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Writer's pictureKaren Hunter

English reading practice - Down the Rabbit Hole (C1/C2 Advanced)

Have you ever wished to escape reality and plunge headfirst into a world of enchantment and absurdity? If so, Lewis Carroll's timeless classic, "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," is the rabbit hole you've been waiting to tumble down. Published in 1865, this whimsical tale has captivated readers for generations with its eccentric characters, surreal landscapes, and unforgettable quotes.


The story commences with young Alice, a curious and precocious girl who finds herself bored on a warm summer's day. Her mundane world takes a fantastical turn when she stumbles upon a peculiar white rabbit muttering about being late. Unable to resist the allure of the rabbit hole, Alice follows him, unknowingly embarking on a journey that defies logic and reason.


As Alice descends into Wonderland, readers are transported into a realm where nothing is as it seems. The Cheshire Cat grins mischievously, the Mad Hatter hosts an eternal tea party, and the Queen of Hearts rules with a fervour for decapitation. Carroll's vivid imagination and clever wordplay create a tapestry of characters that challenge conventional thinking and leave readers questioning the nature of reality.



One of the enduring charms of "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" lies in its memorable and thought-provoking quotes. Carroll's whimsical prose is sprinkled with nuggets of wisdom and absurdity that continue to resonate with readers today.

"We're all mad here." - Cheshire Cat

"Why, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast." - White Queen

These quotes not only contribute to the charm of the narrative but also encourage readers to embrace their curiosity and challenge their perceptions of the world.


The beauty of Wonderland lies in its infinite possibilities and the freedom it gives to explore the limits of imagination. Carroll's storytelling is a delightful blend of fantasy, satire, and social commentary. From the absurd conversations at the tea party to the nonsensical trials in the Queen's court, each chapter unravels new layers of whimsy, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next twist and turn.


If you haven't taken a trip to Wonderland yet, it's high time you did. Lewis Carroll's masterpiece is not just a children's story; it's a timeless journey that transcends age, inviting readers of all backgrounds to revel in the joy of imagination and embrace the madness that lies within us all. With its eccentric characters, fantastical settings, and profound quotes, "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" promises an escape into a world where the impossible becomes possible, and the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary.


So, dear reader, grab a copy of this classic, follow Alice down the rabbit hole, and let your imagination soar to new heights. Wonderland awaits, and who knows what curious adventures you might discover along the way!


Check your understanding

  1. What is the catalyst that propels Alice into Wonderland, and how does it set the stage for the whimsical journey that follows?

  2. Share one memorable quote from "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland".

  3. How does Lewis Carroll's use of wordplay and clever language contribute to the charm of the narrative, and why are these elements considered timeless?

  4. Describe the type of characters Alice encounters in Wonderland, highlighting the eccentricity and uniqueness of each. How do these characters challenge conventional thinking?

  5. Why is "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" not just a children's story, and what aspects of the narrative make it a timeless journey for readers of all ages?


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Vocabulary
  1. Precocious: Having developed abilities or maturity at an earlier age than usual.

  2. Tapestry: A fabric consisting of a warp upon which coloured threads are woven by hand to produce a design.

  3. Wordplay: The clever and humorous use of words, often involving puns, double entendres, or other linguistic devices.

  4. Satire: The use of humour, irony, or exaggeration to criticise or mock people, society, or politics.

  5. Transcends: To go beyond the limits or scope of something.


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