I have to write a paper about how Through The Looking Glass is a sequel to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. How are they different and how is it a sequel to it? I read the books but I don't know where to start

You start by going back through the books and making two lists. One list is the similarities; the other is the differences.

Choose at least three similarities and three differences.

Then write the body of your paper, plus a good thesis statement. Make sure the body of your paper supports your thesis.

Then -- and only then -- write the introduction, ending it with your thesis.

I'd start by reading up on the author's life:

http://www.victorianweb.org/authors/carroll/bio1.html
If you find out why he wrote in the style he did and what was going on in the world around him, you may find some interesting things to write about.

Also, you should read some critical essays about each of the works:
http://www.ipl.org/div/litcrit/bin/litcrit.out.pl?ti=ali-230
and
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Through_the_Looking-Glass
(including the references and external links at the bottom of the webpage)

Let us know what you discover.

To start your paper about how "Through the Looking Glass" is a sequel to "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," it is important to first understand the core differences and similarities between the two books. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Read both books: Since you mentioned that you have already read both books, this is a great starting point.
- Pay attention to the narrative structure, plot development, and characters in each book.
- Take notes on the major differences and similarities you observe.

2. Analyze the narrative structure: Compare the overall structure of the two books.
- Notice how "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" follows a more episodic structure, with Alice moving from one bizarre situation to another.
- In contrast, "Through the Looking Glass" has a more coherent storyline, with Alice's adventures structured around a game of chess.

3. Examine the characters: Compare the main characters in each book.
- Identify characters that appear in both, such as Alice, and note any changes or developments in their personalities or roles.
- Consider the addition of new characters or the absence of specific characters in "Through the Looking Glass."

4. Analyze the themes and motifs: Explore the common themes and motifs that run through both books.
- Look for themes like identity, reality versus illusion, nonsense, and the exploration of childhood imagination.
- Identify specific motifs, like the use of wordplay, puns, and literary references.

5. Consider Lewis Carroll's intention: Research the author, Lewis Carroll (real name: Charles Dodgson), and his intentions for the two books.
- Understand Carroll's mathematical background and how it influenced the themes and structure of the books.
- Take note of any letters, diaries, or interviews that provide insight into Carroll's purpose in writing a sequel.

6. Develop your thesis statement: Based on your observations and analysis, create a clear thesis statement that summarizes your argument about how "Through the Looking Glass" is a sequel to "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland."
- For example, you might argue that while both books share similarities in terms of Alice's adventures in surreal environments, "Through the Looking Glass" serves as a logical continuation of Alice's growth and an exploration of more complex themes.

7. Use evidence and examples: Support your thesis statement with specific evidence from both books.
- Quote sections where there are connections or differences between the two books.
- Reference particular events or character developments that highlight the progression from "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" to "Through the Looking Glass."

8. Structure your paper: Organize your paper with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
- In the introduction, present your thesis statement and provide a brief overview of your argument.
- In the body paragraphs, present your evidence and analysis in a logical and cohesive manner, addressing each point separately.
- In the conclusion, summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement as a strong summary statement.

Remember, the key is to provide a well-supported analysis, drawing from evidence in the texts themselves and any relevant background information about the author. Good luck with your paper!