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Wonderland


Synopsis


A SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER

'Vibrant, fascinating, poetic - a year in living things: all the things we love, all the things we wish we could, all the little things we step over and never know - the best of British wildlife from two superb naturalists and writers' CHRIS PACKHAM

From blackbirds, beavers and beetles to tawny owls, natterjack toads and lemon slugs. Every day of the year, winter or summer, in every corner of the British Isles, there's plenty to see if you know where - and how - to look.

From encounters with the curious black redstart, which winters on our rocky coasts, to the tiny green snowdrop shoots that are the first sign that spring might be round the corner. And from the blossom-time and dawn choruses of April and May into the abundant noisiness of summer, where days start with hawker dragonflies and drowsy bumblebees and end with glow-worms and ghost moths; to autumn when in the early morning mist of London's Richmond Park male red deer lock horns in competition for a mate.

Nature is always full of surprises - whether it's the strange behaviour of clothes moths or the gruesome larder of the strike. Distilling two lifetimes' knowledge, expert insight and enthusiasm, award-winning authors and passionate naturalists Brett Westwood and Stephen Moss take us through the year, day by day, sharing the unexpected delights that we can experience in our skies, beaches, rivers, fields, forests and back gardens. There are all kinds of adventures waiting on your doorstep, any day of the year, all you need is Wonderland.

Brett Westwood, Stephen Moss

Summary

Chapter 1: Down the Rabbit Hole

Alice follows a White Rabbit down a rabbit hole and lands in Wonderland, a strange and whimsical world. She meets a talking mouse and learns about the Red Queen's croquet match.

Example: Imagine a child named Emily tumbling down a slide in a playground and emerging in a land inhabited by oversized Alice in Wonderland characters.

Chapter 2: The Pool of Tears

Alice encounters a pool of tears created by the crying of a gigantic baby. She helps the baby dry its tears and shrinks in size.

Example: Emily comes across a puddle filled with crying children at a daycare. She consoles them with a comforting song, shrinking in confidence as she does so.

Chapter 3: A Caucus-Race and a Long Tale

Alice joins a nonsensical caucus-race with a group of animals. Afterwards, she listens to the tale of a griffin and a mock turtle, learning about time's strange behavior in Wonderland.

Example: Emily participates in a silly obstacle course with her friends, laughing hysterically as the rules change unpredictably. Later, she watches in amazement as her teacher explains an abstract math concept using a story about a mythical creature.

Chapter 4: The Cheshire Cat

Alice meets the Cheshire Cat, who fades away, leaving only its grin behind. The Cat gives her guidance and warnings about the dangers of Wonderland.

Example: Emily receives a mysterious message from an anonymous stranger, guiding her to follow her dreams but cautioning her about potential obstacles.

Chapter 5: Advice from a Caterpillar

Alice encounters a smoking Caterpillar who gives her advice about eating food that makes her grow or shrink. She questions her identity and purpose in Wonderland.

Example: Emily seeks guidance from a wise mentor or therapist who helps her understand her strengths and weaknesses, and to navigate the challenges of growing up.

Chapter 6: Pig and Pepper

Alice attends a tea party with the Mad Hatter, the March Hare, and the Dormouse. The party descends into chaos, and Alice realizes the insanity of Wonderland.

Example: Emily observes a chaotic family gathering where everyone talks over each other, their conversations intermingling like teacups crashing together.

Chapter 7: A Mad Tea Party

Alice tries to escape the tea party, but she is confronted by the Queen of Hearts. The Queen accuses Alice of stealing her tarts and orders her execution.

Example: Emily faces a difficult situation at school, being unfairly blamed for something she didn't do. She feels unjustly accused and overwhelmed by the consequences.

Chapter 8: The Croquet Game

Alice plays a surreal game of croquet with the Queen of Hearts. The game is unfair and rigged, but Alice learns to stand up for herself.

Example: Emily participates in a competitive activity where the rules are biased against her. She protests and eventually finds a way to achieve a fair outcome.

Chapter 9: The Mock Trial

Alice is accused of stealing the Queen's tarts and put on trial. The trial is nonsensical and chaotic, and Alice defies the Queen's authority.

Example: Emily witnesses or experiences an unfair or unjust process, such as a biased court hearing or unfair school disciplinary action. She fights for truth and justice, challenging the established power.

Chapter 10: The Lobster Quadrille

Alice watches a dance between a lobster and a crab, realizing that Wonderland is a place where anything is possible. She accepts the absurdity and embraces the adventure.

Example: Emily experiences a moment of wonder and joy, such as a spontaneous dance party or a breathtaking natural vista. She recognizes the beauty and strangeness of the world and finds contentment in the present moment.