Classics: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland & Through the Looking-Glass

Yep. Up until earlier this year I’d never read Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass by Lewis Carroll. I’d also never seen any of the film adaptations (still haven’t, actually), so apart from some little nuggets of information and a general idea of “Alice” I didn’t even know what the story was about really. To be honest, I’m still not quite sure, but is anyone?

I have to say, I was a little bit underwhelmed by these books, which probably has to do with the fact that I didn’t grow up with the story, and that I read it for the first time at 23. And I must say my expectations might have been a bit too high.

However, the fact that I was underwhelmed doesn’t mean I didn’t like it all. I laughed out loud multiple times, mainly due to the magnificent word play (puns are the best form of humour, and you can quote me on that). That’s what I loved most about these two stories: the way Lewis Carroll manipulated language. It’s absolutely brilliant and kind of magical, really.

What made me go “meh” was the story itself. Of course, it’s a children’s book (and an old one at that), but I wasn’t really invested and felt like it was less about the adventure and more about Carroll showcasing his admittedly extraordinary way with language. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it did make it less enjoyable for me personally. Plus, I just didn’t like Alice, which I guess doesn’t help.

I’m glad to have finally read Alice and I definitely did enjoy it. And now I’ll finally be able to really understand the gazillion references to it everywhere. Huzzah!

What are your thoughts and feelings on Alice? Do you agree with me that it’s a little underwhelming, or do you love it to pieces? Or do you hate it with a fiery passion? Let me know!