A brace of books

"What is the use of a book," thought Alice, "without pictures or conversations!"

"Alice in Wonderland" was invented by the shy Victorian mathematician, photographer and academic Charles Dodgson during a lazy afternoon punting on the Isis, or so the story goes. The author and artist Brian Talbot has a different opinion and argues that the roots of Alice can be found many years earlier in the north east of England in the town of Sunderland. He presents his argument over the course of a 320 page graphic novel called "Alice in Sunderland" that takes the form of a an evening of entertainment on the stage of the famous 'Sunderland Empire'.

The book covers many things in a discursive monologue that encompasses the early history, myths and legends of the region, local heroes such as Jack Crawford the sailor who famously nailed his colours to the mast in a brutal sea battle, philanthropists, artists and entertainers including George Formby and Sid James who literally died on stage at the Empire. The art also takes many forms and styles, from a "Boy's Own Adventure" pastiche for Crawford's story, a very passable Herge, and of course the famous Tenniel illustrations from 'Alice'.

Talbot draws together the many strands of his story in a most entertaining fashion and conveys some of his obvious passion for Sunderland and its native Makems. Highly recommended.


The second illustrated book that I have read recently is the incomparable Molesworth, which collects the four books by Willans and Searle into one edition. I first read of the exploits of the 'goriller of 3B' more than thirty years ago and they have lost none of their magic in that time. All of the usual suspects are still present and correct including Basil Fotherington-Thomas who is utterly wet and a weed, Molesworth 2 who still pla Fairy Bells on the skool piano, Peason who hav a face like a squished tomato, Grabber who always win the Mrs Joyful prize for rafia work and of corse the curse of St Custards himself Nigel Molesworth. If you have never read these books, then this is the ideal opportunity and a notable bargain at £7.09 from Amazon.