There are whimsical books (like Winnie the Pooh), there are silly books (like anything by Dr. Seuss), and then there’s Lewis Carroll. He really is in a class by himself. Part dream, part reality, all nonsense.
Out of the two, I liked Looking Glass better. It seemed it made more sense, or at least the nonsense was less, well, nonsensical. I was often annoyed by Alice in the first book — it seemed she was always getting offended or annoyed or crying. But then, I suppose, that would be a natural child’s reacation to being in such strange situations. But Looking Glass was fun. I don’t understand chess, so I didn’t really “get” that part of the book. But the rest was just plain dream-like silliness. I liked the puns (they were very punny), and I liked the poems. Jabberwocky is just fun to read aloud.
I’m sure people have dissected these books and come up with political and hidden and adult meanings to all this. But I think it’s fine as it is, even if I didn’t understand half of what was going on.
Three down for the classics challenge.
The Book Nut 
I just read both these books myself and enjoyed them! Like you say, the puns and the poems are just brilliant! Also, I loved all the cranky characters in the book and their conversations with Alice. Sheer, inspired nonsense! 🙂
LikeLike
These were some of my dad’s favorite books. For some reason or another I’ve never read them. Many of the characters (even the disney-fied ones) used to scare me as a child. Perhaps now they won’t.
And I agree- sometimes it’s nice to just read something for what it is, nonsense and all, without dissecting it to bits and pieces.
LikeLike
Melissa, I’m glad to hear you liked The Looking Glass better. I’m still going to read it. I have acquired an appreciation for Carroll’s genius. I was surprised to discover that the 2nd book is based on a chess game. That sounds interesting. I’m going to have my husband briefly explain chess to me. Do you think it will help any?
LikeLike
booklogged — I don’t know if it’ll make a difference if your husband explains chess to you. I don’t know chess very well, and I enjoyed it just fine. There’s a bit of an explanation in front, and instructions on how Alice (the pawn) could win in 11 moves. I didn’t understand that. But it really has nothing to do with the book.
LikeLike