Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass by Lewis Carroll (1946)

Few works of children’s literature have captured the imagination of readers quite like Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass by Lewis Carroll. This attractive 1946 Rainbow Classics edition, published by The World Publishing Company of Cleveland and New York, presents Carroll’s beloved fantasy tales in a beautifully illustrated format featuring the iconic artwork of John Tenniel.

This copy of Alice’s Adventures is the second printing issued in September 1946 and forms part of the highly regarded Rainbow Classics series edited by May Lamberton Becker. The decorative illustrated boards remain vibrant and appealing, displaying many of the memorable characters that have enchanted generations of readers. The original dust jacket survives, an increasingly uncommon feature for juvenile books of this era, although it is in poor condition with substantial wear and loss.

Inside, readers will discover both Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass, the classic Victorian fantasies that introduced unforgettable characters including the White Rabbit, Mad Hatter, Cheshire Cat, Tweedledum and Tweedledee, and the Queen of Hearts. Tenniel’s illustrations remain among the most celebrated images in literary history and continue to define the visual world of Wonderland.

Adding further interest is the inclusion of an accompanying booklet and postcard from Alice’s Shop in Oxford, the famous location associated with Lewis Carroll and Alice Liddell. These items enhance the book’s collectible appeal and provide an attractive connection to the author’s world.

A charming mid-century edition of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland suitable for collectors of Alice, children’s classics, fantasy literature, illustrated books, and vintage juvenile publishing.

Condition – Good

1946 second printing hardcover in original but poor dust jacket. Illustrated cloth boards remain attractive with some fading. Navy cloth spine shows fading at the head and tail, though gilt lettering remains clearly legible. The dust jacket is heavily worn with losses and edge damage. Internally clean and sound overall with a 1948 Christmas gift inscription in ink on the front endpaper and scattered foxing throughout. Includes an Alice’s Shop, Oxford booklet and postcard.