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Reading Rockets' children's literature expert, Maria Salvadore, brings you into her world as she explores the best ways to use kids' books both inside — and outside — of the classroom.
Alice in Wonderland - the book that keeps inspiring
This morning I read a review in the Washington Post of Tim Burton's new movie, Alice in Wonderland. And I continue to think about the film — and the book that inspired it.
In Lewis Carroll's book, Alice is bored as she sits by her sister (who is reading a book "without pictures or conversations"). The monotony is relieved when Alice follows a Rabbit in a waistcoat and falls down a rabbit hole for an unforgettable adventure — an adventure that includes meeting a Mad Hatter.
Lots of child — and adult — appeal here. Boredom on a regular-enough-day turned into fantasy and high adventure. The story of Alice and her extraordinary escapades have once again inspired another interpretation.
There have been innumerable versions in book form.
There's a show-stopping pop-up of Alice done by Robert Sabuda (Simon & Schuster), a capable adaptation for newly independent readers by Mallory Loehr (Random), and a dramatically illustrated version by British picture book artist, Alison Jay (Dial). There's even a comic-book version that will be coming out this month by Jamison Odone entitled Alice's Adventures in Wonderland (Stickfiguratively Speaking).
Disney's already done an animated film version. The newly released film, however, seems to update Alice in plot and the way it was created (e.g., the use of computer generated animation and unlikely stars in key rolls such as Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter).
So what's wrong with this picture? Nothing, of course.
But there is a danger that children will miss Lewis Carroll's original (would you believe it was originally written in 1865?) — distinguished by its rich language, ingenious imagination, and intriguing twists. It's an especially satisfying read aloud when coupled with John Tenniel's detailed, expressive, black and white illustrations.
To miss all that...now that would be a shame.
What happened to Disney? Tim Burton's Alice In Wonderland does not compare to the original animation. I remember when I was a child I would watch films like The Jungle Book and 101 Dalmatians and be amazed! Now, Disney has gone downhill and its films seem to be getting worse and worse as time goes by. If you ask me, many kids websites like Disney's should not be listed on the top category of sites like dozen kid. Is it time for us to realize that Disney is not really what it used to be and in fact it now scraping the barrel of entertainment?
Posted by: Anna | March 25, 2010 06:36 AMJust goes to show that it's important to take a hard look at films and videos. Before sharing with children, it's key to evaluate them just like we try to do with books. As you suggest, "name brands" don't always meet our expectations, do they?
Posted by: Maria | April 20, 2010 09:41 AM
Comments
You've inspired me to read the book again - before I see the movie.Thanks
Posted by: Maria Mallon | March 11, 2010 10:03 PM