphasis on sacrifice underscores the cost of fighting for justice. Braswell does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of rebellion, showing that the fight for freedom often comes with a heavy price. Characters are forced to make difficult choices, risking their lives and enduring hardships in their pursuit of a better world. This theme of sacrifice adds emotional weight to the story, highlighting the courage and resilience required to stand against tyranny.

The novel also explores the idea of hope as a powerful force. Despite the darkness that surrounds them, Aladdin and Jasmine refuse to give up, finding strength in their shared vision of a free Agrabah. Their determination serves as an inspiration to those around them, demonstrating that even in the face of overwhelming odds, hope can be a powerful weapon. This message of hope is central to the novel, offering a reminder that change is possible, even in the darkest of times.

Braswell’s portrayal of Agrabah in A Whole New World is grittier and more realistic than the animated version. Under Jafar’s rule, the city becomes a place of fear and despair, with citizens living in poverty and oppression. The vivid descriptions of Agrabah’s transformation emphasize the impact of Jafar’s rule, creating a sense of urgency and tension that propels the story forward.

This darker setting also serves to highlight the bravery of the rebels, as they navigate a world filled with danger and uncertainty. The harsh conditions of Agrabah add depth to the narrative, making the stakes feel real and immediate. Braswell’s depiction of Agrabah as a place of struggle and resilience enhances the story’s emotional impact, underscoring the importance of the characters’ fight for freedom.

A Whole New World is a compelling and thought-provoking retelling of Aladdin that goes beyond the familiar storyline to explore deeper themes and character arcs. By shifting the focus from a magical adventure to a story of resistance and resilience, Braswell transforms a classic tale into a powerful narrative about the fight for justice and the importance of self-determination.

The novel’s darker tone and complex characters make it a standout addition to the Twisted Tales series, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved story. Aladdin and Jasmine’s journey toward heroism and leadership is inspiring, while Jafar’s portrayal as a ruthless tyrant adds a sense of danger and urgency. Braswell’s exploration of themes like sacrifice, hope, and the cost of freedom resonates deeply, making A Whole New World a must-read for fans of Aladdin and anyone interested in stories that challenge traditional narratives.

In this reimagined Agrabah, the fight for freedom is as much a battle of the mind and heart as it is a physical struggle. A Whole New World reminds readers that true heroism lies not in magical powers but in the courage to stand up for what is right, even when the odds seem insurmountable. Through Aladdin and Jasmine’s journey, Braswell crafts a tale that is both timeless and timely, offering a powerful message about resilience, hope, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

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