Alice's Adventures Under Ground: The Original Manuscript

In 1862, Reverend Charles Lutwidge Dodgson told a tale about Alice to entertain three young sisters on a boating trip. Two years later, he wrote it down and gave it to her as an early Christmas gift. This revised and illustrated story by Dodgson became one of the most famous and best-loved children's books of all time, published as Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. However, the original tale, Alice's Adventures Under Ground, remains less well-known. This facsimile edition of Dodgson's manuscript, now one of the British Library's most treasured possessions, allows modern readers to enjoy the expressive story as it was first told.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 14 March 2019
Publisher: British Library Publishing

On a serene and golden afternoon in the enchanting city of Oxford, in the summer of 1862, the Reverend Charles Lutwidge Dodgson embarked on a delightful boating excursion alongside three young sisters, Lorina, Alice, and Edith. To keep the children entertained and engaged during the journey, Dodgson began weaving a captivating tale about an inquisitive and adventurous young girl named Alice, and her thrilling escapades in a mysterious and wondrous underground world.

Two years later, driven by the heroine Alice Liddell's insistent pleas, Dodgson committed the tale to paper and presented it to her as a cherished early Christmas gift. The story, later revised and beautifully illustrated by the talented John Tenniel, would transcend time and become one of the most celebrated and beloved children's books of all time, known as Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, penned under the pen name Lewis Carroll.

Yet, the original tale, Alice's Adventures Under Ground, remains somewhat lesser known to modern readers. In this magnificent facsimile edition of Dodgson's manuscript, now considered one of the British Library's most prized possessions, accompanied by insightful commentary by former British Library curator Sally Brown, contemporary readers can relish the expressive narrative as it was originally told.

The manuscript, meticulously preserved and meticulously reproduced, offers a glimpse into the creative process of Dodgson, a man with a profound love for both children and literature. His words dance with imagination and charm, transporting readers into a realm where logic takes a backseat and dreams flourish.

Through this facsimile edition, we gain a deeper appreciation for the origins of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, shedding light on the influences and inspirations that shaped the beloved story. We witness Dodgson's playful and imaginative spirit, his ability to create vivid characters and intricate plotlines, and his unwavering commitment to entertaining and educating young minds.

Moreover, Sally Brown's commentary provides valuable insights and anecdotes, shedding light on the historical context and cultural significance of the tale. She delves into Dodgson's personal life, his relationships with the Liddell family, and the societal changes that influenced his writing.

In conclusion, this facsimile edition of Dodgson's manuscript, accompanied by Sally Brown's insightful commentary, presents a remarkable opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. It allows readers to experience the story as it was first told, capturing the essence of Dodgson's creativity and the timeless appeal of his masterpiece. Whether you are a seasoned reader or a newcomer to the enchanting realm of Lewis Carroll's imagination, this edition is a treasure trove of wonder and discovery.

Weight: 342g
Dimension: 194 x 140 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780712352437