Book review: “Alice’s Oxford – People and Places that Inspired Wonderland”
On July 4th (not coincidentally, on ‘Alice’s Day’), a new book about Oxford connections to Lewis Carroll’s ‘Alice’ books will come out.
I am grateful to the publisher, Bodleian Library Publishing, for sending me a review copy so I can give you my honest opinion about this book by Peter Hunt!
According to the press release, the author of this book “combines historical insight with a guided tour of the city, revealing both well-known and lesser-known connections to the Alice books. From the hatters and marmalade makers on the High Street to the dodo displayed at the Museum of Natural History, Oxford’s streets, colleges, and landmark are woven into the fabric of Wonderland. […] The result is a unique blend of travel guide, history, and local culture – perfect for both Alice enthusiasts and those curious about Oxford’s rich literary heritage.”
The author tells us that “[m]any books about the ‘Alice’ books begin with the texts and extrapolate from them possible references to places and people in the real world; this book begins with the places, and traces their association with Dodgson, Carroll and both the Alices – real and fictional.”
