Banned Books Week 2020, Alice In Wonderland

“Would you like an adventure now, or shall we have tea first?” ~Lewis Carroll, Alice's Adventures In Wonderland

Today’s featured banned book is, you guessed it, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland! This largely coveted and admired children’s book which has been adapted into numerous films and beyond, has been challenged and banned in many schools throughout time. Originally published in the winter of 1865, this book has been banned for the portrayal of animals as humans and the insinuation of disrespecting one’s elders, to get the ball rolling. It was also banned for the portrayal of mental illness, promotion of drug use, and insinuations of adult content.

It is no surprise that Alice in Wonderland was ahead of its time, portraying a tale of excitement and ecstatic themes and storylines. This was a story that was meant to jump out of the box and fill everyone with a sense of wonder and even confusion, which are the same feelings that Alice felt herself throughout the story. Each film adaptation of this story always focuses on a slightly different aspect of the plot, highlighting things from the original novel that may not have made much sense back in the day. Regardless, it is certainly a tale to read and dive into, and I personally think that it is one worth reading. It’s one of those stories that leaves with something new each time you read it.

“It’s no use going back to yesterday, for I was a different person then.”

Thanks for reading!