Compare and Contrast Essay

      I read Alice In Wonderland by Lewis Carroll and The Treasure Seekers, by Edith Nesbit. I am going to be discussing the differences and similarities between the two books. They where both very interesting and I highly recommend them.       

     One area the two books showed differences is in the characters. In Alice In Wonderland there is only one main character, Alice who appears to be around the age of twelve. In The Treasure Seekers there are many characters who support each other though out the book. The age ranges between the children in the Treasure Seekers are from about seven to fourteen.

     Another area the books differ is in the problems that occurred and how they where solved. In Alice In Wonderland the problems are caused by the other characters and Alice is required to figure out the solution to dilemma. However, in The Treasure Seekers the main characters caused the problems but later on they where solved with honesty and allowing adults to take over.

     Both books where similar in that they where both written by English authors at the end of the Nineteenth century. Also both books had children as their focus who learn about life through adventure.

     In conclusion, the books similarities and differences revealed the authors styles. This is especially shown in Alice In Wonderland's surrealistic theme and Treasure Seekers being set in reality. Overall, I thought the books where exciting and appeals to children.

     

Its Up To You Nancy Drew

     I am reading Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Caroll. In chapter six the Duchess said,"If everybody minded their own business the World would go round much faster." Alice disagreed with the Duchess. I found myself thinking about both arguments and wondered should people mind their own business or not?    
     There are negatives to getting into peoples business. One such example is prying or meddling, which can also lead to gossip. These negatives fall under the category of social taboos. Usually these taboos will make you end up hurting yourself as well as others. Everyone knows that sniffing out what you are getting for your birthday may be fun in the beginning but will only steal the fun and excitement at the time of your party.
      On the other hand, there are positives to getting into other's business. There have been many news stories about the hero who stepped in and saved the day because they chose to get involved. This action ended in saving a life or protecting another from danger.
     Knowing there are good and bad sides to this coin, I thought, "Is there another example of when we should snoop into other's business?" If you remember, the Duchess stated her opinion on the issue in the beginning of this report. She thought it was best for people to stay out of the way and keep to themselves. I tend to agree but with the exception that she holds an official title in a governing system which makes decisions that effect the public. The Duchess' influential decision making powers sway control in society. This made me think, it is very important to know what political leaders are involved with so I can be informed on how their decisions will effect me. A political figure can withhold information, twist information and say one thing and do another. In order for the population to protect their freedom, full knowledge of the political figures business is a must.
       Since circumstances can differ, a case by case judgement should dictate your involvement in other's business especially in a social situation. In a political situation, one should do what they can to be factually informed especially since their rights may be at stake.  It all comes down to this, it's up to you Nancy Drew, to decide weather getting in peoples business will get you a clue.

The Treasure Seekers

     Dora, Dickey, Oswald, H.O, Noel and Alice Bastable are children who find themselves in a difficult life circumstance after the death of their mother. Their Dad is financially struggling, so they decided to think of ways to try and help their families situation. Dora, the eldest child suggested digging for treasure. Oswald was more dramatic and suggested highway robbery.
     It was interesting to read of the imaginative ways the children thought of and executed their ideas. There were times when the children's character was tested. For instance, Oswald returned six good pennies to the phone lady because Alice gave her a bad sixpence. Oswald needed that money but he did what was right instead.  
     At times the children were able to use their talents in order to help, like when Noel sold his poetry to an editor. They did run into some problems every now and then. Their wine venture turned sour because as children they thought the wine was bitter and added sugar. The adults didn't appreciate their improvements and the venture quickly dissolved.
     Overall, I like the book because it is full of adventure and learning experiences. I admire these children for using what they had and trying despite their age and situation. Reading about their trials makes me more confident in trying to accomplish my own goals.