
Narnia: Epic children's story for ALL ages

The Chronicles of Narnia (a seven book series) has something to offer every reader, age 4 to 94. C.S. Lewis wrote many essays and books on the philosophical subject of apologetics, and his writings could certainly get complex at times. In this series, however, he creates the magical land of Narnia and uses it to tell an allegorical tale in a very simple yet profound way.
Although the books were published in a different order, might I suggest reading the set chronologically, according to Narnian time:
1. The Magician's Nephew (The "creation story," including the introduction of sin into the world, and the promise of redemption.)
2. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (The Salvation of believers from evil, including a somewhat gruesome depiction of the crucifixion. Parents, read these books along with your children. They WILL have questions!)
3. The Horse and His Boy (One of the stories not concerning the "main characters" of the other books. It introduces everyday Narnia during the Glorious Era. A journey in many ways, discusses slavery vs. freedom, and a the plot of evil to overthrow good.)
4. Prince Caspian (Brings back main characters from THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE. Time has passed and they are the great kinds and queens of old, but evil has taken over Narnia once more. Caspian and the children must fight for the freedom of the enslaved and oppressed.)
5. The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (Prince Caspian, Edmund, and Lucy are returning characters. A search to restore good, restore the glory that once was. Also, a journey to find Aslan [God]. Again, quite an adventure. Similar in some ways to GULLIVER'S TRAVELS...at least I thought so when I read it years ago!)
6. The Silver Chair (Eustace returns from THE VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER, called back by Aslan for a special mission. Caspian's son has been lured away by evil, which has grown steadily more menacing as each book progresses. A coming-of-age book for Eustace.)
7. The Last Battle (If THE MAGICIAN'S NEPHEW is Genesis 1-3, then THE LAST BATTLE is the book of Revelation. The kings and queens of Narnia are called home for a terrible war and the side of good appears to be losing. Parents, this is another one to read WITH the children...Lewis tackles some really tough topics, and the end of the book will certainly open a dialogue between you and your kids!)
Parents, I can't stress it enough: with any book you might read to or with your young child, READ IT FIRST. It helps you decide if the content is appropriate for their age level, and you will have time to consider what questions/topics could come up for discussion, which allows time to think through some possible answers. Don't underestimate the creativity and profound thought process of your little ones!
Lewis lived through war first-hand. These children's stories may seem awfully grown-up at times because of their discussion of battle and death. But to show how amazing it is that good can completely and utterly conquer evil, one must describe the battle. For readers who are more learned, and--dare I say--older, the true allegory of NARNIA is a beautiful thing. I recommend reading the books when you are young, to discover the world of Narnia; when you are an adult, to discover the meaning of Narnia; and when you are sage, to discover the heart of Narnia. And, just like reading your favorite Bible passages and stories, you'll find that Lewis's children's stories have new meaning each time you turn the page anew.
Review ID: 10000000009837723

Thank you for voting. If your vote meets our
guidelines, it will be posted within 24 hours.
You cannot vote on the helpfulness of a review you wrote.
Your request cannot be processed at this time. Please try again later.