Editorial Review

Thirteen-year-old foster kid Skye Nicholson has become an expert at being an angry, cold, and defensive teenager. After breaking more foster home placements than she cares to count, and committing numerous offenses, she's headed to her final resort --- juvenile detention. But after a court compromise, hope finds her through a beautiful sorrel quarter horse named Champ and the tough love of Tom and Eileen Chamber, who offer her another chance at their home at Keystone Stables. There she's introduced to a God who has the power to truly save her, no matter how much she thinks she's not worth saving. ... Read more

Reviews

Youth horse books
great horse book for younger girls. If you haven't read the keystone stables series you will love it. If you have...don't be misled like I was..the first four book are the same book with a different cover..although cute and more modern...we ended up with the same book. after the fourth they are new, that is just a word of wise. IF you haven't read them, you'll love them ... Read more

Editorial Review

This collection includes all seven novels in the series. ... Read more

Reviews

Some orderly observations about ordering Narnia.
The order in which the Narnia Chronicles should be read and published is a matter of great controversy. In my view, the answer to this question lies in a proper understanding of the deeper level of Narnia. When read on an adult level, the Narnia Chronicles function as a powerful medium used by Lewis to impart powerful spiritual truths about Christianity and theology. But these spiritual truths are conveyed more by Biblical allusions than by rigid allegory. This also has implications for the order of the volumes in this series.

The publishers of this edition have elected to follow the chronological order of the series: 1. The Magician's Nephew; 2. The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe; 3. The Horse and His Boy; 4. Prince Caspian; 5. The Voyage of the Dawn Treader; 6. The Silver Chair; 7. The Last Battle. The chronological order makes the books more strictly allegorical than they really were intended to be, and gives the impression that they are an extended allegory rather than incidental allusions, an incorrect impression in my view. Despite all the talk about allegory, it seems to me that Lewis is more fond of incorporating Biblical allusions where and when he pleases, rather than working with a strict and rigid allegory that tightly binds the plot. Certainly the central Biblical themes of creation, fall, redemption and consummation are present, and form the broad chronological coat-hanger on which the series rests. But ultimately Lewis does not want us to become obsessed with chronology, but with content.

Thus there is something to the vehemence with which so many readers argue that the books must be read in the order in which they were first published, namely: 1. The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe; 2. Prince Caspian; 3. The Voyage of the Dawn Treader; 4. The Silver Chair; 5. The Horse and His Boy; 6. The Magician's Nephew; 7. The Last Battle. While it is true that this originally published order is not chronological, it does enhance the process of discovery about the magical world of Narnia, and slowly uncovers various aspects of its history.

It must be conceded that in a letter written in 1957 (published in "Letters to Children"), Lewis did appear to state a mild preference for the chronological order. But in that same letter Lewis concluded: "So perhaps it does not matter very much in which order anyone read them." Surely Lewis' own conclusion is correct. Although my personal thoughts are that the originally published order is perhaps to be marginally preferred, in the end each book is a separate story and an independent glimpse into the exciting world of Narnia. It is the understanding of the allusions that deserves our attention, not an artificial reconstruction of a complicated allegory. These allusions do not need to be artificially joined together in a strict chronological sequence to be enjoyed - they are equally profound and enjoyable as they were read by the first readers, namely, in the originally published order.

Still amazing, after decades... but read LWW first!
What can I add to the discussion of the Narnia books themselves? They're fantastic, and, as a long-time reader of Lewis's work, all I can say is that it's heartening to see that new generations are continuing to discover how wonderful the Chronicles of Narnia are, just as I did about 20 years ago. It's also great to see how many adults continue to treasure them, just as I do today.

The only thing I would say to first-time readers is the same thing that a lot of other reviewers are saying: DON'T READ THE BOOKS IN THE ORDER THAT U.S. PUBLISHERS ARE PUTTING THEM OUT THESE DAYS! Lewis always intended the Narnia books to be published and read in the order in which he wrote them: LWW, PC, VDT, SC, HHB, MN, and LB. It's true that, near the end of his life, Lewis pondered the notion of having the books published and read in chronological order -- but only after an extensive set of internal revisions.

As it turned out, Lewis never had the chance to complete those revisions. So, as they stand now, the books really should be read in the original sequence. For one thing, that's the only way for new readers to discover Narnia in the way that Lewis himself discovered it. Since Lewis never got around to his intended rewriting, the overall story unfolds much more meaningfully -- and much more dramatically -- when it's read OUT of order. For instance, part of the enjoyment of reading The Magician's Nephew is realizing just how a land that the reader has already fallen in love with actually came into being; there's an almost archaeological ("oh, NOW I understand") feel to it. If you read MN first, you miss completely that very important -- and very rich -- subtext.

I could go on: about why The Horse and His Boy should be Book #5, why The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe is THE only real gateway into Narnia, and so forth. But the point is clear. I have a strong suspicion that publishers have changed the order of the books not to adhere to any wishes that Lewis himself may or may not have had, but because some corporate executive decided that less complexity would result in more sales. Publishers should have more faith in the ability of readers to appreciate complicated textual issues, even if (or especially if!) those readers are children. To read the Narnia Chronicles in the order they're in now is to deprive oneself of the most meaningful reading of the story as a whole. So read The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe first -- and, while you're at it, maybe let the publishers know that you'd like to see future editions appear in the original order. But whatever sequence you follow, enjoy the books themselves!

A Question of Order: On the Reading of Naria
With two publication orders of Narnia, many people question which to read. For several reasons, I recommend the first publication order to be read first, the internal chronology second..

If one reads the history of Narnia as strictly that, one is much more likely to lose the truths Lewis was trying to impart. When one reads The Lion, if they had not read Magician's Nephew, they will be unaware of where the Lamp-Post came. Lion is essential a story about Edmond coming into the salvation of God. It creates a real sense of wonder, a wonder that would be diluted with knowledge of its creation. It's a mystery, an account. You become less concerned with the book in context of the whole series, and more concerned with the book in context of the book. Some things you might miss or not pay much attention to because you have already taken into account in context of the story's chronology, and not examined what Lewis was trying to say through this. Also, you get to follow the characters throughout the books, which is lost in the new order. The four Pevensies are in Books I and II, then only the two younger are in III, along with a new character, a cousin named Eustace. Then They can no longer go on, and Eustace and Jill Pole is in Book IV. This is lost in the new order. Also, you can see Lewis's growth as a writer, getting more and more realistic in characterization as each book was written. Of course, when he was writing these he was already a phenomenal writer: but this provided room for more growth, and he developed his already great gift even more so.

Also, as Paul Ford points out in his excellent Companion to Narnia, the old order is reflective of Biblical history. God's people are in bondage to the Egyptians, and he frees them. But the wine and groan, and in the end many die in the wilderness. Then they go into Babylon, and hear all these creation stories. After this, they go and record their own history. Lewis, after trying to write a creation story, found he could not, and went on telling other stories of Narnia. Only after coming more and more into the spirit of the series, after a good deal of history had been written, could he go back and finish Magician. To quote the preface, Ford says the original order allows "the reader to experience something experience something truer than even Lewis intended: the primordial necessity of passing first thru redemption, then into a reinterpretation of one's own story, and finally allowing the future to take its providence course". And how true that is. How many times can one understand what God is doing in your life until you come to know him? When you come to the salvation and knowledge of Christ, after some time elapses you can go back and examine your life, and can see where God's hand was on you, guiding you to that place where you met Christ. And in so doing, you come to trust God in a deeper sense, and as he took care of your past, he will also take care of your future. Of course, this was not intentional on Lewis's part, but it shows when God gives someone a gift, that person can reach people in such a way as to be totally beyond the person, and directly pointing to God. This aspect truly points to Jesus Christ and the "great Emperor Beyond the Sea,".

Of course, there is a balance. They are stories, and should be enjoyed as such. Through these stories, Lewis gives children and adults alike truth. However, if you overanalyze them, you are losing the spirit of the series. One must first enjoy them as stories, and not go dissecting them without reading them simply for stories. That is why the chronological order also has its merits. Ironically, however, it is better balanced to read it in original order for reasons cited above, also because you can take each story on its own, appreciating both the story and the symbolism. Without the interconnecting theme of history behind it, you are forced to look more at what the story is and what it is saying as to what the Chronicles is saying as a whole. That is one side. That is not balanced. Then, go back and read the stories in chronological order. That makes you appreciate the series as a whole.

In conclusion, each has its merits, and without each it they are not balanced. But for first time readers, read it in the original order. You will get more out of it. That is the most balanced way to read and appreciate the stories. Afterward, go back and read in chronological order. Then you will have a balanced and complete view of Lewis's fabulous and God-given Chronicles of Narnia.

Fantastic!
This is a FANTASTIC Audio production. The actors reading the books do a superb job: to the point that at times I don't believe it is the same person reading the different parts. They put such enthusiasm and character in to the voices and the readings that it makes the book come alive.

If I have to mention a criticism it would be this: I tried listening to this on a stereo system but the volume variations in the readers intonation is too much. At times I had to turn the volume on the stereo way up to hear the softer parts of the recital and then it would be too loud. Listening to this on headphones is the way to go!

Truly Exceptional Stories for ALL ages!
The Narnian Chronicles have been my favorite series since I first read (and devoured) them in third grade (I'm now 30). I have since reread them many times, enjoying them even more each time as I see new things previously undiscovered or not understood. They are entertaining, imaginative, and thought-provoking from many perspectives, and will appeal even to the mature 5 or 6-year-old child as a read-aloud adventure. These books are truly worthy of discussion with your elementary, middle school, or high school student. College students have even written theses about these books and their many intriguing themes. I recently gave the entire set to my eighty-year-old grandmother as a gift, and she read them all within a couple of weeks! She said they were so good, she couldn't put them down, and she has loved talking to me about them ever since! My husband's 90-year-old grandmother is also an avid reader, finishing a book every few days. I am planning on giving the Narnia books to her as well! You simply can't go wrong purchasing these books. This is a wonderfully appealing fantasy series for all ages- it will surely be an enduring classic for generations to come.

Finally, A set I can put in the right order!
I have waited for years to replace my well worn set of Narnia books. Even though Lewis may have mentioned in passing that he'd prefer the books to be read chronologically, I still preferred to read them in the order they were written. Every boxed set I have found in the last 15 years has the books numbered, with Magician's nephew as the first (he wrote The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe first).

Apparently I'm not alone in wishing to be able to have these wonderful boks on my shelf in the order the author wrote them. This set has NO numbering on the spines of the books!

Ok, not a big deal to many, and this isn't a review of the books themselves (there are plenty of those around!), but I'm just excited about being able to purchase a new set finally!

Delightful Reading, But Sadly Altered
There is a modern misconception concerning C.S. Lewis's great children's series, 'The Chronicles of Narnia.' Due to changes during reprinting, the orginal order of his seven-part series was disrupted to conform to the overall story-line. When the books were written, Mr. Lewis began his series with the classic Christian allegory, 'The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe.' He then went on to write the remaining novels in a non-traditional, non-chronological order: part two of the 'Chronicles' was 'Prince Caspian'. Next came, 'The Voyage of the Dawn Treader', 'The Silver Chair', 'The Horse and His Boy', 'The Magician's Nephew', and finally, 'The Last Battle.' Lewis released his novels in this order for a reason and I urge every reader to follow the original, proper sequence. It transforms a mere fantasy series into some of the single best children's novels in print. The symbolism of Christian allegory and the honest and noble morals that rest among the pages will stay with you and your children for years to come. May Aslan be with you and your family as you take the delightful trip into the fantastic and amasing land of Narnia! ... Read more

Editorial Review

Sophie and her friends launch an 'archaeological expedition' and make a disturbing discovery. Sophie keeps digging to uncover a shocking family secret. In light of this new revelation, will she ever be able to trust her parents again? ... Read more

Reviews

One of the Best Books
Sophie LaCroix's life seems to be going fine. She has her two best friends, Fiona and Kitty, to make films with and she's making better grades.

However, Sophie feels like her father is putting too much pressure on her to act like her big sister, Lacie, and when she makes a discovery in the attic, she's certain she's adopted. Will Sophie ever be able to trust her parents again?

Sophie's family tension is something everyone can relate to, now matter what their postion in the family is. The writing is vivid and descriptive, the plot is unpredictable and easy to follow, and there is a clear message about God without being preachy.

Nancy Rue is an awesome writer! ... Read more

Editorial Review

"The Jesus Storybook Bible" tells the story beneath all the stories in the Bible. At the center of the story is a baby, the child upon whom everything will depend. Every story whispers his name. From Noah to Moses to the great King David - every story points to him. He is like the missing piece in a puzzle - the piece that makes all the other pieces fit together. From the Old Testament through the New Testament, as the story unfolds, children will pick up the clues and piece together the puzzle. A Bible like no other, "The Jesus Storybook Bible" invites children to join in the greatest of all adventures, to discover for themselves that Jesus is at the center of God's great story of salvation - and at the center of their story too. ... Read more

Reviews

Your Family Needs This!, July 11, 2007
I love every aspect of this Bible. The illustrations by Jago are both charming and intriguing. There are about fifty stories, a good balance. The text itself is exactly what I want my children to hear, theologically. I love this line from the very first chapter. "The Bible isn't mainly about you and what you should be doing. It's about God and what he has done." AMEN.

The subtitle is "Every Story Whispers His Name" and indeed, every story does. "No, the Bible isn't a book of rules, or a book of heroes. The Bible is most of all a Story. It's an adventure story about a young Hero who comes from a far country to win back his lost treasure. It's a love story... You see, the best thing about this Story is -- it's true. There are lots of stories in the Bible, but all the stories are telling one Big Story. The Story of how God loves his children and comes to rescue them."

She goes on to say that the center of the story is a baby who is like the missing piece to a puzzle that makes all the other pieces fit together, and to reveal the beautiful picture. She stays true to this aim, pointing to Christ with every story, helping children to see the whispers of redemption through it all. If you buy just one Children's Story Bible, I'd commend this one to you.

Brilliant idea - let down by the drawings and some inaccuracies, December 23, 2007
As I pastor I've just finished preaching an overview of the bible - I'm passionate about gettting people to see the big picture. So I was really excited to see this for children. The idea is superb, the tying every story to Jesus is magnificent. Our 4 year old daughter has started seeing the connections already. And that excites me. I love how it fits every story in with the plot-line of the bible.

However I have a couple of caveats.

Since children get so much from imagery I was really disappointed with the artwork. The quality is great, but the content very poor, and underscores misconceptions of the bible, actually making the bible look less believable. Noah's ark is shown balancing precariously on the pinnacle of the mountain, as well as being that silly shape that it is often drawn - nothing like the proportions given in the bible. Jericho is a five house town - not much of a conquest there. Goliath is make to look like a gruesome ogre of fairytale proportions. The people of Israel coming to the Red Sea look like a small Sunday school outing rather than 1.5 million people making the exodus. I could go on. For me, the pictures undermine the very thing the words are seeking to do - they push the stories into the realm of fairy tales.

(A far better set of illustrations are by Gail Schoonmaker in the The Big Picture Story Bible written by David Helm.)

The other caveat is that sometimes Lloyd-Jones is a little loose to the story, making up things that aren't in the passage. For example - Jesus being bathed in a golden light at his baptism, there being three wise men, Jesus winking at the boy who brought the 5 loaves and saying "watch this" and others. It's little things like she says Jacob had to wait 7 years to marry Rachel instead of just a week, like God creating by saying "Hello Light", like using "Papa" for Father - a word which doesn't carry the same connotations as Abba. Like the feeding of the '5000 people', rather than 5000 men, plus a lot more women and children. Like Jesus playing games with children. Like Zacchaeus being so small that he had to take a flying leap to get up into his chair for breakfast.

In one sense they're small things, and it is in the style of other children's books. And therein lies the problem - the bible isn't another children's book. It's true in every detail - so when it comes to a Children's version of the Bible, it should be true in every detail. We owe that to our kids.

I'd prefer not to have to edit the story as I tell it. Growing up, we had the Child's Story Bible by Catherine Vos read to us. Time and time again when we thought she was stretching the text, when we looked up our bibles we found she was exactly right. Since we read it so many times, a vast quantity of accurate bible knowledge was imbibed. That's what I look for in a children's bible.

Having said all that - the links to Jesus often make you stop and praise God for Jesus. We've read it following on from the aforementioned Big Picture Story Bible - which I would heartily recommend. And that's probably the best way - read it along with other children's bibles and correct it as you go.

Looking forward to the revised edition of this potentially tremendous asset.

Amazing, March 1, 2007
This is the Bible storybook I have always hoped would be written, though I didn't realize it until I read it. I LOVE THIS BOOK! And so do my 8 year old, my 6 year old, my 5 year old, and my 3 year old.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for doing this. My favorite line so far: The Bible isn't mainly about you and what you should be doing. It's about God and what he has done. Amen. Our children are capable of hearing this and this book tells it to them in a way they can certainly understand.

Hard To Get Better Than This, March 9, 2007
In Sally Lloyd-Jones' unique, kid-friendly style, The Jesus Storybook Bible tells 43 Bible stories from the book of Genesis through Revelation. But this book is more than a mere collection of Bible stories. Each story in some way relates to Jesus and who he is, giving children the big picture of what God is all about.

What I Like: Sally Lloyd-Jones has a unique gift for writing for children. Her sense of humor is spinkled throughout - and does not detract from the importance of the Bible's message. I also appreciate the author's clear understanding that parents must help children understand that Bible stories are different from fairy tales. As she says: "You see, the best thing about this story is--it's true. It takes the whole Bible to tell this story. And at the center of the story there is a baby. Every story in the Bible whispers his name. He is like the missing piece in a puzzle--the piece that makes all the other pieces fit together and suddenly you can see a beautiful picture." The illustrations by award-winning artist Jago are also engaging, colorful, and often look beyond the obvious.


What I Dislike: Nothing.


Overall Rating: Excellent.


Age Appeal: 4 - 8.

Kristina, Editor at "Christian Children's Book Review"

The Gold Standard for Children's Bibles, May 8, 2007
Sally Lloyd Jones' version of the the Bible is the one I wish I'd had when my own children were growing up. It has it all, including action, drama, pathos, humor, poetic language AND an awareness of how the Old Testament prefigures the New, leading us to Jesus and his message of hope and redemption. I love it, read it myself for comfort and encouragement, and am truly grateful that I found it in time to read to my grandchildren.

This is the children's Bible I've been waiting 30 years for!, March 1, 2007
For the last 30 years, when I've read Bible storybooks to my own children or others, and now my grandchildren, I've winced, usually at the moralistic finger-wagging tone. I kept thinking I'd write one someday, but now I don't have to! This is it - a captivating story that truly does point to Jesus on every page. My six-year-old grandson loves this Bible. I'm spreading the news to anyone I know who has, or who works with, young children. And I'll especially promote it with women who are just coming to faith themselves, because as they read this to their children, it will whet their appetites to open the Scriptures for themselves.

The BEST children's Bible, February 16, 2007
I am a Sunday School teacher, and the father of a beautiful 4 year old girl. We have probably ten children's Bibles around the house, and all of them have something special about them...
But this is simply the BEST children's Bible I have ever seen (my little girl loves it too.)
Every story is wonderfully told with a heartwarming sense of humor. The illustrations are truly cute (without crossing the line into sugar-coated.)
Best of all is that every story (from the Old and New Testaments) refer in some way to the Lord Jesus, and show how the story fits in with Him... whether it be a shadow of His future coming or directly referencing bloodlines, etc. IE that king David was a good shepherd, but later would come a greater shepherd to save the whole world.
Just can't rave about this children's Bible enough!
I'll be buying one for every child in my Sunday School class... and nieces and nephews... and neighbor children... a few in the car just in case...
Jesus IS Lord!!!! <><

At Last!, February 22, 2007
Finally someone has gotten it right -- a book for children that presents the bible as a wonderful love letter from God, filled with grace rather than "be good/do good so God will love you" stories. You'll want to buy 4 or 5 copies to give away once you've read it, and when you start reading it, you'll be hard pressed to put it down, for every story truly does "whisper His name." It reads like an adventure book, or a mystery really. The artwork is phenomenal and totally engaging. The author has a knack with humor that children and adults alike will love. I'm giving it to my adult friends as well as children! Thank you Sally Lloyd-Jones and Jago!

Theology suited for the younger set, December 17, 2007
I really like this book. My daughters, ages 5 and 7, enjoyed reading it, and I love the way it shows how the Old Testament points toward Jesus. In fact, there were a few "a-ha! I get it!" moments from ME, as well...you know a kids book is good when an adult can get something out of it as well!

I also liked that the illustrations are charming without being cutesy. Too many kids' Bible storybooks have really cheesy art.

A must have for any serious Christian, April 19, 2007
As a father I am so pleased that a childrens Bible story book has been written that for the most part is dead on accurate. My kids enjoy the book and I enjoy sharing the time with them. As a follower of Christ, I cannot tell you how much I enjoy reading this book because its every page drips with the gospel. The author in every story brings you back to the central message of the Bible as a whole which is Jesus Christ. Buy it!!! ... Read more

Editorial Review

In book one, On the Run, Elijah's supernatural gifts have drawn the attention of dark forces. Separated from their parents, Zach and Piper (with a lot of help from heaven) must protect their little brother. ... Read more

Reviews

Reads like a Disney Channel TV show. Good, silly fun
Zach, Piper, and Elijah are on their way to school when a little girl and her dog are hit by a car. Press arrive on the scene shortly and manage to record six-year-old Elijah perform a miracle. The boy lifted the dead dog into his lap and whispered in its ear and the dog woke up, healthy as could be.

When the reporters close in on her brother, Piper knows this isn't a good thing. She grabs him and runs off for the school. But not fast enough. A group of bad guys saw the footage from their hotel room and give chase. They've been after this Elijah boy for a while. Now, the Dawkins family is on the run again.

This was a fun, short read. I read it to my seven-year-old in an afternoon. As always, Myers creates fun characters with great dialogue. This looks to be a really fun series for younger readers, though for the adult, it reads like a Disney Channel TV show. Good, silly fun. Recommended.

Great Book!
This here was a great book. I read it online off a website and it was amazing. I couldn't wait until I could get the number 2 book. It's very interesting how a six-year-old could make miracles. And then how Zach and Piper had to run away from the other people in a green van. (I think it was green). And how Cody and William helped them out. I loved the book.

If you liked A Wrinkle In Time ...
On the Run by Bill Myers

Sixteen year-old Zach Dawkins and his thirteen year-old sister Piper are on their way to school with their six year-old little brother Elijah when they witness an accident. A little girl chasing after her run away puppy are both hit by a car. While all eyes are on the little girl, little Elijah picks up the puppy, sits on a curb rocking and whispering. Piper realizes Elijah is not with them and sees him on the curb with the puppy. She's not the only one. A TV news van arrives on the scene and captures, to Piper's horror, the lifeless puppy get up. It's happened--again.

Thus begins an adventure of three kids on the run from an organization that has been tracking Elijah. In the process, they are separated from their parents who are kidnapped by the same organization. The henchmen chasing the kids are comical almost to the point of cartoonish. Throw in a bus ride, crazy inventions and hot-wiring an RV and you have the makings of an exciting adventure.

This is a hard-to-put-down read. If you enjoyed A Wrinkle in Time, you will love this as well.

Typical Bill Myers Greatness
I have been a fan of Bill Myers for a long time. On the Run is the first book of his newest series.

Three siblings, Zach, Piper and their younger brother Elijah are just going about their day - walking to school - when a puppy gets hit by a car.

Elijah holds the puppy and brings it back to life.

What?!

Plus, there's some organization called, The Organization led by The Shadow Man who is out to kidnap Elijah.

The chase is on, from their home, to their aunts, to a hospital where Elijah brings a girl out of a coma.

It seems like this could be an allegory but it's still too soon to tell.

These books are nice and short - you can read one in less than an hour.

Bill Myers is amazing. ... Read more

Editorial Review

“I think I understand!” Little Star cried out. “The baby Jesus is a king! He’s just little!”
 
A king is about to be born! The stars in the heavens are competing to shine the brightest to celebrate his birth. But when they see the poor family, the donkey, the shabby stable, the stars all think, That can’t possibly be a king. We’ve been fooled.

All except one. The smallest, loneliest star in the sky, Little Star, is the only one to understand what the king was about to bring to the world. But what can Little Star do for him? 

Certain to become a Christmas classic, this delightful tale connects the star atop our Christmas trees to the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of Jesus, in the hearts and minds of young children. ... Read more

Reviews

Sweet Children's Christmas Story, November 10, 2010
I was recently presented with the opportunity to review Anthony DeStefano's Little Star. Little Star is a Christmas story for young children. It is beautifully illustrated by Mark Elliot. The illustrations remind me a bit of The Polar Express. I found myself gazing at many of the illustrations for several minutes. My five year old spent a good twenty minutes flipping though the book to just look at the pictures after I had read the book to her. She was equally captivated by the illustrations.

I was impressed by the sweet story of Little Star. The focus of Little Star's is the birth of Jesus. Without giving away the story, Little Star gives his best to recognize the birth of the little king who was born in the most humble circumstances. Children learn about the real Christmas story as Little Star experienced it.

I like this story because it's not one of those Christmas stories that's focused on the secular aspects of the holiday, instead, the story's focus is precisely where it belongs, on Christ. The story's meaning is very easily conveyed to young children. I'm sure this book will be well received by children between the ages of three to eight.

I was provided with a review copy of this book, by the author in exchange for my honest review.

Great Book For Christmas!, November 1, 2010
The book is about a King that is about to be born. The stars in heaven are competing as to who will shine the brightest to celebrate his birth. But when they see the poor family, the donkey, the stable, the stars don't believe he is the king. One little star does.

This book is beautifully illustrated on every page, and definitely a great book to read to your kids or give as a gift!

Last night my husband read the book to our kids in bed and they got into the story, was happy for the star, and then sad until they saw how it ended and rejoiced. They completely got into and loved all the pictures. It was a hit with our little group! What a great present to get for your child, little family member or friend for Christmas!

Fresh Perspective on the Christmas Story, October 30, 2010
I'm always looking for Biblically based Christmas stories for my children. I am thrilled with Little Star, as it gives a fresh and creative perspective on the birth of Jesus. Tears came to my eyes when I came to the part of the story where the star gets it. "... Little Star was the only one to understand the king's message. His message was love." What a wonderful way to capture the purpose behind this once ever event. Anthony Destano has hit the bulls-eye once again.

A Shining Little Star in the World of Children's Books, November 12, 2010

When my children were small, we used to pile on the couch, me in the middle with my daughter on my lap, and the boys on either side, sometimes sitting on the top of the couch so they could get a better view of the pictures, and we would spend hours each evening reading stories. Those were wonderful moments for my family and I do miss those storied evenings now that my children are so much older and read on their own.

So, when Anthony DeStefano asked me to take a look at his newest book for children, Little Star, and told me that it was about his effort to encapsulate the whole Christ story in the message of the incarnation, I was not only intrigued to see how he made that effort work, but I was also overcome with a sense of nostalgia for reading childrens books, and so I gladly accepted his offer. I am very glad that I did!

When the book arrived in the mail, I quickly glanced through it and decided I would wait to read it until I could invite my two youngest children, Jack-11, and Mary-9, to read it with me. I wanted their viewpoints on the book as well, since it is intended for children. The three of us shared a relaxing evening as we enjoyed the artwork of Mark Elliott (we especially loved Little Star's cowlick of hair!) and the enchantingly uplifting story of Little Star. When we finished reading the book, I asked my children if they understood what the story was about, and without missing a beat, Mary answered, "It's about the death and resurrection of Jesus." Her response made it obvious that the object of the story came through loud and clear.

Through the viewpoint of the stars in heaven, one little loner star rose to a lofty position as the only one who recognized the importance of a king born in a cold and humble stable. He roused himself to shine brightly for the baby, offering warmth and light as his gift, and burned so brightly that he burned himself out for the Lord. Through Little Star, we learn that when we lay our lives down for others, giving our best and our all, we will never die, but like Jesus, we will live forever in the memories and hearts of those who follow us.

Little Star is a wonderful story with a wonderful message. It's sure to become a family classic enjoyed not only at Christmas time, but throughout the year as well.

One Star - Many Stories, December 5, 2010
I was looking for a good Christmas story for my 4-year old daughter and was excited to receive this book for review in exchange for an honest opinion.

As taken from the back cover of the book, "A king is about to be born! The stars in the heavens are competing to shine the brightest to celebrate his birth. But when they see the poor family, the donkey, the shabby stable, the stars all think, That can't possibly be a king. We've been fooled." Well, all the stars but one think that and this is the story of that one little star. Little Star is a bit different from the other stars and is ignored by them as a result. He alone recognizes the importance of the event he's witnessed and in an effort to love and warm the baby Jesus, he winds up "burning himself out".

The illustrations, by Mark Elliott, (especially the nativity scenes) are beautiful. The illustrations depicting the story of Little Star and the other stars and seem a little out of place. They are done in a different style - almost cartoonish compared to the more realistic scenes of the father/son storyline and the nativity.

The story is passed along from father to son and tries to make a connection as to why many people put a star on top of their trees at Christmas time. The story is cute and there was a nice lesson to be learned from it. However, I felt like there were 3 different stories going on in this children's book and it could be confusing for younger children. I somewhat liked the tie to our traditions of using stars on top of our Christmas trees, but that almost seemed like a fourth story idea. I was a little bothered by the ending that every Christmas, people put stars on top of their trees to remember Little Star. Overall, it was a cute book, but I would give it a 3 out of 5 stars due to the disjointed illustrations and numerous story lines going on.

Great Story - Great Illustrations!, November 9, 2010
Got this book about a week ago & read it to the kiddos right away. Even my 8 yr old loved it! Great illustrations as well.

What someone little can do for love, November 23, 2010
I was excited to receive a review copy of Anthony DeStefano's new hardcover children's book, Little Star, from Waterbrook Press. This nativity story for children, just in time for Advent, is unequivocally pro-life. I am happy to recommend a book for children that celebrates the precious gift of life. My own reaction to the book is one of delight. Mark Elliott's enchanting illustrations will captivate young readers as they learn about the tiniest star in the sky, Little Star, and his desire to show his love for the newborn Baby Jesus.

"I think I understand," Little Star cried out. "The baby Jesus IS a king!"

This pro-life message is very apparent as young readers understand that looks can be deceiving: Being physically little has nothing to do with greatness or worth. A little star and Jesus, the Baby King-- both very little but full of so much love. Indeed, as Little Star realized his love and devotion for the newborn King, he could not contain it any longer, and proved to the rest of the other, bigger stars just what someone little can do for love. The sacrifice that Little Star made for his adoration of the newborn King in Bethlehem mirrors the supreme Act of Love that Jesus made for each one of us.

In fact, the sweet character of Little Star reminds me of St. Therese, the Little Flower, who loved her littleness and had such devotion to her Savior, doing all she could for Him in spite of--and because of--her littleness.

I highly recommend Little Star this Advent season for children and the adults who love them.

So Amazing that I cried!!!, August 12, 2010
This is a truly remarkable book for those of any age. In a way, it reminds me of the Giving Tree. Not only will children love it for Christmas but grown ups will enjoy reading it with them. This amazing author really finds a way to touch our hearts every time.

The Parable of Little Star, December 3, 2010
Since I am a big fan of Anthony DeStefano's "Ten Prayers God Always Says Yes To," I was thrilled to receive a review copy of his latest project, "Little Star." As a devout Catholic and mother, I am always looking for good books that teach faith principles without being "preachy" and "Little Star" is just that.

After reading this beautifully illustrated book, I gave it to my 11 year-old daughter. She flipped through the pages, enthralled, and handed it back to me, declaring, "I just love this book!" Even older children appreciate the simple lesson that Little Star teaches us.

If you read the book carefully, you will realize that Little Star is a Christ figure. Little Star is humble and self-sacrificing, rejected by his peers, willingly gives his life for others but is resurrected in light and glory. God rewards Little Star for giving his life by ensuring that he is remembered forever and ever. Sound familiar?

"Little Star" offers the perfect opportunity to teach our children to be Christ-like through this little parable which gently reminds us that Jesus is "the reason for the season." Highly recommended.

A Nice Story, December 1, 2010
There are so many seasonal books available, but so few really live up to expectations. This one almost hits the mark.

Little Star is ignored by all the other stars, but when he sees the new king born in a humble stable, he alone of the all stars understands that Jesus chose to be "born little to show all the people of the world that he loved them, no matter how small or poor they were." Inspired by this love, Little Star burns brightly to warm the newborn baby, in the end burning himself out. But he isn't really gone, because every Christmas we put a star on the top of our tree to remember him by.

The illustrations in the story are lovely for the most part - the manger scenes are truly gorgeous. The images of Little Star and his fellow stars, on the other hand, are very cartoony and feel disjointed compared to the more lavish earthly images. The story itself is sweet and has a nice moral, but I found the "tell me a story, daddy" narrative device to be unnecessary and contrived. And while I liked the tie-in to our tradition of star tree-toppers, the idea that our memory keeps Little Star alive bothered me. Still, it's a nice little story to add to the genre. ... Read more

Editorial Review

As Little Cub and her family prepare to celebrate the most special day of the year, the curious young polar bear begins to wonder…
“Who invented Christmas?”
Mama’s answer only leads to more questions like “Is God more important than Santa?” So she and Little Cub head off on a polar expedition to find God and to see how he gave them Christmas. Along the way, they find signs that God is at work all around them. Through Mama’s gentle guidance, Little Cub learns about the very first Christmas and discovers that…
Jesus is the best present of all.
This enchanting tale provides the perfect opportunity to help young children celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and to discover how very much God loves them. ... Read more

Reviews

Excellent Read!, August 15, 2007
This is one of my new favorite reads for the Christmas season (or anytime, really)! IT has a sweet, warm message. I love finding books with a true Christian theme. Santa Clause and Frosty are great, and have a place in our traditions, but it's also very important to keep a focus on the reason we celebrate Christmas in the first place. I have read this book to 4 and 5-year-olds, who enjoyed it very much. We read it two or three times in one week! They loved it each time, and I loved reinforcing the wonderful spirit of the book. I HIGHLY recommend this for children ages 3-12 (and the adults who love them)!

Wonderful Christmas Gift, November 29, 2006
"Who 'vented Christmas? Was it Santa?" This book answers a child's questions with tenderness as a mother bear and her cub go looking for the giver of Christmas--not Santa, but God. There is no Santa bashing, however, when Mama says, "Santa Claus reminds us about many good things..." The mother and child find God in the natural world and in the hearts of people. Illustrated beautifully, this book is sure to become a Christmas classic.

Great for little ones about the true meaning of X-mas without spoiling "santa", December 22, 2006
Great book about the true meaning of Christmas. Lots of books do that, however, this one actual gives a good reason for Santa - other than "he's not real". Regardless of whether Santa is part your Christmas celebration, kids always hear about it. Illustrations are beautifully done. My 3 year-old loves this "bear book".

"God Gave Us Christmas" by Lisa Bergren, December 7, 2009
Lisa Bergren, author of "God Gave Us Love," has continued her insightful, much needed series with the bears in her new book, "God Gave Us Christmas," A beautiful compilation of the teaching of the Savior's birth, the importance of showing your children that God can be found in all things around them and a great book to answer the question of the importance of Santa Claus. This book teaches children how to find God everywhere they look, in all of His creation, and to have faith in Him without seeing Him.

Another very important aspect addressed in this wonderful book is the power of the Lord, in which He commands the water to freeze and glaciers to melt.

Many books do not question the importance of Santa Claus during the holiday season, however, "God Gave Us Christmas," does just that. By showing children that Santa is just an aspect of Christmas, helping to show generosity, the child is able to learn that the Savior Jesus Christ is the true meaning of Christmas. As a Christian parent that worries about my children confusing the commercialism of Christmas as the true meaning of the holiday, this important aspect of the story is welcoming.

In this book, the little cub is grateful for her mother's teaching of God. Every parent should be willing and happy to share the love of God and teach their children about the gift of salvation. Now their is this great book that allows us to do that. I encourage parents of young children, especially while in the midst of the Christmas season, to pick up this book, read it to your children and remind them of its many lessons.

This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multanomah Publishing Group.

I cannot say enough good things about this book..., April 18, 2007
While no book is ever perfect, this one is pretty good. It brings the idea of why we celebrate Christmas into a story that is different and fresh, and when combined with a biblical account helps kids keep the facts in perspective. I particularly liked the fact that Christmas is tied to the coming of Christ in a way that reminds us of the value of the stories of "Santa" or "St. Nick" yet also emphasizes that the true gift is from God. We talk a lot about the coming of Christ, but many forget that He was sent by the Father. In her own way Bergren reminds us that God has given us an amazing gift in Jesus, and this is the perfect introduction to the idea of Jesus as our gift, not just because He came, but because He died and rose again.

Share Jesus with Your Kids, November 11, 2006
This is a wonderful story about how Mama Bear helps Little Cub find God and learn how He gave Christmas to the world. Beautiful illustrations and charming dialogue! Share this book with your children to show them how God gave Christmas and Jesus to them!

Keeping the Christ in Christmas, January 12, 2007
This is a wonderful book for helping young children understand where Santa fits in and what Christmas is about. I read it to my pre-K and Kindergarten Sunday School classes as well as my own children and the little ones loved it. My older son (8) wasn't so into it. It's really for small ones.

God Gave Us Christmas by Lisa T. Bergen, January 11, 2007
I bought 3 of this book, for my niece and nephews and one for my own children too. It is a great book for kids who are stuck on the only important thing at Christmastime being Santa. It has a wonderful story to teach kids about the real meaning of Christmas and the pictures are beautiful.

Wonderful story!!!, January 10, 2007
I gave this to my son who is 2.5 years old and he LOVES it! He has the book memorized now because he wants to read it every night. It is good to have a story book that takes the focus off of the commerial Christmas.

Meaning of Christmas: Jesus or Santa?, December 4, 2008
This book does a really great job of acknowledging the true reason we celebrate Christmas - Jesus' birth - while not downplaying any of the other holiday traditions our culture has become accustomed to. It does not say that Santa does not exist (for those fearful parents whose children still "believe") but suggests that Santa is a reminder of attributes that God cares about and wants us all to possess. The author goes further than saying "Christmas is about Jesus being born"; she also talks about who Jesus is and why God sent him to earth. I have a feeling this will become a Christmas Classic at our house - even if only because "mom" likes it! ... Read more

Editorial Review

That cold winter's night,

beneath the star's light...

...a Little One came for the world. ... Read more

Reviews

Lovely New Children's Story, October 13, 2004
It's a cold winter's night, and Kind Ox is nesting, all snug in his stable out of the bitter wind, when a visitor comes along. Old Dog. Kind Ox invites Old Dog into the stable where he will be protected from the harm of the storm, and soon more animals have joined the two of them. Stray Cat, and Small Mouse, to be exact. Then Tired Donkey comes along, carrying a woman, Mary, on his back, and a man, Joseph, at his side. Mary is weary, for she is about to have her baby, but there is no room at the inn, so Joseph is worried. But Kind Ox invites them in, and provides shelter for Mary as she gives birth to the baby Jesus, a group of animals around them.

ROOM FOR A LITTLE ONE is a lovely picture book that will paint a simple picture of how Jesus came to be for young children. The prose is extremely easy to understand for all ages, and the illustrations, depicting scenes of animals in the snow, and inside the warmth of the stable, will capture the hearts of parents, as well as their children. A wonderful holiday tale.

Erika Sorocco
Book Review Columnist for The Community Bugle Newspaper

A beautiful book, October 29, 2004
My 11 year old son, brought this home from the book fair at his school today. He was very proud to show me his purchase. We have already read it together with little brother 3 times now!
Jason Cockcroft is an amazing illustrator. His pictures are beautiful and peaceful, while detailed.
Room for a little one, is not long, but has such a beautiful message. It ends with "...a Little One came for the world."
This book is perfect for a bedtime story, or to be read on Christmas Eve, or morning. Our family highly recommends this book. We would give it a 6 if we could. It will be within reach all year long, not just at Christmas time.

A delightful twist on a historical tale!, October 30, 2004
About two thousand years ago, in the town of Nazareth, a miracle occurred. There were Shepherds, the Angels and, on Epiphany, the Wise Men.

In author Martin Waddell's version: This particular winter night is cold, and Kind Ox lies in his stable sheltered from the harsh bitter airs. He is snuggled in the warmth of his straw bed until Old Dog comes along in search of shelter and a warm place to rest his weary bones. Kind Ox invites him in. Not long after do more travelers arrive, also in need of shelter. Stray Cat, and Small Mouse, to be precise.

Then Tired Donkey arrives, leading Joseph along, as he carries Mary on his back. Mary is very tired and needed a place to stay. At each inn, the story was the same. There was no room for them.

"Where will my baby be born?" Mary asked.

Kind Ox invited Tired Donkey in. Mary gives birth to Jesus with the animals around them.

Room for a Little One: A Christmas Tale, is not only simply written and easy to understand, but is also exquisitely illustrated. This is a book your child will read everyday of the year!

Reviewed by Betsie

sweet story with realistic-looking animals, March 30, 2006
My daughter is 19 months old and loves this book, which was a surprise to me. She loves finding the mouse, which is very small and somewhat difficult to find. The animals are very real-looking, which is kinda eery, but very beautiful. My daughter enjoys pointing out Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus. It is definately a beautiful book with a neat story. A great christmas gift!

Excellent Book!!, November 16, 2006
I bought this last year for my son, who is now 6. He and I both love it. I have also read it to my Sunday School class (preschool) who were mesmerized by it. It is a must have book. I can't wait to read it with my children and class again this year.

My favorite Christmas story (other than the original), December 24, 2009
Four years ago at my first Book Fair, as a new children's librarian, I came across this very heart-warming book, "Room for a Little One," which epitomizes the deepest meaning of Christmas.

Please allow me to read this book to you. Please sit and get comfortable. It's cold outside. Kick off your shoes, tuck in your feet. Here, I'll share my throw with you. Hot chocolate? Good.

See, it's an over-sized book, with each page full to the brim with subdued color. No white margins. This is a full story. Martin Waddell and Jason Cockcroft use every inch to tell their version of the manger story.

"It was a cold winter's night. Kind Ox lay in his stable, close to the side of the inn."
There in the doorway appears a dog, backlighted with the glow of dusk.

"Old Dog came by. He stopped and looked into the stable. 'I need somewhere to rest,' said Old Dog. 'Come inside,' Kind Ox said. 'There's always room for a little one here.'"

Kind Ox, a pure white beast, is the gracious host, the one who does not turn away those in need. His actions, of course, parallel his owner. Artist Cockcroft paints the most dead-tired look in that dog's eyes, so reflective of almost unbearable weariness, perhaps reflective of the burden of sin we would like to set down.

When Stray Cat comes by, Old Dog promises not to chase her. Then in her turn Stray Cat promises not to harm Small Mouse. (Please note the use of particular adjectives for each critter, sobriquets for the types of humans in the world, types of burdens described so often in the Jesus stories, burdens which can be put down.) So they all sleep contentedly until the famous couple and their donkey come by. Kind Ox invites Tired Donkey in.

"'Where will my baby be born?' Mary asked. 'Come inside,' Kind Ox called to Tired Donkey. 'There's always room for a little one here.'"

With all the animals surrounding them, Jesus was born in the warmth of the stable.

"That cold winter's night, beneath the star's light...a Little One came for the world."

Such a simply told story, but so profound, with such implication.

A sweet story of Christmas, November 5, 2009
Room for a Little One: A Christmas Tale, written by Martin Waddell, is a simple, yet beautiful story of the Nativity.

The story starts out with Kind Ox lying in his warm stable. Old Dog comes by, asking for a place to rest. Kind Ox answers, "Come inside. There's always room for a little one here." They then, in turn, make room for Stray Cat and Small Mouse.

Last, along comes Tired Donkey, carrying Mary. Mary asks, "Where will my baby be born?"

Kind Ox answers, "Come inside. There's always room for a little one here." The story ends with, "That cold winter's night, beneath the star's light...a Little One came for the world."

The paintings by Jason Cockcroft make this book special by enhancing the text with their incredible, life-like detail.

What I Like: Everything. The text is very simple, yet powerful. And the illustrations are beautiful.

What I Dislike: Nothing.

Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: 4-8.

Christine M. Irvin - Christian Children's Book Review

A Retelling of the Christmas Story for Both Children and Adults, November 19, 2008
Often we forget that the innkeeper who allowed Mary and Joseph to use his stable did so from kindness, not from dismissal, or meanness as is sometimes depicted. Both the innkeeper and his ox, Kind Ox, give all that they have to give in that moment, just the warmth of a humble stable. As the ox rests in his stable one cold winter night, one by one he sees a stray animal weary with cold, and Kind Ox (The Holy Spirit) invites them to spend the night in his shelter, where there is no fear, only warmth, peace and love. The night wears on and eventually the tired donkey carrying Mary comes to the stable and is entreated to come inside, since "There's always room for a little one here."

This beautiful book reminds us that Our Lord works miracles through even the humblest, as Kind Ox displays the great love of the Holy Spirit, a love that is a foretaste of Heaven. The illustrations have that golden glow and hazy dreamlike quality that give the art a timeless feeling. A retelling of the Christmas story that both a little one and an adult will enjoy and ponder upon.

for all of us, November 28, 2007
This lovely little children's book is a simple and powerful metaphor for the Christmas season. Whatever your faith, or lack of, the message is universal. The illustrations are glowing and lovely. A good book for your child, other children, or for grown-ups in your life who need to stop the commercial frenzy and remember what the holiday is really about.

Perfect Christmas gift!, November 22, 2005
This is a beautiful book to expose young kids to the story of Jesus. The pictures are exquisitely detailed and very colorful. This book is sure to be a holiday favorite with my family! It would make a wonderful gift for your grandkids, neices, nephews, etc. Write a personal message on the inside of the front cover and it will be a wonderful Christmas keepsake for them. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Now considered a classic, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe is C.S. Lewis's second book of The Chronicles of Narnia, which has captured the imaginations of children for several generations.

Reviews

Into the "Wardrobe", May 25, 2005
C.S. Lewis pioneered a new kind of fantasy when he wrote "The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe" -- the kind where people from our world somehow get swept into another one. It's old stuff now, but Lewis was among the first to attempt such a thing. Because of its originality, and despite some rather hamhanded allegory, it remains a charmingly written, classic story.

To avoid the threat of bombings in London, the four Pevensie kids are sent to stay with a wealthy, eccentric professor in the country. But strange things start to happen when Lucy finds a wardrobe during a game of hide-and-seek -- when she climbs in, she finds a snowy woodland and a friendly faun. Her siblings don't believe her... until peevish Edmund also ventures through, and encounters the beautiful but evil White Witch.

Soon all four are wandering through the snowy land of Narnia, encountering mythical creatures and talking animals. They also find that the four of them are at the center of a prophecy that will lead to the return of lion-messiah Aslan, and the downfall of the White Witch. But things don't go according to plan when Edmund defects to the Witch's side...

How many fantasy stories are written about kids who crawl through a hedge, wander through a door or pick up a magical object, and immediately are swept off into a medieval land? Lots. And they owe a debt of gratitude to C.S. Lewis, theologian, author, and drinking buddy of "Lord of the Rings" author J.R.R. Tolkien.

C.S. Lewis' story is, despite being set during World War II, very 19th-century in tone -- very charming, conversational and full of little details. He populates it with a mishmash of mythic creatures such as dryads, fauns, and talking beavers. The one flaw? Lewis gets quite hamhanded with his Christian allegory, such as Aslan's resurrection. However, he has a very good plot and charming characters to balance it out.

Those characters deftly avoid being cutesy, especially by virtue of the malicious Edmund, who slowly has a change of heart after falling in with the evil Witch. He's a much more enjoyable character than his noble brother Peter, just because he's so real. And as a counterbalance, there's Lewis's sweet-natured Lucy -- which was also the name of Lewis' granddaughter.

Complex characters and still-fresh stories give "The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe" -- which is soon to be released as a major movie -- a special ambience. Definitely worth reading.

Michael York's audio recording is superb!, April 23, 2001
HarperAudio has produced a exciting, unabridged, audio recording of "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe," featuring the well-known British actor, Michael York, (who played John the Baptist in Zefirrelli's outstanding film "Jesus of Nazareth").

Our family recently listened to the CD recordings while on a car trip. York brings each character to life with his vocal inflections, his use of dynamics (loud and soft voicings) and best of all, his mastery of various accents--British, Irish and Scottish--given to the different characters. Here each "person" has a vivid personality, and the listener can easily picture them in his or her mind.

We've enjoyed the Focus on the Family dramatization, as well as the BBC version, in the past, but I'd prefer to hear the unabridged text of this C.S. Lewis classic fantasy, with its spiritual and allegorical undertones. We've read this story aloud several times in our family over the years, but I believe that, from now on, we'll let Michael York read it to us. This is a pure delight (not like the "Turkish Delight" that Edmund ate)!

Through the Wardrobe, August 2, 2004
This is either the first (published) book in the Narnia series, or the second (chronologically), but order is not important when reading this excellent book.

This is an Alice in Wonderland / Through the Looking Glass type of fairy tale adventure story for all ages, as told by a favorite Sunday school teacher with a strict biblical syllabus.

Four children find an unusual way into Narnia, now under the witch's icy spell, and their experiences pave the way for the future of this magical country.

"Wrong will be right, when Aslan comes in sight,
At the sound of his roar, sorrows will be no more,
When he bears his teeth, winter meets its death,
And when he shakes his mane, we shall have spring again."

Chock full of mythical creatures and talking animals, the story progresses at an exciting gallop. Even Father Christmas puts in an appearance with some very useful gifts for our heroes.

The Sons of Adam and Daughters of Eve experience compassion, bravery, generosity, greed and betrayal, sacrifice, martyrdom, suffering and redemption on their way to maturity before ascending to their rightful places in Narnian history.

The ressurection and later miracles by the great and powerful King Aslan, the significance of the stone table and the great battle between good and evil are powerful symbols of faith.

Read it first,read it last, but certainly read this book.

Amanda Richards August 2, 2004

The first book published in the Narnia series., June 22, 1999
The first book in the famous allegorical Chronicles of Narnia fantasy series for children. Four English school children (Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy) visit an old Professor to avoid the air raids in London during World War II. They discover an "entrance" to a world of fantasy through a wardrobe. It is a world that will change them forever. They assist the golden lion Aslan to defeat the White Witch who has cursed Narnia with eternal winter: the classic conflict of good vs. evil. This is the first in the Chronicles to be published. However, "The Magician's Nephew" relates events that take place before the events in this book and many, including the publisher, suggest that individuals read that book first. I disagree. I think the series flows much better when read in the order of their publication. As one reads the series, particularly with the last volume, one become more attuned to the spiritual aspects of the tales. And in responce to muchadoaboutlisa from Australia (of May 6, 1999), as we can tell from the last volume, Narnia does exist.

by Zach Baird, November 9, 2007
"A Story for Children," that's what it says right on the title page; however, this story can be read by more than just kids. Although simple, this story can be enjoyed by those of us who, though aged in years, are still young at heart. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a book for both children and adults because of its childlike simplicity, its imaginative setting, its fabulous story line, and its rich symbolism.

Simplicity:

C.S. Lewis made his book simple, which is essential in a children's book and also appeals to adults. His style reflects this emphasis on children. By using shorter words he keeps the novel at a child's reading level. Also, the plot unfolds in a straightforward manner. The reader knows what is happening at each point in the story. The simplicity characteristic of this novel works well for adults, too. It makes the novel feel honest and real.

This simplicity carries over into what the characters experience in the story. The characters in the novel deal with simple problems. Edmund is a prime example of this: he follows Lucy into the wardrobe and finds Narnia. However, when Edmund and Lucy exit the wardrobe and are questioned by Peter and Susan, Edmund decides "to let Lucy down" rather than admit she was right (41). Lying is something youngsters can understand; it is probably something they have had to deal with themselves. These problems, although simple, are still things that adults are involved with, too. They are universal.

C.S. Lewis also describes things in interesting and easy to understand ways. As an example, lets look at how he takes the feelings of each child as they hear the name Aslan and makes them seem tangible:

At the name of Aslan each one of the children felt something jump in his inside. Edmund felt a sensation of mysterious horror. Peter felt suddenly brave and adventurous. Susan felt as if some delicious smell or some delicious strain of music had just floated by her. And Lucy got the feeling you have when you wake up in the morning and realize that it is the beginning of the holidays or the beginning of summer. (64-65)

Note here how Lewis uses simple concepts to explain something more complex. He is trying to show that the name Aslan elicits either really good or really bad feelings. Therefore, he uses things like bravery or a "delicious smell", which we can understand, to help us visualize these really good and really bad feelings. The reader can feel what the characters feel because the reader knows what waking up on the first day of summer feels like or what it is like to feel "brave and adventurous". Lewis' descriptions are colorful and make things easy to understand.

Setting:

The setting helps to set the mood of the story, and in this narrative the setting is one filled with majesty and adventure. The story starts off with the children coming to live at a house that "you never seem to come to the end of" (4). An excellent place to play games and explore. There are suits of armor, rooms full of pictures, and books "bigger than a Bible in a church" (5). This is a house where even the most ordinary looking wardrobe leads to a whole other world. Both children and adults can understand the excitement of living in a place that has such limitless possibilities.

Narnia itself sets the stage for a magnificent story. As Peter looks out upon Narnia from a hilltop he sees "forests and hills and valleys" and a river "winding away like a silver snake". Far away on a hill he sees a castle, sparkling in the sunlight, that "looked like a giant star resting on the seashore" (125-126). However, despite its grandeur, it is a tormented world, a world where it is always winter, but never Christmas. It is a world, much like the children's native London, that is overshadowed by evil and needs help. Overall, the setting is an integral part of what endears readers to this story. It is like the props used in a play; better props help to pull the audience into the play. That is what the setting in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe does. It does not matter if the reader is five or fifty-five, the colorful setting still enchants them.

Storyline:

The story itself also speaks to the reader. It contains classic themes that make the story universally appealing. It has the timeless theme of conflict between good and evil, with Aslan on one side and the White Witch on the other. It contains heroes, which are the four children (Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy) who battle the evil White Witch. It contains the adventure of exploring a new world. No matter how old the reader is, this story can still appeal to them because of the classic storyline it contains.

Young and old alike connect with this story because they see it as the way they would want their life to be. They get caught up in the story and seem to experience what the children experience. Lets examine this thought for just a moment. When Lucy is in Mr. Tumnus' home she sees books on the shelves with titles such as "Men, Monks and Gamekepers; a Study in Popular Legend" and "Is Man a Myth?" (12). Animals wrote entire books about these children. When the children meet Mrs. Beaver she greats them by saying, "At last! To think that ever I should live to see this day!" (68). Here is someone who has been looking forward to the children's coming for most of her life. Indeed, everyone knows them; they are like celebrities. The animals even have old rhymes about them. They are sons and daughters of Adam and Eve, destined to overthrow the evil Witch and reign in Cair Paravel. As a reader gets into the story, they start to imagine themselves as someone significant. The idea that there is a real battle between good and evil and that each of us have an important role to play is inspiring. This is one of the great things about fantasy. The storyline can be a medium for uplifting ideas. Although The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is fictional, through the storyline both children and adults can come to know that they, like the children in the novel, are important and can change the world.

Symbolism:

The narrative gains added depth and meaning as a result of the Christian symbolism woven into the tale. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is entertaining and imaginative, but it also has a message the reader can take away from it. The largest symbol in the book is Aslan, who symbolizes Christ. Aslan steps in and takes the punishment Edmund, who is a traitor and deserves to die. In the tales of Aslan we see the story of Christ. When the White Witch takes his life on the stone table it is a symbol of his death on the cross. Then, just as Mary and Mary Magdalene were the first ones at the tomb after the resurrection, so too were Susan and Lucy the first ones to see the resurrected Aslan. He is described in the story as "the son of the great Emperor-Beyond-the-Sea" (75). This is in reference to the way that Christ was the Son of God. Another symbol in the book is the Turkish Delight, which is a symbol for temptation. This Turkish Delight is not ordinary either. It is described as so addicting that once they had started eating it they would "go on eating it till they killed themselves" (33). This Turkish Delight is just like sin, once someone starts eating it is hard for them to stop. Other symbols besides these can also be found in the story. The symbolism in this novel directs the reader's thoughts towards Christ.

The story also contains many simple axioms for life for the reader to enjoy. One occurs when Lucy sees Father Christmas. "Lucy felt running through her that deep shiver of gladness which you only get if you are being solemn and still" (103). This quick sentence highlights the importance of living reverently. Two more instances deal with Peter and his sword. When Father Christmas gives them to Peter he emphasizes the fact that "they are tools not toys" (104). Later, Aslan says, "whatever happens, never forget to wipe your sword" (129). From these it can be inferred that killing should not be done lightly; only in times of great need should Peter use the gifts he has been given. These sayings stick with a reader long after the book is returned to its shelf.

The simplicity, the setting, the story line, and the symbolism make The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe a good read for all ages. On the dedicatory page C.S. Lewis writes a little note to Lucy Barfield, his goddaughter to whom he dedicated the book. He explains that he wrote the book for Lucy, but by the time it was finished Lucy was already grown up. So he goes on to tell Lucy that "some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again." Indeed, this book can be enjoyed by young and old alike.

One of the finest children books ever written, August 4, 2005
In my humble opinion, THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE is the finest children's story of the past century. The story contains both enormously imaginative touches combined with childlike simplicity, and the solid yet uncomplex prose belies a story of great sophistication. It also is a story intended for children, yet so respectful of their intelligence that adults can read it with equal appreciation.

There should be absolutely no controversy about where this novel should come in the seven-novel sequence that comprises The Chronicle of Narnia: it is the first, and it is required to be the first both by the quality of the novel and by the way it fits into the overall structure of the series. Shifting it from the first spot in the series to the second is quite possibly the worst publishing decision of which I am aware. The justification for the change is exceedingly weak. A child wrote Lewis saying that in their opinion the series should be read beginning with THE MAGICIAN'S NEPHEW, which tells, among other things, of the creation of Narnia. Therefore, they felt that THE MAGICIAN'S NEPHEW should be the first and THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE second, with a subsequent reordering of the other books to reflect the chronology of Narnia instead of the kids that discover Narnia. Lewis replied that he agreed, and this agreement is used as the excuse to reorder the books. I have two huge problems with this. First, my guess is that Lewis was, as a wise adult will often do, affirming the child rather than stating his conviction that the books should be reordered. Second, even if Lewis did think the books should be reordered, it is not clear that he actually would have authorized it actually being done, nor that he would have resisted the efforts of any decent publisher to point out to him that reordering was a dreadful idea. Why? Because what is so magical about the original ordering of the series is that it focuses on the extremely subjective experience of the discovery of Narnia by children. The original order maintains a chronology based on its exploration and discovery by children and in reading the books that is going to be the concern of any child or childlike adult in reading the story. Who cares about the narrative from the standpoint of Narnia when the far greater concern is the narrative from the standpoint of children? A lesser but still pertinent criticism of the reordering is that it places one of the weakest novels in the sequence in the first position. When I first read the series, THE MAGICIAN'S NEWPHEW was, along with THE SILVER CHAIR and A HORSE AND HIS BOY, the weakest stories in the sequence. Why put your worst foot forward? The Narnia books are about to be made into a series of feature films by the Disney studios, and they have quite correctly decided to film the books in the original and correct order.

As noted initially, THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE is a nearly perfect story. The manner in which the children first discover Narnia, by entering it through the back of an ordinary wardrobe, is the most exciting entrance into a magical land at least since THE WIZARD OF OZ and probably ALICE IN WONDERLAND and THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS. What they discover is a land under the worst of all possible curses: it is always winter, but never gets to be Christmas. The land is temporarily ruled by a beautiful but evil witch who entices children with Turkish Delight. As literature it is all so delightfully perfect, and one marvels that an enormously literate Oxford don could have written it, though perhaps not so surprising when remembering that another Oxford professor, the mathematician and logician Rev. Charles L. Dodgson, wrote ALICE IN WONDERLAND under the pseudonym of Lewis Carroll.

Of course, Narnia isn't really ruled by the witch, but by a magnificent, enormous lion by the name of Aslan, who, as we are often reminded, is not a tame lion. Anyone reading Narnia will instant recognize a host of parallels between Aslan and Jesus, known as the Lion of Judah, but Lewis cautioned that no one should imagine Aslan a mere Christ figure: he is Lewis's conception of what Christ would have been like had he been incarnated into a magical land called Narnia as a great lion. During the course of the book Lewis retells the story of the death and resurrection of Christ through the character of Aslan, yet he ever gets to the point of preaching or dogmatism. A very close friend of mine, raised Jewish, was aware of the Christ overtones of the story, yet still declared that it was her favorite book as a child.

This is also one of the books with the largest potential audience of which I know. I first read and loved it in college, but elementary school children can delight in reading it, and even younger children can love having it read to them. And it would take a pretty somber and sober adult to not be seduced by its beautiful simplicity. Absolutely no one should deny themselves the joys of exploring Narnia, but make sure you start your tour with this book and not another.

Why Did They Change the Sequence?, November 12, 2001
The Chronicles of Narnia remain favorites for me, well into my 4th decade. But I have to ask: When did the publisher resequence them? I can see that they are now in chronological order, but I find the original sequence more logical and compelling as a story.

The original was 1. Lion, 2. Caspian, 3. Dawn Treader, 4. Silver Chair, 5. Horse/Boy, 6. Magician's Nephew, and 7. Last Battle.

This puts the creation of Narnia within the context of the storyline. I can remember the epiphany of The Magician's Nephew the first time I read it in grade school. I felt like I was uncovering hidden secrets. I don't think it would stand alone as well.

So, if you're planning to introduce these to your kids (and I hope you do!) consider the original sequence - I think you and your children will enjoy it more.

Duller than expected... unless you start with this tome?, May 27, 2005
This is the second volume (chronologically) in The Chronicles of Narnia (after The Magician's Nephew, before The Horse and His Boy; Prince Caspian; The Voyage of the Dawn Treader; The Silver Chair; The Last Battle).

This book takes place during World War II, many years after the events of The Magician's Nephew, and tells the story of four young siblings, Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy. They are exploring the big house of an old Professor (which I'm guessig is Digory from the first book) where they've been sent during the air-raids, when Lucy enters the old wardrobe in en empty room upstairs to hide in it.

Only this wardrobe is actually a direct passage to the world of Narnia, and Lucy finds herself in a forest on a snowy night, the only light that of a lamppost. There she meets a Faun named Tumnus, who is indeed very amazed to meet a legendary Human, an invites her to tea. In the cozy warmth of his home, he tells her of the evil White Witch, who is turning everyone who opposes her to stone, and whose spell on Narnia makes it always winter and never Christmas.

When Lucy finally gets out of the wood and then out of the wardrobe again, no time has actually passed, and of course, when she tells her story to her brothers and sister, none of them believes her. Edmund in particular likes to make fun of her.

On another, rainy day, when they're all playing hide-and-seek in the huge mansion, Edmund decides to hide in the wardrobe and he too finds himself in Narnia. But instead of the Faun, he meets the White Witch, who lures him with Turkish Delight (his favourite sweets) and by making him believe that he can become King if he brings her his brother and sisters.

The book then tells the adventures of the four kids in Narnia, meeting a friendly couple of talking badgers and all kinds of other fantastic animals and creatures, among then the powerful Lion King Aslan, and helping them save the world from the evil usurper Queen.

Reading the series in the chronological order rather than in the publication order, I found that The Magician's Nephew was actually a kind of spoiler for The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. I think that I would have been more enchanted, amazed and curious about the world of Narnia if I hadn't read all about its creation in the first book. I would have wondered about the lamppost, for example (and it would have been nice to read about the Lion's song later). Knowing about it in advance, I'm sure I found it a tad duller, because I wasn't discovering it at the same time as the kids. This is a nice story, and I know it's a Classic, but I must say it's not as captivating as I thought it would be.

I advise you read it in the publication order: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; Prince Caspian; The Voyage of the Dawn Treader; The Silver Chair; The Horse and His Boy; The Magicians Nephew; The Last Battle.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, April 30, 2000
A long time ago, four children found a magical world beyond (what they thought was) an ordinary wardrobe. This magical world led them to many adventures in a magical place called Narnia. I read The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe in less than three hours because it was so interesting and captivating. this is now my favorite book. After I read The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, I bought the other books in the series. I recommend that others do too. I enjoyed reading this book and then the Magician's Nephew. My favorite character is Aslan. Aslan is a lion that comes to save Narnia from the White Witch. Aslan is very courageous. My second favorite character is Lucy. Lucy was the first to enter Narnia. At the end, Lucy was named Queen Lucy the Valiant. My least favorite character is the White Witch. She made Narnia always winter but never Christmas. She also turned things to stone. She was truly an evil witch. My second least favorite character is Edmund, at the beginning. He lied and could have gotten his brother and sisters killed.Edmund became a better person in the end. My favorite part was when Aslan's army were battling the White Witch's army. I also liked when Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy were crowned Kings and Queens. Peter was crowned King Peter the Magnificent. Susan was crowned Queen Susan the Gentle. Edmund was crowned King Edmund the Just, and Lucy was crowned Queen Lucy the Valiant. My least favorite part was when Edmund entered the wardrobe. When he entered Narnia he met the White Witch. Edmund decided to betray his brother and sisters and take them to the White Witch. Then when he got out of Narnia he lied and said he had never been there. I enjoyed The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. I would recommend it to anyone who has an imagination. I also recommend the other books in this series.

The best of the best Children's Books, July 7, 2005
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is the first of the seven Chronicles of Narnia by unequaled English author C.S. Lewis. These books are able to accomplish something that few other books in all of literature have been able to achieve. They are able to be at once great and entertaining literature as well as insightful and profound theology. They are fun and inspiring. Tolkien, Lewis's model McDonald, and a few others achieve some variation of it, but none quite like Lewis.

The story unfolds with the four Pevensie children being sent to live with an eccentric old professor in the country, in order to be out of London during the bombing. The house turns out to be as interesting as the professor, and soon the kids find their way to an alternate world where some of the animals can talk and fairy-tales come to life. Not just the fun characters, either, but witches as well, in fact one has the land of Narnia under a spell where it's "always winter but never Christmas". The kids become the focal point for a classic good versus evil struggle, but with heavy though never pedantic theological lessons. And the king of Narnia, the lion who is the son of the Emperor-over-the-Sea, is just fantastic. Highly, highly recommended for kids and adults. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The Dawn Treader will take you places you never dreamed existed.

Reviews

Voyaging, May 26, 2005
The second volume of the Narnia Chronicles closed with the possibility of Lucy and Edmund -- though not their older siblings -- returning to Narnia. "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" makes good on that story, with the intrepid pair (plus a whiny cousin) returning on a strange sea voyage.

After the events of "Prince Caspian," Lucy and Edmund are sent off to stay with their obnoxious cousin Eustace. But when they admire a picture of a strange ship, suddenly all three kids are sucked in -- and land in a Narnian sea. On board the ship is King Caspian, now fully grown, who is determined to find a bunch of knights exiled by his murderous uncle, even if he has to go to the edge of the world (literally).

Lucy and Edmund are thrilled to be back in Narnia again, but Eustance proceeds to make trouble any way he can, complaining and causing trouble among the crew. But there are problems more horrifying than any of them can guess, from dragons to sinister "gold water" to a region filled with their worst nightmares.

"The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" is one of Lewis's most original and tightly-written Narnian adventures. It's also a bit of a break from form. After two books of battles against evil tyrants, "Voyage" simply goes where no man/woman/mouse has gone before, and gives us a view of the Narnian world as more than one isolated little region.

And in some ways, it's also the darkest Chronicle. Lewis explores the theme of greed here -- greed for power, beauty, money and magic -- and has some scenes both chilling and majestic. But his archly humorous style peeks through in several places, whether it's pompous mouse Reepicheep or tea with a reclusive old wizard.

Edmund and Lucy are their usual plucky selves, albeit a bit more mature than before. But "Voyage" also introduces one of Lewis' most interesting characters in Eustace Clarence Scrubb. Like Edmund, Eustace is initially a peevish, lying boy who generally makes trouble, but slowly learns his errors. But unlike Edmund, Eustace doesn't have to ally himself to the baddie to learn that.

"Voyage of the Dawn Treader" was a turning point for the Narnia Chronicles, as well as the one that began venturing into darker territory. Engaging and tightly written.

questing after the Kingdom, November 8, 2001
I have put off reviewing "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" for a long time. There is no other book I have so longed to recommend to others, but I have felt (and still feel) totally inadequate when it comes to expressing what a wonderful story this is. I could go on for days about all the wonderful things contained here. That said, I will try and focus on only a few aspects of this book and then plead with you to read it.

First, I must note that I feel this story should be read in the context of the entire Narnian series. It stands on its own nicely enough, but the deep background of the previous tales adds richness and texture to the tale.

Secondly, I must note that this book is highly enjoyable because it works on two levels. The tale as a whole is the story of a journey into unknown lands. With each new place they visit, the whole is broken into wonderful episodes. My favorite episode (with the exception of the ending) is the island where dreams come true...its not what one would expect.

The character of Eustace is my favorite of all the humans in the Narnian books. This story is partly a tale of his transformation. This seems to be a universal human desire; but Eustace, like all who truly seek transformation must, finds impossible to reform himself. This is an especially timely lesson for our "self-help" culture at the beginning of the twenty-first century.

This brings me to what I like best of "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader." Let me preface what I say here by making it clear that no one hates heavy-handed use of allegory as much as I do. However, the allegory that is "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" is one of the greatest things of beauty I have ever encountered.

In one form or another we are all questing after an unseen kingdom. Be it the kingdom of God, Materialism, or simply of the Self--we are all, like Caspian and his pals, on a quest. I don't wish to give away any endings, but let me just say that the greatest truth Lewis expresses in his book is that no one can reach the True Kingdom on their own.

I urge you to read this book. If I could only have a handful of books, this one would definitely be among them. I give "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" my highest recommendation.

A beautiful quest story, July 6, 2000
Lucy and Edmund return to Narnia and find themselves on the Dawn Treader, a true sailing vessel for a magical children's story, traveling with Prince Caspian on a quest to find the end of the world. However, when the children are returned to their favorite land, they bring along their cousin, the sour and demanding Eustace Scrubb.

Through many adventures at sea and during ports of call, Eustace makes the rather predictable transformation into an alright chap, but don't mistake the predictability of this end for cheap or sloppy story telling on Lewis's part. Eustace's transformation can be interpreted as the transformation of the unbeliever to a Christian, and the symbolism of his physical change is rich and compelling for adults and engaging and magical for children.

Our dear, brave friend Reepacheep is back, too, and shows his continuing bravery in a heartwarming ending that causes readers to feel great admiration for the little mouse with big courage.

The richest part of the novel is the well described climax in which the story takes on a mythical nature and our friends come close to the line between heaven and earth.

It's a lovely book, and as usual for the series, can be enjoyed on theological levels, but it loses nothing if the reader picks it up as pure fantasy for someone looking for a great tale!

The best of the series, February 21, 2001
Our old friends Lucy and Edmund Pevensie join their nerdy cousin Eustace, in this book, in a journey through a portrait of a ship, to the seas off the coast of Narnia. There, they meet their old friend Prince Caspian, who is adventuring across the seas to explore the far reaches of his world. He is also searching for a group of lost nobility from Narnia, who apparently had been marooned on various Narnian islands years before. They all travel from island to island, and have many challenging adventures.

Of all the Narnia books, this is probably the one where C.S. Lewis gave himself the most freedom to just tell a story, without being "in-your-face" about the allegorical meanings of everything. There IS a lot of allegory, but he makes it part of a story here, rather then constructing a story just as an excuse to make up a context for an allegory. It's a terrific tale for children or adults. Absolutely two thumbs up.

I just want to recommend a few books, for anyone who may be curious about what sources C.S. Lewis drew upon for this story. I'll let you discover them for yourself, but the titles are: "Phantom Islands of the Atlantic," by Donald S. Johnson, and "New Worlds, Ancient Texts" by Anthony Grafton. Also -- if anyone's interested in learning about the cultural context of C.S. Lewis' personal problems with science education, which are pretty obvious in the way he talks about Eustace, then I recommend looking at "The Two Cultures" by C.P. Snow. You'll see what I mean.

The text Lewis did not prefer, December 17, 2005
I'd like to see an edition with both versions of Chapter Twelve, "The Dark Island". C.S. Lewis found himself dissatisfied with the ending of that chapter; he thought that having the island simply vanish denigrated children's feelings, implying as it does that children _should_ feel like "pretty good fools" for being afraid of things that don't frighten grownups.

So for the American edition, he revised that chapter to show the island growing "smaller and smaller astern" as the ship sailed away. And instead of having Lord Rhoop beg never to be sent back there, he had a strong bit of business in which Lord Rhoop's boon that he begs of King Caspian is "Never to ask me, or to let any other ask me, what I have seen during my years on the Dark Island."

Lewis thought, and I think, that this was more respectful of his child-readers: acknowledging that even if the fear-object is imaginary, the fear is real. The original edition _dismissed_ children's fears, tantamount to laughing at a child who's awakened in shuddering terror and telling him, "It was all just a dream! Now don't you feel silly?"

Lewis's revision -- the "Never to ask me" version of the text -- was featured in all American editions prior to 1994. At that time, the US publishers made the decision to return to the earlier text simply because it was the "original", ignoring Lewis's own preference for the revised text.

I'd like to see an edition of this book that includes both versions of Chapter 12, perhaps adding the revised text as an appendix at the book's end.

An "Odyssey" for Children, October 26, 2001
After reading the very first line, "There was a boy called Eustace Clarence Scrubb, and he almost deserved it," I realized that I had made a huge mistake beginning "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" half an hour before bedtime. More exciting and adventure-packed than the two preceeding books (in the original ordering, of course), "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" and "Prince Caspian", it is hard to put down.

The main characters that readers will recognize are King Caspian, Edmund, Lucy, and Reepicheep. Sadly, Peter and Susan have since become too old to reenter Narnia; but the story does amazingly well even without them. Here, Eustace, who will reappear in "The Silver Chair", is introduced for the first time. They are an interesting bunch, all providing something essential to the story, especially Reepicheep (whose character and personal history are developed further) and Eustace (who experiences a wonderful kind of redemption).

The Dawn Treader is a ship King Caspian built in order to fulfil an oath made on his coronation day to find the seven lords and friends of his father that his uncle Miraz had sent to explore the Eastern Seas. Every two chapters or so, the Dawn Treader stops at an island, where its crew and passengers have a small adventure-within-the-larger-adventure, discover the fate of each of the seven lords, and learn good moral lessons. For instance, one island, called the Dark Island, is a place where dreams come true. It may sound wonderful, until you realize that the dreams that come true are not the pleasant daydreams, but the nightmares. After the last island, the passengers even reach, or very nearly reach, the End of the World.

Though I compared this book to Homer's "Odyssey" in the title of this review, I must add that it can also be likened to John Bunyan's "The Pilgrim's Progress". This voyage is not guided by fate and devoid of reason, but is blessed by Aslan (who symbolizes Jesus) and is full of meaning and purpose. It does not merely represent the passage through life, but the passage through life _as a Christian_. That may be why one reviewer complained that this novel is overly preachy. Yet we readers are human, after all, and in need of being preached to now and then. Another thing that may surprise readers is the chivalry with which Lucy, the only girl on the ship, is treated by the men. Though it not "politically correct," as Eustace himself points out at the beginning, it has a certain rightness to it.

Remembering how the March girls in Louisa May Alcott's "Little Women" played at being good in imitation of the character Christian in "The Pilgrim's Progress", only to realize that their game was really a way of life, I can say that it would be wonderful if children today could apply the allegories in "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" in the same way. Parents, take note: it is easier to ask a child, "What would Edmund tell you about forgiving someone who has done wrong, like Eustace?" than to launch into a weary sermon about forgiveness that they may not remember anyway. There are more archetypes in this book, and in all stories about Narnia, than C.S. Lewis himself must have realized: and children can only benefit from knowing them as they grow up.

Plot Overcomes Allegory: Hurray!, September 3, 2000
This is the best of the Narnia series. C.S. Lewis allows the plot to get away occasionally from his strict form of Christian allegory. Moreover, the book is funny and episodic and exciting. And it's about getting to know yourself and changing what you don't like.

Unexplored waters and unknown lands create a magic of their own in which Lucy and Edmund and, especially, Eustace -- having magically found themselves on board the Dawn Treader --can come to terms with their weakness and strength. The Dark Island, where all dreams (not just good ones!) come true, Deathwater Island -- the place of greed, Dragon Island, where Eustace turns into a dragon (which, of course, he was on the inside all along), Ramandu's island, the sea people's land, the house of the Retired Star, and more, reveal what stuff these children are made on. What their mettle is may not always exemplary, but in this book at least, characters can change. Eustace can be un-dragoned and become a changed child (having dragon skin a foot deep ripped off by a lion would, I think, inevitably result in change). This is a book of deep, miraculous possibility. As a child, I read *The Voyage of the Dawn Treader* until it fell apart, and I've gone through another copy since.

My only criticism is this: C. S. Lewis, having loosened his strangle-hold on his constricting Christian allegory, occasionally seems to feel obliged to bring in something really ham-handed. It's most annoying. The most egregious intrusion occurs when the children encounter, in the middle of nowhere, a milky white lamb frying fish on the open grass. How the heck does a lamb fry fish? Where does he get fish? Where does he get the frying pan? Why do we *need* this for the plot? The Lamb of God (Christ), communion, fish. Cringe. It's all tossed into the pot and left somehow to be digested. There are fabulous Christian allegories; this is not one of them. I would to say that this is the only place in the entire series where C.S. Lewis' allegory truly and absolutely and utterly crashes and burns. But one Lamb doesn't stop this from being a great book. *The Voyage of the Dawn Treader* provides delight, wonder, and best of all, a promise of a second chance for every one of us.

What a Voyage!, January 17, 2005
C.S. Lewis' "Voyage of the Dawn Treader" was the third Narnian chronicle to be written and the fifth chronologically. Along with "The Last Battle", it's probably my favorite in the series.

Lucy and Edmund have to stay with their cousin Eustace Scrubb and his trendy parents Harold and Albert. Eustace is very serious, a bit of a know-all, cynical and just a little bit mean, . He keeps making fun of Lucy and Edmund's tales of Narnia, the world they have not only visited twice, but been kings and queens in. His mockery soons stops though when the three of them get sucked into a painting in an attic. They find themselves on board the Dawn Treader, King Caspian's exploration vessel, on the beginning of a voyage. The King and his men seek to discover new islands, to find his father's friends who were banished seven years ago, and to see Aslan's Country, rumoured to be at the most eastern end of the world, beyond the sun and the ocean. What a voyage it turns out to be!

When I first read the chronicles of Narnia (in fifth grade), this was the one that captured my imagination the most. It's a book that is constantly exciting, each destination reached more incredible than the last. Such amazing creatures and concepts. There scary places, funny places, places where friends are made and lessons are learned. The descriptions are truly inspired. The ending, even now, leaves me spellbound every time. I can picture it so clearly. Wow!

As with all the Narnian Chronicles, "Voyage of the Dawn Treader" has illustrations by Pauline Baynes, and these are just as evocative as Lewis' descriptions, enhancing them, making them more vivid. I particularly like the picture near the start of chapter ten, of the magician's hallway where Lucy is walking so timidly.

The characters are all great too. It's nice to see Caspian and Reepicheep again, as well as Edmund and Lucy. The chatacter Eustace is a fine invention. He's something of a brat and yet we like him, feel sorry for him when he gets in trouble, and like him better when he changes for the better later on.

C.S. Lewis was a devoted Christian, and all of his work relate back to his beliefs to some extent. Although there is a great deal more emphasis on adventure and fantasy here, there are still allegory and parallels to be drawn if you're looking for them. Eustace's adventures are particularly interesting. He finds fault in everything except himself, who has more obvious faults in his character. He means to be helpful, but he can't really be helpful until he gets rid of his own flaws first. This is rather reminiscent of Jesus' saying "take the plank out of your own eye so you can see clearly to see the speck in your brother's eye". There is a part where he's transformed into a dragon, and he realises the ugliness of his actions. Aslan the Lion helps him by showing him to a well in which to bathe (rather similar to baptism). Before he can bathe, Eustace must shed his ugly skin (his rotten ways), something that he can't do, no matter how he tries. It is only with Aslan's help that he becomes free of them. In christianity, it is through Christ that believers shed their old worldly ways, similar to this. A lot of the allegory, I noticed, had to do with the nature of God, the nature of Christ and being a believer rather than any particular specific event.

Although "Voyage of the Dawn Treader" is number 5 in the "official reading order", rather late in the series, the only books that are really essential to read are "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" and "Prince Caspian". "Prince Caspian" in particular, as several of the characters (Caspian, Reepicheep) and plot threads (the king's lost men) are in this.

Highly recommended for fantasy fans and lovers of the work of C.S. Lewis.

The Voyage, April 12, 2002
C.S. Lewis wrote the Chronicles of Narnia as a series for children, but it is clearly as imaginative and planned as any popular adult fiction. The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is the fifth book of the series and tells the story of Lucy, Edmund, Prince Caspian and the irritable Eustace. These old friends sail on a rickety boat named the Dawn Treader. As they travel in search of the lost land of Aslan, they encounter many unforgettable situations. Aslan is a magical lion that helps the creatures of Narnia keep peace with the other wicked creatures. Lucy learns when to use her magical healing water, and Eustace learns tobe forgiving and generous. Eustace claims he was kidnapped because while journeying to the Narnian world, Edmund and Lucy brought him along by mistake. Throughout the trip Eustace keeps a journal that C.S. Lewis shares with the reader occaisonally. While keeping the journal Eustace realizes that he has been quite a bother along the voyage. From the beginning of the story, Caspian has been searching for distant relatives of his Father. As he finds them, he uncovers mysteries and facts of his past.
I really enjoyed The Voyage of the Dawn Treader because C.S. Lewis portrayed characters that I can relate to. The adventure in the story keeps you reading and thje humor makes you laugh.

"Thrilling", June 1, 2006
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is a stand out among the books in Lewis' excellent series. There are several elements in this book that distinguish it from the books that chronologically precede it. Old characters are put away and new characters (some humans, no less) emerge in importance, there is an absence of a monolithic evil antagonist, and no part of this story actually occurs in "Narnia." Lewis demonstrates a mastery for tension and suspense in this book that is not so apparent in the others, and when reading this one I noticed more moments when my kids' eyes were wide-open with anticipation (e.g., what will happen to Lucy at the end of that strange hallway, what are those threatening invisible thumpers, and will the Dawn Treader ever sail out of the nightmarish blackness?). At bottom, this is a classic and well-done journey story, in which pilgrims put their lives in a fragile boat and sail into the unknown, first to rescue seven loyal heroes and, eventually, to find the Thing greater than them all (that's Jesus, for the honest reader). Aslan makes his many usual appearances, with a strengthening of the concept that he is always present and always in control, no matter whether our human characters know it or take comfort in the knowledge. I don't think it's a spoiler to say that the reader gets to see the Lion revealed as the Lamb in a candid moment. If you tried The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, and you are considering trying one more Narnia volume - try this one. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Beautiful paintings by Eloise Wilkin and inspiring text, make this story of the birth of Jesus one to share again and again. ... Read more

Reviews

Thank GOD!, August 30, 2008
I teach Kindergarten at a Catholic school. This is the perfect book to tell about the birth of Jesus. It has beautiful illustations and the words engage the listener. You will love it!

Still Love The Christmas Story, December 10, 2008
When I was a little girl, my mom bought The Christmas Story book that was in circulation in the 70's. I remember closely looking at the pictures, loving the beautiful colors. The copy I had showed Mary on the cover.

I bought this book for my two year old and was thrilled to see that even though the cover illustration had changed, the story AND the illustrations on the inside were exactly what I remembered from my own copy years ago.

My daughter really loves this book, and I enjoy reading it to her. Would highly recommend.

Special, October 20, 2010
This was a gift for my infant granddaughter. Her mom read the story to her often. According to her mom, she 'enjoyed' the story, and was quiet when it was read to her. Amazing! Highly recommended.

a good story, January 18, 2009
the book arrived on time and is a good story. bought it for my 2-year-old and will replace it with a higher quality copy when she is older. no complaints, though.

Grandfathers Christmas Gift, January 17, 2009
I bought the book for my granddaughters for christmas. they loved the books and I am sure will cherish them for years to come. who knows, they may even pass them down, generation to generation.

Christmas in Louisiana

Another Christmas Story, December 25, 2007
I purchased 15 of these books. They were given out to a group of EC kids that I got to play Santa Claus for during an off site enrichment party for the kids that was held at our Church.

The books arrived on time (all 15 in one delivery!!)and in "brand new condition".

I anticipate doing business with Amazon again.

Richard G
... Read more

Editorial Review

All seven books in the Chronicles of Narnia are now available together in a hardcover volume which includes an essay by C. S. Lewis, "On Three Ways of Writing for Children," where he explains precisely how the magic of Narnia first came to life. ... Read more

Reviews

Chronicling the Chronicles, October 10, 2004
In the first half of the twentieth century, two drinking buddies wrote vastly different fantasy series -- one was the classic "Lord of the Rings," and the other was the "Narnia" series. A close pal of J.R.R. Tolkien's and a fellow "Inkling," C.S. Lewis was one of the first widely-read fantasy writers, and his books are still widely read and enjoyed by children and adults alike.

"The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe" opens as four children (Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter) are being shipped to the English countryside at the beginning of World War II. While exploring the vast house where they are staying, Lucy accidently ventures into a winter-locked world called Narnia, which is ruled over by the evil White Witch. The king Aslan is about to return -- but the Witch quickly gets a hold on Edmund's soul.

"Prince Caspian" takes place long after the events of "Lion" (though in our world, only a short time has passed). Young Prince Caspian escapes his uncle's castle when his life is threatened, and he finds refuge with the hidden races of Narnia -- dwarves, talking animals, dryads, centaurs and many others. And to help Caspian regain the throne, the two kings and two queens of Narnia are called back...

"Voyage of the Dawn Treader" begins when Edmund, Lucy and their obnoxious cousin Eustace are sucked through a painting into Narnia, where their pal Caspian is now king of Narnia (and an adult to boot). Caspian is heading toward the end of the world to find several knights who were banished, and vanished into the perilous islands along the sea.

"The Silver Chair" heads into slightly darker territory when Eustace returns to boarding school. He and outcast girl Jill Pole are drawn into Narnia, where Jill must perform a task to redeem herself for a stupid act. She must find the dying Caspian's son Rilian, who vanished many years before. The search will send the two children across Narnia with the pessimistic Puddleglum, to carnivorous Giants, creepy underground creatures, and an enemy worse than they could have imagined...

"Horse and His Boy" shoots back in time to the middle of "Lion." Shasta lives with the man he thinks to be his father in a hovel by the sea, but when a Calormene warrior purchases him, he escapes with the man's talking horse, Bree. He meets the escaping noblewoman Aravis (who also has a talking horse), and the two are planning to escape to Narnia and freedom. But in the capital city, there is a conspiracy brewing against the visiting Narnian kings and queens...

"Magician's Nephew" clears up many of the questions about Narnia, Aslan and the White Witch. Digory and Polly end up in very serious trouble when they encounter Digory's weird, slightly nutty uncle, a magician who has created magical rings that send the user to other worlds. The two kids end up in the "wood between the worlds," and venture into a dying land where they set loose the evil Queen Jadis -- who follows them to the newborn world of Narnia.

"The Last Battle" is definitely the end of the series, where Narnia decays slowly into the final battle between good and evil. Humans are destroying the trees and killing the dryads, and a false Aslan is appearing to mislead the inhabitants of Narnia. Old and new friends will band together as the true Aslan prepares to lead them to a new land.

If you don't like allegory (religious or otherwise), then steer clear of the Chronicles. While Lewis's beliefs are presented in a more complicated and subtle manner in his other fictional works, here the parallels to basic Christian beliefs are very obvious. Reportedly even Tolkien, one of Lewis's best pals, found the allegory annoying.

But if you can get past the slightly ham-handed treatment, it's a fantastic read. Lewis reshapes typical mythical elements like dwarves, nymphs, talking animals, centaurs and wicked witches into shape in his invented world. And Narnia is an inviting place -- it isn't always fun or pleasant, but there is always the feeling that the good guys will ultimately -- if not immediately -- come out on top.

Lewis's writing can become a bit precious at times, in the tradition of many British authors writing for children. But he puts plenty of detail and mystery in his stories, sprinkling them with little mysteries and questions that are explained as the story goes on. Where did the lamppost come from, for example?

While not quite as well known as his pal Tolkien's work, C.S. Lewis's Narnia series still a fun and dramatic fantasy story. For a bit more insight into the origins of fantasy as we know it, check out "The Chronicles of Narnia."

The Classic Chronicles, May 11, 2005
This is "The Chronicles of Narnia" like you've never read or seen them before--all in one hardbound set, in the chronological order Lewis preferred that they be read. To top it off, it's beautifully illustrated.

"The Chronicles" are C. S. Lewis' beloved children's fantasy series loved also by adults. In them, Lewis chronicles the battle between good and evil, God and the Devil, Aslan the Lion (the Christ Figure) and the White Witch (the Satan Figure).

Lewis' turn of a phrase is worth the price of the book with gems describing evil's hold on Narnia as "always Winter but never Christmas" and Aslan's description of his "resurrection" as "magic from before the dawn of time."

The stories are beautifully told and captivating in and of themselves. Add to that the subtle allegories, images, and parables of good versus evil, and you have a book that will capture your children's imagination and perhaps change their lives forever--for the better.

Buy it now, before everyone else does, because come December 2005, "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" will be released as a big screen Hollywood epic with the same mass marketing, incredible story telling, and awesome special effects of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy.

Reviewer: Dr. Robert W. Kellemen is the author of "Soul Physicians: A Theology of Soul Care and Spiritual Direction," "Spiritual Friends: A Methodology of Soul Care and Spiritual Direction," and the forthcoming "Sacred Companions: A History of Soul Care and Spiritual Direction."

A non-Christian's perspective: WONDERFUL BOOKS!, November 17, 2005
I am Jewish, and I saw that other reviewers thought the Christian imagery of the books would turn off non-Christians. I just wanted to say that I have loved these books ever since discovering them as a pre-teen. I think at first it went "over my head" that Aslan's story was depicting Jesus' crucifixion, and I just enjoyed the tales. Then upon re-reading later, I recognized the Christianity in the stories--but it didn't matter. Many classics of literature depict religious perspectives that even people of the same religion may not necessarily agree with--look at, for example, "The Scarlet Letter." By then I was well-read enough to respect the Christian symbology and view it objectively.

Further, many of us love things like Greek myths that clearly originated in other religious systems--but we can appreciate them and see the lessons in them without "believing" in those religions, per se. In fact, I pointed out to my kids that characters from other belief systems--Greek mythological characters, etc.--were incorporated into the story. Aslan's "side"--consisting of all of the "good guys" and heroes--was very diverse--animals, people, various other creatures . . . while it was the villain, the White Witch, who wanted to eliminate differences. Though she had a host of different creatures working for her, she wanted everyone to think like her; she made it a perpetual winter to keep people unhappy and dependent on her, and turned to stone anyone who resisted her. Thus, while the good folks just wanted to live in peace with each other, the evil ones were the ones who would not be content unless everyone was under their control. I explained to my kids that this was a message, too, about the politics of the time when Lewis was writing, so the books became a history lesson as well--especially since the kids had to go to the country to avoid the WW2 bombings in London.

I am expecting my 4th child within a couple of weeks; my oldest boys (ages 15 & 8) both love these books and movies/cartoons made from them (we have some older videotapes they watched over and over again.) If you are not a Christian, or your view of the crucifixion story differs from the philosophy presented in the books, the obvious thing is to TALK to your kids about your beliefs while still showing them that we can respect and appreciate CS Lewis' view without necessarily agreeing with it. This is an important lesson I believe every child should learn--beyond mere tolerance, it's the ability to appreciate beauty and find commonalities even where there are big differences. If we could all impart that to our kids at an early age, instead of teaching them enmity toward people who are different, what a much better world this would be, right?

I haven't read this particular volume, and assume it's unabridged; if it is indeed complete, then it's definitely worth the price (though an 800 page volume may be unwieldy to young readers or adults reading a bedtime story.) They are wonderful fuel for the imagination, capturing all of the childhood "must-haves": a secret world, swords and magic, battles and fantastic creatures and high adventure. Meanwhile, there is enough humour and "warts & all" realism of the children depicted to keep the stories from being "sappy"--even with the positive morals and values being encouraged at the same time.

Top Quality Edition, January 6, 2006
I'm not going to comment on the actual books contained in this all in one volume, but rather on the quality of the hardback edition itself.

Often these all in one volumes are printed on poor quality paper, and have poor bindings - happily this is very much not the case here. The paper used has a silky feel, and you feel confident that the quality binding will keep the book intact for many years.

Considering it's full retail price is about $30, the $17 price tag is great, adding to the value of this edition.

If you are looking for a collector edition quality version of these novels, you won't go far wrong.

The only better version I've come across is at Eastern Press, who usually charge at least $40 per book (sometimes as much as $60) - but their books are only for the most anal of collectors.

I only mention them for those that have been disappointed with collector editions of other great fantasy novels, such as Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, and The Hobbit - as well as an awesome version of the Altas of Middle Earth, or Ursula Le Guin's Earthsea series.

Once upon a time..., December 17, 2005
C.S. Lewis was many things - a popular theologian (almost a contradiction in terms today), an engaging academic (see above qualification, as it applies here, too), and an expert storyteller, the craft of which came from his careful blending and imaginative use of the previous two. The Chronicles of Narnia stand up favourable to the work of Lewis' longtime friend and contemporary academic and storyteller, Tolkien (of Lord of the Rings fame). Narnia, however, does not go off into the same fantastic realms of Tolkien, but rather charts a different path, in that while Tolkien strives to use fantasy and mythic elements to tell more general philosophy, Lewis in the Narnia tales deliberately crafts the imagery to fit a Christian framework, and a fairly Anglo-catholic one at that.

Narnia is series of adventures for children, but like the best of such stories, continues to hold power for adults who read them as well. Resurgence in popularity of late has occurred because of the film, 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe', second in the series (depending upon which chronology one follows), but the whole series is a charmer. In 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe', the story focuses upon Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy, four exiles from war-time London in the English countryside who discover the portal to Narnia in the back of a mysterious wardrobe. The king of Narnia, Aslan the lion (whose imagery fits both Christian and English mythic lore) is battling the icy witch, who styles herself as Queen of Narnia. Through a classic struggle of good and evil in epic battle format, the pure-hearted children and the graceful king Aslan win the day, but eventually the children must return to their own world, even after such adventures.

'Prince Caspian' takes place long after (in Narnia time - one discovers the passage of time from one world to the next is variable), as Caspian befriends many of the creatures of Narnia, both natural and fantastic. The four children, enthroned as kings and queens of Narnia at the end of the first adventure, must return to help Caspian, whose main desire is to live in old Narnia, forbidden tales of which he has heard.

'Voyage of the Dawn' sees Edmund and Lucy drawn back into Narnia through a painting, together with their horrid cousin Eustace Scrubb. Caspian is now king, on a knightly quest to discover lost knights of old, and also to seek the end of the world (in a literal sense). Sea voyages and other journeys take them far and wide, until Aslan again appears to return the children home. Eustace becomes a better person for his Narnia adventures, much as Edmund had transformed during his first major Narnia experience.

Eustace returns in the 'The Silver Chair', this time from his school, with fellow student Jill, who is also less than popular. Jill, like the earlier Edmund, must find redemption, and seeks to save Rilian (son of the now-dying Caspian). Here we encounter the Parliament of Owls as well as the bottom of the world - once again, Aslan helps to save the day, despite the nay-saying of Puddleglum.

Shasta is the boy and Bree is the horse in 'The Horse and His Boy'. Shasta is about to be sold into slavery when he escapes with Bree, and they meet Aravis and Hwin, another escaping duo, on their way to Narnia. They uncover a plot against Narnia, and must work to save the kingdom of their dreams.

'The Magician's Nephew' is often considered the first of the series, with events that preceed 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe'. It gives background and insight into the overall workings of Narnia. Polly and Digory discover the portal to the Woods between the Worlds, and there is a greater mix of worlds here than in any other story. However, this is also the beginning of the other stories, with Aslan providing the same kind of guidance he would throughout the series.

'The Last Battle' is, as the title suggests, the last of the series. Narnia falls into the final conflict of good and evil, with a false Aslan (a false messiah figure) appearing and humans destroying all things around, particularly the natural environment. Old Narnia must pass away, but a new Narnia is held in promise as the real Aslan returns to lead the faithful.

While many of Lewis' original readers were occasionally disturbed by the Christian overall (and indeed, at Lewis' interpretation of Christian lore), in fact the state of biblical illiteracy is such today that most will miss much of the Christian allegory unless it is specially spelled out. Narnia can stand on its own merits as a story independent of its underpinnings, but just as most mythological and even biblical stories can achieve, this one becomes stronger the deeper one explores the symbolic meanings.

Lewis is very much a creature of his culture - this is very post-Victorian (read, more Victorian than the Victorians) in style and morals, even in the 1950s (a time so many in our present culture look back to as a high point in moral culture) he was looking back to a better time - perhaps it is no surprise that instead of finding it in the past, he found it in Narnia?

This is a series that is wonderful for children of all ages, and for adults - the tales bear repeating over and over, and many editions of these texts come with wonderful artwork. This particular one has illustrations by Pauline Baynes, the original illustrator for the series, and they are wonderful indeed.

Million Word Project, April 2, 2006
The first time I read these books I was about 8 years old in the third grade. At the time they were nothing more than fantasy books that we would read together as a class. When we completed the last book we simly set it aside and moved on to other projects and to be completely honest I havent thought about these books since. That was nine years ago.

After seeing the new movie based on one of these books I had an urge to re-read them all. After re-reading them I realized that I totally missed some major underlying concepts the first time around. Mainly, the Christian undertones and the remarkable similarilty to The Bible.

The Magician's Nephew (the first book in the series - well, the sixth actually) reads like the first Book of Genesis. In this book Aslan creates Narnia in the same manner as our own Earth was created by God, with the Apple of Life being a parallel to the forbidden fruit of the Tree of Knowledge. As well as King Frank and Queen Helen (the first rulers of Narnia) as Adam and Eve.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe contain characters who prominantly "resemble" Bible characters: Edmund being a Judas of sorts, Peter as St. Peter, and Susan and Lucy being Mary Magdalene and the other Mary (due to the fact that they are the first to see Aslan's resurrection). There are also parallels between the Last Supper, the cruxificiton and resurrection of Christ - with Aslan portraying Jesus as the "son of the Emporer beyond the Sea", i.e. God.

In the end of The Voyage of the Dawn Treader Aslan appears as a lamb - an image of Jesus. When questioned by Edmund as to whether or not he exists in the real world Aslan states that "I am... but there I have another name. You must learn to know me by that name. This was the very reason why you were brought to Narnia, that by knowing me here for a little, you may know me better there". When put together with the image of the lamb this is evidence that in our world we know Aslan as "Jesus".

In addition three groups in the book seek out the Eastern Land; Aslan's land. As a parallel for the search of the Holy Grail, King Caspian (Lancelot) turned back in sight of the Last Sea, the Pevensie children (Percival) are sent back to the realm of men, and Reepicheep the talking mouse (Galahad) disappears into Aslan's country.

As The Last Battle concludes Aslan judges all those who remain in Narnia prior to him destroying Naria. Those who were loyal to him get to travel to his own country (Heaven) and those who were not must remain in Narnia. A prime interpretation of the Book of Revealations and Judgement Day.

While I never fully understood these books when I was younger I think, now, that they are a pretty good tool for teaching children the concepts of The Bible. I would recomment this book(s) for anyone who wants to learn about The Bible without having to actually read The Bible or anyone who just wants a good fantasy read.

Superb., October 27, 2005
When I was 8, my mother read all of the Chronicles of Narnia books to me before bedtime. I loved them, read them over and over in elementary school, and promptly forgot about them for about 10 years. Recently, I got a the "all in one edition" as a gift, and fell back into Narnia's grasp. The books are not complicated, and may turn off some people because of that simplicity. But therein lies, in my view, the greatest strength of the story. I won't bother to rehash the plots, because it is likely that you already know them. The allegorical themes touch on the essence of who Jesus Christ is, and what it means to be a follower of Him. I know some will stop reading right now and declare this review crap because of the mention of God, but these books are more than worth your time.

Ian Myles Slater on: All Seven at One Blow?, December 20, 2005
In a review of Paul F. Ford's "Companion to Narnia," I described the "Chronicles" as the seven fantasy novels into which Lewis poured vividly recreated borrowings from the literature he himself loved. There are Talking Animals (non-human intelligences fascinated him from childhood, and contributed to his interest in science fiction). There are elements from Classical and Norse Myths, Medieval Romances, and Renaissance Epics. There are themes from Victorian and Edwardian writers, like William Morris and E. Nesbit (both socialists; so much for any notion of Lewis the arch-reactionary), and scenes from H. Rider Haggard's Lost-World adventures (and perhaps glimpses of his soul-devouring immortal beauties), concepts from George MacDonald's Fairy Tales for Adults and Children, and images from Arthur Rackham's illustrations of Wagner. "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" seems to combine William Morris with the medieval Irish "The Voyage of St. Brendan," containing a mixture of idealized politics, vivid realistic details, and moral explications of strange events on increasingly exotic islands.

It is a world in which Jakob and Wilhelm Grimm would have had to invent Oral History instead of Folklore: the adventures of "The Brave Little Tailor" ("Das tapfere Schneiderlein") of the grand boast (see title of review) *almost* might have taken place in some forgotten Narnian borderland. A world in which Bacchus is somehow a (probably tipsy) ally of Father Christmas; and, as Lewis first intended, it is perfectly natural for a Faun to be walking through the winter woods with an armload of brown-paper parcels, carrying an umbrella, wearing a woolen muffler, and trying to keep his tail out of the snow.

And, oh yes, charging in as if on its own, a version of basic Christian stories and doctrines, mostly in the form of Aslan the Lion, Son of the Emperor-beyond-the-Sea. (Or "over the Sea," and further variants -- Lewis was not overly concerned about consistent nomenclature, or hyphenation, among other lapses in method to which his old friend Tolkien took exception.) You can call it allegory or symbolism; but the books are not *strict* allegories, in the "Pilgrim's Progress" mode. (Well, except for a few sections which *can* be read that way; again, consistency isn't the strongest point.)

It is Aslan who looks out from the jacket of this HarperCollins one-volume edition of all seven (at one blow, so to speak). To the exclusion of a dense cast of humans ("Sons of Adam and Daughters of Eve"), Talking Beasts, Centaurs and Nymphs, Dwarfs and Underland Gnomes, surface-visiting Mer-People and deep-dwelling Sea People, Dragons, Giants, Dryads, Maenads, and many others. Plus some less immediately recognizable (but memorable) beings, Lewis's own creations, notably the Marshwiggles. (Or should that be "Marsh-wiggles"?

{Note; the Aslan cover was also used for the trade paperback version of this omnibus, so I didn't make a distinction on first reviewing the volume; I have since noticed that recent printings of the trade paperback have a movie-tie-in cover, with the White Witch -- attractive, but rather less appropriate for the whole series.}

Narnia is only one of the lands visited in the course of the stories, although it has a central place, and, with its neighbor and ally Archenland, is the only region for which we are given anything approaching a history to be in a Chronicle. One running all the way from Creation (actually before!) to Apocalypse -- "Urzeit und Endzeit," in the German phrase -- especially in the "official," rather than the publication, order of the books.

The author wrote the seven novels in short chapters, suitable for reading aloud (he compared it to the discipline of writing sonnets), and many younger children have encountered them in this way; but the books themselves were also intended to be looked at. Indeed, Lewis insisted on picking the illustrator, settling on the young woman who had brilliantly illuminated Tolkien's "Farmer Giles of Ham" a few years before. (And, despite a pose as a crusty old bachelor, he soon found himself too enchanted by her to raise objections to her work when he really wanted to; he didn't like her excessively plain children, or, worse, her lions...)

However, many tween- and teenagers, and a lot of adults, have found Narnia enjoyable reading on their own. The Christian element is so unobtrusive that many readers have failed to notice it until it was pointed out, although I continue to be surprised by the fact. Even if "The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe" didn't contain enough clues from the Gospels, surely "The Magician's Nephew" had enough from Genesis (if not so much from Milton, who dominated Lewis' 1943 science fiction novel, "Perelandra") to set off alarms. Then again, how many people really, really noticed, or above all cared, that "The Lion King" is "Hamlet with Animals"?

Well, I recognized the doctrinal side early on, although I didn't think much about it for years. Not until I encountered some of the theology that Lewis was drawing on, buried in R.W. Southern's "The Making of the Middle Ages," and recognized with a start that the odd soteriology in Narnia might be pre-Anselmian, not Lewis's original simplification-for-children. (A matter worth attention only to those who don't need it explained, I assure you!) I will return below to a consideration of the contents, and what issues, if any, they pose.

As for packaging, alongside single volumes in hardcover, mass-market, and trade paperbacks, and boxed sets of these, there seem to be two omnibus editions of the "Chronicles of Narnia" currently available. One is this 778-page monolith (including an essay by the author) from 2004, and the other is "The Complete Chronicles of Narnia" published in 1998, which is a "mere" 528 pages. And I am not quite sure which of the possible markets for the stories either of the omnibuses is aimed at; although having seven titles neatly bundled together does sound good, and one thick book probably looks far less "childish" -- indeed, without the jacket, the 2004 edition looks more like a college history text, and a rather dull one at that. Which perhaps goes along with the present "Editorial Review" description of this edition as "for adults" -- in a sense of "adult" (very concerned with being thought "grown up") of which Lewis disapproved!

The 2004 version is mainly a straightforward compilation of the currently standard texts, established in 1994 on the basis of the Geoffrey Bles editions of the 1950s, unfortunately discarding the revisions that Lewis had made for the early American editions, along with their poorly-rendered art and some typographical errors. Black-and-white art includes full-page frontispieces or illustrated title pages, maps, and small chapter head illustrations; those illustrations by Pauline Baynes which are included are restored to their original clarity.

Baynes' own color art for the stories, in the form of dust-jackets, is omitted, which is understandable. More serious is the silent disappearance of the great many Baynes illustrations from *within* the chapters; with no reason (good or bad) offered. (Presumably it is to save space.) For those who like Baynes' work (at least on the whole -- Lewis was right about it having strengths and weaknesses) this is a minus. It would have been nice (not to say more truthful) if the omission was more clearly acknowledged, if only for those who don't know that they exist. Of course, some who know them may not miss them!

The 1998 "Complete" version, based on the same state of the text, achieved its compression of the apparent length by the use of double columns. Colored borders, and colored renditions of ALL of Pauline Baynes' original black-and-white illustrations, make that edition visually attractive. I am not sure that the eye-appeal would stand up well to prolonged reading. And, frankly, I am not sure than even the 1998 volume is small enough to be child-friendly. Of course, that is assuming that someone wants to let a younger child handle its bright (others might say gaudy) pages.

If one insists on "colorized" art, it is available in other, "deluxe" editions of the individual titles, as well, some with Pauline Baynes' own dust-jacket art used for the covers, and no sign of textbook-ish columns of type. These seem to me to be more truly "user-friendly." And there are editions with the black-and-white art left as it was (although rather badly reproduced in some instances). I got the 1970s printings of the Puffin (Penguin) paperbacks partly for the relatively clean reproduction of the art, and have returned to them many times over the years. Comparing editions may be the only safe test.

The adult planning on reading aloud to one or more younger children from either of these omnibus editions may also want to ponder the difficulty of making clear that there are seven distinct stories, and that one of them has been completed, even though there is a lot of the book left. In addition, whether one is reading silently or aloud, the option of following the original order instead of the chronological one is a bit more difficult when the latter is almost imposed by the binding. (They are here ordered as: "The Magician's Nephew" [1955]; "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" [1950]; "The Horse and His Boy" [1954] "Prince Caspian" (1951]; "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" [1952]; "The Silver Chair" [1953]; and "The Last Battle" [1956]. "The Horse and His Boy" was actually written just before "The Silver Chair," and, not surprisingly, they share some shifts in Lewis' point of view; also with "Magician's Nephew" and "Last Battle," which themselves share information not found in the now intervening books, where it would have been relevant.)

Of course, if you are considering it for children, the first thing to consider at all is whether to embark on such a reading.

Now, leaving aside those who just don't enjoy them, there are rival choruses of hostility to the Narnia books: from those who object to ANY injection of Christianity, and from those who find its Christian message too lukewarm, disguised, and horribly ecumenical. And then there are those who think that it is actively pagan, or Satanic; proving, I suppose, that some things really are in the eyes and hearts of readers. (Those seriously interested in disputing Lewis as a theologian -- a legitimate concern -- focus their attention on his explicit statements in readily-available books like "Mere Christianity," although even there his striving to be "Broad Church," and his consciousness of history, make him an easy target for those who want narrower definitions.)

One odd note among the objections is the claim that Lewis celebrated war and violence in the stories. A veteran of World War I in the trenches (and almost all of his friends were dead by the end of it), Lewis makes it clear enough he thinks fighting a grim and unpleasant business, but -- writing post-1945, after making a first attempt in 1939 -- sometimes a necessary one.

More plausible is the charge of sexism -- which in fact is there, although it moderates in the course of the series. (Particularly if one follows the writing-and-publication order, rather than the internal chronology; "The Silver Chair," "The Horse and His Boy," "The Magician's Nephew," and "The Last Battle" are rather different on this point from the earlier-written volumes among which they have been dispersed.) And the charge could be applied to almost all the literature of the past. In Narnia it is subtle enough that I doubt any child is going to be indoctrinated by it -- particularly since Lewis made an effort to portray overtly sexist males (not that he would have called them that!) as either foolish or unpleasant, and usually both. Many of his unconscious assumptions and expressions seem a bit archaic, but anyone wanting a book that teaches girls to be properly "girlish" had better look elsewhere!

Some regard Lewis's portrayal of the Calormene Empire, the Kingdom of Narnia's hostile neighbor, as racist, or anti-Muslim, or both. This deserves an essay in itself; suffice it to say that he went to some lengths to make it as pagan (rather than Muslim) as possible, although it does seem to reflect old European fears of the Ottoman Empire. Of course, if one insists on the resemblance, it should be said that two of Lewis's most attractive human characters are Calormenes; in a series in which human beings are only one of a multitude of rational species, and respect for intelligent beings of *any* shape is a primary lesson.

The complete set hard bound, in order, excellent, February 5, 2005
This complete collection of the Chronicles of Narnia includes all the stories put together in the order in which C. S. Lewis meant them to be read instead of the order in which they were published. For example The Magician's Nephew was written several years after The Chronicles of Narnia was started but was meant to be read first. In this collection it is placed first as Mr. Lewis meant it to be read. In addition it includes a short essay from C. S. Lewis on the subject of Writing for Children. This is a massive work of almost 800 pages.

Most readers will be at least somewhat familiar with The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe as it has been in several smaller children's books and even some television specials, but it is only the beginning of the Chronicles of Narnia. The complete chronicles include The Magician's Nephew, The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, The Horse and His Boy, Prince Caspian, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, The Silver Chair, and The Last Battle.

This is a high quality hardbound book that will survive the typical abuse of children when reading it. If you liked The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe you will love the complete collection. The Chronicles of Narnia, one of the all-time classics of children literature, is a highly recommended read and this publication of it should be considered for all public libraries and private collections.

My Favorite, April 24, 2006
The chronicles of Narnia books are some of the best books i've ever read. And i'm a person who loves reading, and I do a lot of it, so that is saying a lot. in the chronicles of narnia, you feel so happy while you're reading it. it's really for any age of people. i have loved narnia ever since i have been little. so if your unsure about it, don't be. it is a great classic that you'll want for a life time. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

Wonderful upgrade to the historic Children's Picture Bible, September 8, 2010

"Steel Yourself for Action...", September 8, 2010

Hard to read but beautifully illustrated, October 12, 2010

Exciting, Action Packed Storybook Bible, September 2, 2010

Lush comic adaptation of a classic., August 31, 2010

Stunning Children's Bible!, August 26, 2010
When I was reading this Bible, my 9-year old cousin came up to me and said "what are you reading?" "The Bible," I told him. "The Bible's boring," he retorted. "Not this one - here, take a look." He sat down with me, looked at it a bit, and then agreed that this Bible is definitely NOT boring.

The first thing that you notice about The Action Bible is how visually impressive it is - the colors are rich and bold, and makes the characters come alive in a very real way. A few times, I even caught myself saying "wow, I've never pictured it that way before!" The illustrations are beautiful, especially in stories like Noah's Ark, the Garden of Eden, and Jesus walking on the water.

The stories are paced very well, and flow from one into the next easily. I was engrossed in the stories immediately, and they flew by quickly. They're perfect for kids, but also have some unexpected humor in them, as well. A few times I even found myself laughing out loud, which I rarely do while reading.

I would absolutely recommend this as a great beginner's Bible for kids, although I think that the "4-8" age range might be a little young. I would say that it's more suited for ages 6 and up, since there are a few more intense moments (Cain killing Abel, Lot's escape from Sodom, etc.). Other than that, very highly recommended.

Addendum to this review:
I showed it to a 25 year-old friend of mine, as well, who is now convinced that it is the best thing ever.

It's ALL about Jesus!!!, October 2, 2010
The Gospel is simple. It is in a language that ALL can understand.This book helps telling the Good News through pictures in a comic bookformat, put together as a trade paperback. Great tool to share the true storyof Love and Salvation that can only come by THE WAY, THE TRUTH and THE LIFE: Jesus Christ, the MESSIAH and Jesus Christ, the Creator of ALL thingsin Heaven and on Earth, who brings ALL things in accordance to His Sovereign WILL.He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

Great Art and Respect for the Material make this a Winner, September 17, 2010

Quality Kids Bible, August 26, 2010

Great book, August 26, 2010

Editorial Review

The best-selling Bible storybook of our time -- over 5 million sold! Introduce children to the stories of the Bible through vibrant art and compelling text--it's full of life and fun!

Introduce children to the stories and characters of the Bible with this best-loved Bible storybook. With vibrant art and compelling text, more than 90 Bible stories come to life. Kids ages 6 and under will enjoy the fun illustrations of Noah helping the elephant onto the ark, Jonah praying inside the fish, and more, as they discover The Beginner's Bible� just like millions of children before. The Beginner's Bible� is the 2006 Retailers Choice Award winner in Children's Nonfiction. ... Read more

Reviews

Don't Be Fooled, January 3, 2006
For those who enjoyed the Beginner's Bible by Karyn Henley, this is NOT it! I gave Karyn's bible to my son seven years ago and was looking for a replacement for my daughter. I bought this bible by mistake because the illistrations and title were so similar and have been hugely disappointed. It lacks depth and purpose in the stories. This book might as well been written by an athiest who can spout out a story line but lacks any genuine understanding behind the story. If looking for a children's bible I strongly recommend finding a Beginner's Bible by Karen Henley (used or new) rather than settling for this or any other children's edition that reduces these stories to a trite sequence of events.

Nice, but Lacking, July 12, 2006
It is a good Bible for children who are learning to read, but not suitable for reading and teaching accurate bible history or lessons to young school age children. The stories are simplistic, and, as one reviewer suggested, kind of "leave you hanging". The illustrations are also simple, and very "cartoonish". Also, many good Bible stories are missing altogether.
If you want an accurate, easy to understand, complete Bible Story book with beautiful, "true to the times" illustrations, I suggest the "Children's Bible in 365 Stories" by Mary Batchelor. I bought that along with this one, and we liked that one much better.

Excellent in every way, June 21, 2007
This Bible has been the perfect teaching tool for my child. The illustrations are vibrant and engaging, the text is appropriate for young readers, and the division of stories comes at the right spacing for brief attention spans. This is not a literal, word-per-word excerpt from the Bible, but rather a paraphrasing into not only vocabulary but tone that is just right for children. I have begun to purchase this and give it out to friends with new babies, in hopes that their kids will grow up with this text too. A great version of the Bible.

James W. Miller is the author of God Scent

Great Kids Bible with Multicultural Illustrations!, November 1, 2005
I bought this as a baptism gift for my nephew, and I was SO happy to find it. The stories are simple, but still comprehensive and interesting, and the pictures are really compelling. I looked at a lot of illustrated bibles for children, and this was the only one I found with multicultural drawings, which was really important to me. I didn't want to buy my nephew a book that depicted all of God's children as blonde, blue-eyed Caucasians. This bible has great stories AND great pictures and I absolutely recommend it.

Terrific starter Bible for kids 2 to 7, November 11, 2006
The Beginners Bible picks out the popular events of the Old and New Testament and is written in simple easy-to-understand way for kids 2 years old to about 7 years old. The illustrations are wonderfully done and my daughter and I read it at least twice over when she was about 3.

Superb children's Bible, September 7, 2007
I researched a LOT of (children's) Bibles before buying this one - and I can tell you this one is simply the best. The illustrations are outstanding and the associated text with each picture is very pleasant to read to our five year old every night.

The Beginner's Bible: Timeless Children's Stories, May 15, 2007
Many Bible stories have serious and often brutal content --- floods, rains of fire, disfiguring disease, sacrifice, mauling by lions, and human torture. Remembering fearful thoughts in my own childhood after hearing these stories and seeing pictures in a family Bible storybook, I really searched for a way to introduce my grandson to a loving God. This simple little book is colorful, accurate, entertaining and has more emphasis on the wonder and miracles of God than the evil in the world. There is plenty of time for my grandson to learn about that! Highly recommended for the pre-schooler and early reader.

The Beginner's Bible, May 7, 2007
What a wonderful book for grades Pre-K through 4. My children can't wait until it is their turn to read a chapter out loud. The stories relate to what is learned in church school, as well as what is told at Mass on Sunday. I highly recommend one for each child in the family, and then save them as they get older for your children's children. Great colorful illustrations and nice size print.

A fantastic children's bible - highly recommended!, January 29, 2007
I am studying to be a primary teacher and saw this book used in a prep classroom. I think it's one of the best comprehensive versions of the Bible for children complete with simple language and colourful illustrations. It's a fantastic resource and the story's are told effectively. A great buy!

A Great Book for Children, February 24, 2006
I bought 2 books for my grandchildren, 7 and 4 1/2 years old, both readers. They love the book, the 7 years old in just to 2 weeks complete reding it. Beautiful ilustrations, bright colors and easy vocabulary. I am a techer and I highly recommend this book as the first bible. A way to introduce our faith in our bedtime routime. My son and daughter in law said it was one of the best gift the children have received. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Every Story Whispers His NameThe award-winningJesus Storybook Bible invites children to discover---through full-color illustrations and three read-along CDs---that Jesus is at the center of God's great story of salvation... and at the center of their story, too. This beautifully crafted deluxe edition, with ribbon marker and audio CDs, is a wonderful gift and sure to become a family treasure. ... Read more

Reviews

Wow! and Wow!, October 12, 2009
As a grandmother of six, I'm always on the search for edifying Christ-centered material, which is why I bought the Jesus Storybook Bible for my little darlings...Then I heard David Suchet's reading of it and this wonderful book, which had already earned a "Wow!" from me got another really big "Wow!"...and so, it's a good thing that I can order with one-click because I ordered copies for the kids (again!) and for my pal the preschool teacher and for...and for...
Really, Suchet's readings made these stories spring to life and I've put them on my MP3 player and listen in the grocery store and at night when I can't sleep and when I'm on the airplane and need to be reminded of God's great love for me in Christ Jesus, my Rescuer.
You really must get this -- even if you don't have little ones. The child He calls you as needs to hear the story again and again.

I love, love, love this children's Bible!, October 27, 2009
I got this last week and we've been listening to the stories in the car. Everyone is captivated! The car gets so quiet so we can all listen (adults and kids alike). The narrator did a wonderful job. I've given out well over a dozen copies of the Jesus Storybook Bible and now I will most definitely switch to buying and gifting the Deluxe Edition.

Great Way for Kids to Learn Bible Stories, October 26, 2009
This Bible was recommended to me by a friend, and I'm so glad I bought it. There are so many different Bibles for kids, and it's hard to know which ones to buy. This one is fantastic! It's written in a way that kids understand and has wonderful illustrations.

Best Children's Bible Out there, March 18, 2010
The Deluxe Edition is a complete package of the reading on CDs and a read-along book. And, since we've put the girls to bed and down for naps with books on CDs since they were old enough to hold the book, I knew this set would be right up their alley. I must admit that when I received the book, just before Christmas, I set Emma up with the book and CD's and saved my reading with her for something that she couldn't do on her own. However, when I picked the book up to review, I decided that it was something that we needed to read together.

It is a nice bonus that the reader is David Suchet, one of Great Britain's most distinguished actors, best known for playing Agatha Christie's super-sleuth, Hercule Poirot. Since Emma finds a British accent as one of the upmost pleasurable things in life (apparently all princesses have British accents), she was hooked upon hearing the first lines of the introduction..

Illustrated by award winning, Jago, the illustrations are whimsical interpretations that serve to help bring the stories alive. While I know that illustrations are an important part of wrapping children into a book, personally, I am typically drawn to the words without paying much attention to the illustrations. However, Jago's illustrations are so truly captivating and compliment the story so well, that I found myself reading the story through the pictures before I even began reading the words. I also found myself flipping back through to admire his artwork (something I do very rarely).

Those elements alone are worth the cost of the book. But, most surprisingly, I found the most beautiful description of the way that I want my children to view the Bible, right within the first pages of the book.

It's taken all of my will power not to write the whole introduction right here and now. But, please allow me to share just a couple of pieces in which Sally Lloyd-Jones seemed to have looked straight into my heart and somehow put the passion that I have for my children to know God as a loving and compassionate father into words that I had not yet found.

Sally Lloyd-Jones writes:
"The Bible isn't mainly about you and what you should be doing. It's about God and what he has done."

"Now, some people think the Bible is a book of rules, telling you what you should and shouldn't do. The Bible certainly does have some rules in it. They show you how life works best. But the Bible isn't mainly about you and what you should be doing. It's about God and what he has done.

Other people think the Bible is a book of heroes, showing you people you should copy. The Bible does have some heroes in it, but (as you'll soon find out) most of the people in the Bible aren't heroes at all. They make some big mistakes (sometimes on purpose), they get afraid and run away. At times, they're downright mean.

No, the Bible isn't a book of rules, or a book of heroes. The Bible is most of all a Story. It's an adventure story about a young Hero who comes from a far country to win back his lost treasure. It's a love story about a brave Prince who leaves his palace, his throne-everything-to rescues the ones he loves. It's like the most wonderful of fairy tales that has come true in real life".

I completely agree with Dr. Tim Keller's endorsement of the book below:

"I would urge not just families with young children to get this book, but every Christian--from pew warmers, to ministry leaders, seminarians and even theologians! Sally Lloyd-Jones has captured the heart of what it means to find Christ in all the scriptures, and has made clear even to little children that all God's revelation has been about Jesus from the beginning--a truth not all that commonly recognized even among the very learned." -- Dr. Tim Keller, Redeemer, NY, NY

Overall, it's wonderful!, August 5, 2010
I echo Mr. Weise's words in another four star review (the only at the time of this writing). We just finished reading this to our children and I am impressed with much of it. The most amazing part of the book is that it shows how everything in the Word of God points to Christ! It's really ALL about Jesus! John 1:1 says that from the beginning was the Word, and the Word was WITH God, and the Word was God! Genesis 1:26 talks about making man in OUR image. Who exactly is "our"? :) There are several other examples like that sprinkled in scripture.

Sadly, most professing Christians don't realize that everything points to Christ. Even among Creation, we see how it all points to Christ. Everything absolutely points to Him. (In case I didn't make that clear...just kidding.)

That's what is exciting about this book from Sally Lloyd-Jones, because we finally have a storybook that more accurately portrays that message from the Word of God in a teachable way for children! There were some stories that the way it was told, we didn't see the story from that perspective before, because I didn't know those little tid bits from history of that time. So that was wonderful, even for us as adults. :)

Another great aspect of this book are the most beautifully done photos! They are rich in color that captivates the whole family's attention. Well done, Jago!

The narrator for the CDs does a fabulous job of narrating!! We just love listening to the stories in the car. Not to mention, it makes for a peaceful ride, because everyone is so captivated by the stories and voice of the narrator, David Suchet, we all listen intently. The audio CD idea was a wonderful addition to this book and worth the slightly extra cost!

Aside from those wonderful aspects of the book, Sally Lloyd-Jones comes from a minor different theological belief than we do, and so we had to further explain things to our children in the way we understand the scripture to teach. SLJ comes from a reformed Presbyterian background, while we tend to be reformed Baptists. Very minor differences and certainly nothing we would ever break fellowship over with our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, so I still highly recommend this book. As with any book, parents should be in the scriptures themselves, studying the Word of God, so they can teach their children the truth of God's Word. We study the text ahead of time, preferably, and teach more in our time of family worship.

Additionally, I did feel SLJ could have used the words of Jesus, rather than "sugarcoating" some of the text to make it more "child-friendly". Children are able to grasp more than we give them credit for. Plus, when the adult reads from the actual Word of God, they learn to understand those words, and so any children's book should continue with those words, but preferrably with a child-friendly explanation of the word/text. That's just me. I tend to like Bible storybook: A complete narration from Genesis to Revelation for young and old, because of this. While I had to do the same with the wording in that book, as I do with this one, it was also written at the turn of the last century, so it is to be expected. SLJs book is more of a storybook Bible to show that every story does whisper His name, but Egermeirer's book is a storybook of the whole Bible, so I think both are an equally wonderful addition to reading the Bible with your children. If only I could bring both strengths of each book together...maybe I should write a children's storybook Bible? :) (As if I had the time...)

Overall, I absolutely recommend this book and especially recommend getting the CD edition, rather than just the book! :)

Best Children's Devotional Bible We've Found, December 4, 2009
This is truly the best children's devotional Bible we've found, and we've searched high and low. This book brings Jesus to the forefront of every Bible story in unique ways (all very Scriptural), from Genesis to Revelations. We've read it cover to cover no less than five times, and our children look forward to it every night. They each have their favorite stories and frequently request them. I'm amazed at the biblical truths my 5- and 3-year-olds have picked up from listening to these sweet devotionals. And I must say that the stories speak to Mom and Dad, too. I've found my heart touched, my spirit lifted, and my mind convicted quite a few times while reading this book to my children. We love it so much that we've purchased a second copy just in case our first copy wears out. Get it. You won't regret it.

Jesus Storybook Bible Deluxe, February 17, 2010
One word...."WOW"!
Absolutely captivating, outstanding and beautifully illustrated.
Even after reading through the reviews did I expect it to be so mesmerizing!!
It comes with 3 Cd's in a gorgeous case and the hardcover book with a lovely blue ribbon marker so you don't loose your place, it also has a lovely case to keep both the book and Cd's in. The book is 348 beautifully illustrated pages for children and not just paper but a type of very thin acrylic so you don't stain them with dirty fingers. My grandsons and I are able to enjoy the deluxe edition as we can sit together listening to the CD while we go along with it to the pages, we'll have close time now! You will definitely not be disappointed you really need to buy this, it's well under priced, it's truly a godsend! I also have to give credit to Amazon as I ordered it and the very next day it was at my doorstep! Wow, best purchase I have ever made!!

Fantastic (for All Ages), February 16, 2010
My son is a little over a year old now. One of the things I most looked forward to about becoming a dad was the chance to share the truth about God and Christ with my children through the scriptures. As we asked around, we kept hearing about The Jesus Storybook Bible, by Sally Lloyd-Jones. Everyone (even some friends of ours who didn't even have kids yet) said it was an amazing Bible. We picked up a copy for ourselves, and I then had the opportunity to get a deluxe edition from the publisher. Based on everything I'd heard, I jumped at the chance.

The first thing that struck me about the Bible was the subtitle, "Every Story Whispers His Name." All Christians have likely heard at some point that all of the Bible, the Old Testament sacrifices, the prophets, the Psalms, all of it, points to Christ. This is true, but many people have never connected a lot of the dots. As I began working through The Storybook Bible, I was amazed at how clear these connections to Jesus were made through every story. From the Fall, the Flood, the sacrificial system...every story is about Christ in some way. I can understand why some of my friends have used the Bible for themselves even though they don't have kids. Truths are illuminated in The Storybook Bible in such a clear way that this would make a good devotional even for adults.

But, of course, its purpose is to make the truths of scripture clear to children. Being that my son is just over one year old, he obviously doesn't understand when we read the stories to him yet (and we don't turn the pages quite fast enough for him, either). I can already tell, though, what a blessing this book will be for my family. During Christmas this year, my brother-in-law read aloud the Christmas stories from the book to our whole family (they have a 4-year-old who understands the stories and enjoys them). I was deeply moved by the explanations of what Christ was doing by incarnating. The stories are made simple, and the simplicity magnifies their profound qualities. It's basically like being given the faith of a child again.

The main differences in the deluxe edition versus the original edition are that the cover is different and it comes with 3 CDs of the audio narrative. I didn't spend a ton of time listening to the audio, but the voiceover works great for kids to listen themselves. I think, however, the power of this book is experiencing it as a family with your children by reading to them. I can't wait for the day my son can understand the truths the book explains and depicts so well.

Better than most, February 28, 2010
We received The Jesus Storybook Bible as a gift a few months ago and I've been reading it to my children every night. Overall the book is excellent. Most children's storybooks tend to treat the Biblical stories (especially the Old Testament ones) as if they are primarily moral lessons. But The Jesus Storybook Bible shows us how all the stories point to Jesus. The book does a good job of communicating deep theological truths to children in an interesting way. The book is written by a Presbyterian and so I did have some problems with the way that the book presented the sacraments (Zwinglian). I ended up rewording some of the sentences when I read them to the children. There were some other problems I had with the way certain things were worded but overall the book is far better than most Bible storybooks and is at least a step in the right direction when teaching children how to read the Bible. Unfortunately most pastors don't seem to realize that the Bible is all about Jesus so I guess its no surprise that most Bible storybooks wouldn't get it either.

Theologically the best I've read!!!, December 13, 2009
This story is fantastic for showing the connection of both Old and New Testaments, as well as explaining that there was a plan from the beginning for everything from Genesis to Revelations. My husband and I read a story a night as part of our bedtime routine with our children, and have even gained new incite to the message of scripture ourselves. I love that it is written so simply, yet with great meaning and depth. We own many (as I love to sit in the kids section of our local Lifeway and check them over for hours) Bible story books, but none compare to the flow and purposefulness of this one. It is a must have! ... Read more

Editorial Review

The creators of the New York Times best-selling Encyclopedia Prehistorica series offer a mythic look at the mysteries of the past with an entire pantheon of remarkable pop-ups.

For all of recorded history, humans have sought to understand Earth’s mysteries in the realm of the divine — and aspired to conduct themselves as heroes. Only gods, of course, could push the sun across the sky,forge entire continents, and impel mountains to touch the clouds. In this stunning volume, the incomparable team of Matthew Reinhart and Robert Sabuda take us to Ra-Atum’s land in Ancient Egypt; above the Grecian clouds to Zeus’s Mount Olympus; up to Norse god Odin’s frozen north; to the Far East, where the Jade Emperor sits in the heavens; into the wilds of Oceania, where Pele’s volcanic rage simmers below the earth; and to many more lands and times, all rich with sacred myths and legends. ... Read more

Reviews

The Best One Yet, January 21, 2010
I have collected pop-up books for over 30 years. This is the best one yet! It is a combination of imaginative and mind boggling artwork. The illustrations combined with information works to a great degree for all ages. I highly recommend this as a great gift for anyone for yourself or a loved one.
Sara F.

An irresistible treasure and a very special look at the stories and figures of ancient and indigenous mythology, June 14, 2010
The myths of the ancient world hold much fascination for readers of all ages. Children especially seem drawn to tales of the Olympian deities, Viking legends and Mediterranean heroes. Couple this interest with the fantastic engineered paper books by Matthew Reinhart and Robert Sabuda, and you have a book kids can truly experience. In Encyclopedia Mythologica's GODS AND HEROES, the bestselling duo teams up again for a three-dimensional exploration of the tales of the ancient world.

The book starts in Egypt, and opening to the first page releases a large pop-up of the falcon-headed god Horus, son of Isis and Osiris and the god associated with the ancient pharaohs. A smaller page on this double-page spread tells Horus's story with several moving parts (look behind that for Imhotep's pyramid). Next it's off to Greece, where the castle of Mt. Olympus springs forth as does the legendary city of Atlantis and the figures of several Greek goddesses. The section on the "Kingdoms of the Mighty North" features a fierce Viking and a glimpse of Freyja as she leads her Valkyries into battle and a lovely pop-up illustration of the mythical cosmic ash tree called Yggdrasil.

Unlike so many children's books introducing mythology, GODS AND HEROES doesn't stop at Europe and Egypt but takes readers farther east to Asia and Oceania and to the Americas as well. Spider Woman, from Native American mythology, holds a web made of silvery thread, adding an interesting new textural element to the book. Refreshingly, Reinhart and Sabuda also give female deities and figures equal attention, like the violent Polynesian volcano goddess Pele, who seems to be spewing and flowing out of the volcano in the center of the page.

The text is both exciting and easy to understand; the Norse god Odin is introduced as the "grizzled lord of wisdom and magic." We are told that in the Iroquois story of the Celestial Woman, after falling from her home in the sky, "gazing up from below, a giant turtle took pity and softened her landing, while other beasts offered protection." The writing is just as illuminating, informative and enchanting as the visuals!

While young readers may be initially drawn to the amazing Viking ship and colorful Aztec-plumed serpent Quetzalcoatl, there are even more amazing delights hidden in the book. The story of Japanese folk hero Momotaro is secreted behind another pop-up panel, and a peach opens to reveal the tiny infant. This whimsical scene is one of the best in the book, and in just a few sentences readers will be intrigued by the charming tale.

As with other marvelous Reinhart and Sabuda books, this one may be easily damaged by little hands. Special care needs to be taken in turning pages or putting scenes back into folded place. But the construction is sturdier than you might think, and even if torn and worn over time, GODS AND HEROES is an irresistible treasure and a very special look at the stories and figures of ancient and indigenous mythology.

Heroic indeed!, January 19, 2010
WOW! Matthew Reinhart has done it again! He, along with partner Robert Sabuda have, in the past, set the standard for paper engineering and artwork in their amazing repertoire of pop-up books, and this time they may well have surpassed themselves. Each spread is a lavish display of technological creativity, while at the same time imparting facts and intriguing information with the text. The little side pages which one expects to see from these artists/authors is, in this case, each a little gem unto itself. This is an amazing book. It would spoil the fun for me to describe what you will find in between its covers. Instead, I encourage you to purchase this treasure and get the enjoyment of an amazing experience for yourself. I wish I could give it twenty stars. Bravo, Matthew Reinhart! See other favorites here: Star Wars: A Pop-Up Guide to the GalaxyCinderella: A Pop-Up Fairy Tale The Jungle Book: A Pop-Up Adventure (Classic Collectible Pop-Ups)A Pop-up Book of Nursery Rhymes (Limited Edition): A Classic Collectible Pop-Up

BEAUTIFUL!, October 1, 2010
This book is amazing! So much to see! Several different "pops" on every page. And just enough reading to give a good bit of background on the heroes and gods. Worth every single penny!

Another wonderful pop-up!, February 25, 2010
I absolutly love all the Sabuda and Reinhart pop-ups. Gods & Heroes is no exception- amazing detail, fun way to learn mythology. Many different cultures' mythology is included- Egyptian, Norse, Greek, Asian, South American & Native American. Would make a wonderful gift as well. A wonderful addition to my pop-up collection! ... Read more

Editorial Review

This book was converted from its physical edition to the digital format by a community of volunteers. You may find it for free on the web. Purchase of the Kindle edition includes wireless delivery. ... Read more

Reviews

reflective and worthwhile, November 6, 2010
The author takes some positions that are worth serious consideration. He examines all that is historically known about Jesus and reflects on the church of his time.
Church leaders of today might take similar positions and then might ask themselves why nothing has changed.

It's Free, But Full of Holes, December 25, 2010
Written in 2004, and reads as such. Treats a holy subject subjectively. and often washes dogma and tradition under a bridge. Conjecture without scriptural or scientific reasoning. It is free, and worth every penny.

... Read more

Editorial Review

In the first book of The Chronicles of Narnia, C.S. Lewis shows us how it all began -- the glorious birth of Narnia at the hand of its unforgettable King. It is followed by six more books that collectively tell the history of a world that has become as real as our own.

Reviews

In the beginning...., July 31, 2004
Whether you read these books chronologically (Narnian time):

The Magicians Nephew
The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe
The Horse and His Boy
Prince Caspian
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
The Silver Chair
The Last Battle

or in the order they were published:

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (1950)
Prince Caspian (1951)
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (1952)
The Silver Chair (1953)
The Horse and His Boy (1954)
The Magicians Nephew (1955)
The Last Battle (1956)

is entirely up to you.

Beginning at the beginning has always sounded like a good approach to me, hence this first review of the Narnia series.

Though written in simple style to be appreciated by young scholars, this book seems to echo with subtle and not so subtle references to the bible. A background check on the late great C. S. Lewis will reveal that he became a theist in 1929, a Christian in 1931, and later was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity by the University of St. Andrews in 1946.

His belief in the existence of one God, viewed as the creative source of man and the world, who transcends yet is immanent in the world, provides the foundation for the series, especially in this book and the magnificent classic "The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe." (Note: definition courtesy of Merriam-Webster)

"The Magician's Nephew" tells of the creation of Narnia by the great and powerful Aslan, and the temptation of a son of Adam, by a deceiver, with an apple from a forbidden tree.

This is the story of Digory and Polly, two friends who, upon an accidental meeting with Magician wanna-be Uncle Andrew, find themselves in a head spinning adventure involving other worlds, magical rings, an evil sorceress, a cabby and his horse, talking animals, and a collection of fauns, satyrs, dwarves and naiads.

We learn about the first King and Queen of Narnia, a heroic quest, a miraculous cure, and the planting of a tree and a lamp post, both of which we will need to move on with the series.

Even though a slim volume, The Magician's Nephew is deceptively deep and compelling.

WARNING: Reading this book leads to the compulsive reading of at least six other books.

Amanda Richards August 1, 2004

How It All Began, October 21, 2003
Digory and Polly are exploring a passageway between their houses one summer morning when they stumble into Digory's uncle's study. Uncle Andrew dapples in magic, and tricks Polly into taking one of his magic rings. Digory goes after her, and they find themselves in a magic wood, a passageway to different worlds. Exploring further, they find evil as well as a land about to be created.

This is a different story in the Narnia tales. First, we don't arrive at Narnia until after half way through the book. Second, this is the only book where actions in the fantasy worlds have direct impact on events in our world. For these reasons, it's a fun change in the series. The story in Narnia is simpler then the others, but it makes watching a new world take shape no less thrilling. And there are some important lessons on doing the right thing at the right time and getting out of life exactly what you expect.

There is quite a debate about the order this book should be read in. While it was published sixth, the events place it first. When I read these books back in third grade, I read them in publication order, and I enjoyed that because there are some surprises in here that explain a couple scenes in the first book. Admittedly biased, I think that reading them in publication order would make for the most enjoyment. However, the issues involved are very minor and any of the books can really be read in any order without spoiling anything important.

No matter what order you choose to read the books in, make sure you do. These are classic children's fantasy for a reason; they are fun stories that can be enjoyed by kids of all ages.

The Beginning of the Adventure, February 17, 2000
The Magician's Nephew by C.S. Lewis is a wonderful beginning to The Chronicles of Narnia. Two children, Digory and Polly, are given a great gift by Digory's uncle. He gives them rings which give them the power to travel to different worlds and travel home again. They travel to many different worlds and have many different adventures. I one of the worlds they find an evil queenwho follows them back home. Polly and Digory take the the queen to a different world where they meet a kion called Aslan and many different talking animals. Digory takes a silver apple back home to his dying mother. When Digory gives the apple to his mother and she is miraculously cured. Digory plants the apple core and magic rings in his backyard. You will have to read the rest of this magical adventure to find out where the magic appears next. This book is one of the most wonderful and magical books I have ever read. Lewis's imagination really keeps the books alive. It makes you feel you are sharing the adventures right along with the characters. I would recommend this book to anybody because it is so fascinating. This adventure-fantasy is for people of all ages. It makes you want to keep on reading to find out what happens to the characters. There is a lot of suspense and it is very absorbing. I love the way it leads into the next book of The Chronicles. It makes you want to read all the other books that follow.

NOT Book One, October 1, 2000
I am not going to dispute that this is a great book because it is, but it is NOT Book One of the Chronicles of Narnia. Reading this First SPOILS the mystery of the Wardrobe in "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe". If you want to read the books in the correct order it is as follows:

1.The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

2.Prince Caspian

3.The Voyage of the Dawn Dreader

4.The Silver Chair

5.The Horse and His Boy

6.The Magician's Nephew

7.The Last Battle

DO Read this book, just please read it at the right time.

Book 1  A guide to the unending secrets of Narnia, April 26, 2002
"The Magician's Nephew" was the second last of seven books that C.S. Lewis wrote in the Narnia Chronicles, but chronologically it relates events that occur first in the series: the creation of Narnia. Two children, Digory and Polly, enter a strange world through the help of magic obtained by Digory's Uncle Andrew. In this world they discover the evil witch Jadice. But then Digory makes his first mistake: he brings Jadice back to life, and worse, brings her evil presence from a world that is dying (Charn) to a world that is just beginning (Narnia). But Digory is not without redemptive qualities - he journeys with the winged horse Fledge to a magical garden reminiscent of Paradise, and resists further temptations from Jadice by faithfully taking an apple from a tree in the middle of the garden and planting it in Narnia. This fruits of this tree eventually prove to be a blessing to Digory and Polly as they return to the real world. In fact, it is this tree that later will be built into the magic wardrobe of book 2.

As with all the Narnia Chronicles, on the level of children the story functions as a perfectly comprehensible and exciting fantasy adventure, but on an adult level it imparts powerful spiritual truths about Christianity by means of numerous recognizable Biblical allusions. "The Magician's Nephew" very obviously reflects on the motifs of creation and fall, as evil enters a beautiful world where a man and his wife are king and queen (p.142). The notions of creation, the Paradise garden of Eden, Adam and Eve, the forbidden fruit, and the tempter Satan, are all present. Especially telling is Aslan's indictment of Digory for bringing evil into the newly created world: "You see, friends, that before the new, clean world I gave you is seven hours old, a force of evil has already entered it; waked and brought hither by this son of Adam." But there is immediately a hint of redemption and the suggestion that it will be accomplished by Aslan himself. "But do not be cast down. Evil will come of that evil, but it is still a long way off, and I will see to it that the worst falls upon myself ... Adam's race has done the harm, Adam's race shall help to heal it." (p.161-2). Digory's successful resisting of the temptation of Jadice in obtaining the magical silver apple is a subtle reversal of the account of the fall, and possible only because of Aslan.

As always, in all the upheavals and conflicts of Narnia, Aslan is the one constant, and it is his vital involvement that enables the children to complete their Narnian quest, just as it is Christ who inspires, comforts, guides, and saves in the real world. Narnia may exist only in Lewis imagination and ours, but these underlying truths about Christ ensure that a journey to Narnia is never without profit for the real world.

Put on the rings, May 25, 2005
Every good story has a backstory. So in "The Magician's Nephew," C.S. Lewis backpedalled to tell us the story of how Narnia began, the origin of the White Witch, and various other little questions that popped up over the course of his Narnia series. The result is a tense, slightly comic prequel that neatly ties up the various loose threads.

Two London schoolchildren, Polly and Digory, meet and befriend one another, despite Digory's misery over his mother's fatal illness. But they fall prey to Digory's arrogant uncle Andrew -- Andrew has created some magical rings that transport the wearer to another world, and he wants the two as guinea pigs. Polly and Digory only narrowly manage to return from a dying world.

But they had an unwelcome passenger -- Jadis, an imperious sorceress who plans to take over the world. Polly and Digory are appalled at what has happened, and try to find some way of transporting Jadis elsewhere, using the magical rings. But when they do, they find themselves encountering a world that is just being created, by a strange lion -- the world of Narnia.

The Narnia stories are getting more attention in the months before the movie is released. And though it's unknown whether "The Magician's Nephew" is going to be on the silver screen, it's a valuable read for movie-watchers and readers alike. Basically, if "The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe" raised any questions, then this can answer them.

"The Magician's Nephew" serves as a neat way of explaining some very weird occurrances -- where did that lamppost come from? Or the Narnian humans? Just where did the White Witch come from, since she doesn't seem to fit in Narnia's springtime utopia? This book pretty much tells it all, as well as providing a character -- Digory -- who is a quiet but important presence fifty years later.

But "The Magician's Nephew" isn't just a way of dealing with loose threads. It's also an entertaining story, full of strange magic and eerie dead worlds. But Lewis also includes some comedy, when Jadis is running amuck all over London, or when Narnian animals try to plant and water Uncle Andrew. Lewis does get a bit hamhanded with the allegory of Jadis and an apple, but the fast, tense storyline makes up for that.

"The Magician's Nephew" is not just a prequel to the rest of the Narnia series, but an entertaining fantasy novel in its own right. Definitely a must-read for fantasy fans.

And then there was light....., November 13, 2005
This is probably the one of the best books of the Chronicles of Narnia. Those of you who have a familiarity with the other books, such as The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, and the book of Genesis in the Bible will find yourself saying "Oh, I get it" through most of the story. The book explains how Narina came about, who Jadis really is, the childhood of the Professor, and how the Wardrobe became a portal to Narnia. It also details the creation of Narnia, and goes into events with the characters that are incredibly similar to the bible stories in the book of Genesis. As C.S. Lewis was a Christian writer, it is easy to see the evidence of it in this book. Even for an adult, this is an excellent book that keeps you reading just to see what happens next. I would recommend this to both people who are familar with the stories of Narnia and people who have not had any experience with the books at all. Before you go see the new movie of the second book, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe which will be released on December 9, 2005, pick up this book and you will be able to enjoy the movie and the other books even more.

The Beginning of a Journey, May 1, 2002
"In the darkness something was happening at last. A voice had begun to sing. It was very far away and Digory found it hard to decide from what direction it was coming. Sometimes it seemed to come from all directions at once. Sometimes he almost thought that it was coming out of the earth beneath them. Its lower notes were deep enough to be the voice of the earth herself. There were no words. There was hardly even a tune. But it was, beyond comparison, the most beautiful noise he had ever heard." ~C.S. Lewis, The Magician's Nephew

When Digory Kirk comes to stay with his elderly aunt and uncle in London, he is prepared for what he expects to be the worst time of his life. With his father in India, his mother on the brink of death, and no one to turn to for comfort, Digory feels like he has no hope for a better life. Then one day, he meets his next-door neighbor, Polly Plummer, who turns out to be a sweet girl with a mind for imaginary adventures. Little did either child know that what would start out as an imaginary expedition, would end up being the greatest adventure of their lives.

Although not written first, The Magician's Nephew is the beginning of a series of seven books that tells the tale of children from our world who travel to another one and there learn about what it means to believe in those things which seem impossible. This particular book is about the creation of Narnia and how on the day it was born man brought evil into it. C.S. Lewis, a devout Christian, wove many of his Christian beliefs into the story. Written for the entertainment of children, these books are simple to read but full of many great things to think about in concordance with our own lives. Begin The Chronicles of Narnia with The Magician's Nephew so that you can see how and why Narnia was created in the first place.

A masterpiece., June 15, 1998
This is the most enjoyable book that I have read in months. The author has an outstanding sense of humor as well as an imagination unrivalled by any writer this century has produced. E. B. White said that the way to write a great children's book is to write a great book for adults, and then cut out three fourths of it. This is exsactly what Lewis has done, and this is why people of all ages can enjoy this book. Some people criticize Lewis for moralizing, but all great literature has a message, from the Bible to Dostoyevsky. It does not have a slow or uninteresting part, and is very well written. It is about a boy named Digory and a girl named Polly. Digory brings a witch out of Charn and into Narnia, a world that Aslan has just created. It explains many of the things in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; how the lampost got there, who Professor Kirke was, why a wardrobe could get the children into Narnia and many other things I was wondering. Any one looking for a great read, or any writer that wants to know how to write the perfect children's book needs to read this one.

More than a children's book..., June 16, 2005
The Magician's Nephew is more than a children's book. It contains many parallels and content that every adult would do well taking note of. This book is even prophetic when Aslan the Lion talks about the world we live in (near the end of the book). I enjoyed every bit reading this, and the last third of the book just thrilled me that it made my heart beat as I read it.

It is well known that the Chronicles of Narnia parallels the Bible, and in this book, it talks about the creation of Narnia, the entry of evil to Narnia, the temptation of man, and it also helps us understand the origins of the wardrobe in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. Though this book was not written first, but it brings context to the next book when read this first.

There are many interesting views that Lewis brings across in this book, like the Wood between the Worlds. It seem to give the perspective from God's point of view in relation to time and space, where the Wood becomes the view to different worlds, being able to travel from one to another. Lewis' analogy as a corridor that linked to different apartments in a block of houses was brilliant. This book also showed the creation of Narnia when they travelled into nothingness, and hearing the singing of the Lion, the world came into being. This parallels the creation as God spoke it into existence. This book also showed that Aslan is not just limited to Narnia, but transcend beyond that, and it was interesting when Aslan said to the Cabby, "Son, I have known you long, Do you know me?" This implied the existence of Aslan in the world that the Cabby came from.

This book is so full of ideas, thoughts and parallels that Lewis had weaved in it with masterful artistry. Read and be thrilled! ... Read more

Editorial Review

"Who is coming to our house?

Someone, someone," says Mouse.

As Pig makes room, Lamb cleans up, Goose stacks the hay, and Duck lines the crib with eiderdown, Mary and Joseph are on their way by donkey. All the animals welcome the baby Jesus to their home. ... Read more

Reviews

An instant favorite, a must for Advent, December 9, 2001
Kids all know Santa is coming to their house. Do they know about Jesus coming? If you're looking for ways to give God a little equal time during the pre-Christmas crush, get this book for your kids. Little ones love to hear about animals, so the barnyard perspective of the first Christmas night is particularly effective. They will love the pictures, which depict the busy goings-on of each animal who has a job to prepare the barn for the special visitors. As the pages proceed, a subtle nighttime darkness grows, demonstrating the long wait children will associate with waiting for Christmas: "But it is dark," says Cat. "They will never come," says Rat. "Yes, they'll come, says Mouse. "Someone's coming to this house." The hypnotic cadence of the the spare text will keep them interested and turning pages to find out the answer to the all-important question: "Who is coming to our house?"

I bought this book for my under-two-year-old boys and my nearly five-year-old daughter never misses the nightly reading. It is a new Advent family tradition we all enjoy.

Also Good for One and Two-Year Olds, June 6, 2001
Who is Coming to Our House? is a super-favorite of my granddaughters, 14 months and 2-1/2. The black-outlined familiar farm animals and the final picture of the baby Jesus are just what they love. They study the details: apples, Joseph's lantern in the distance, Mary's toes. And the soft verse is hypnotic. A perfect last book before bed. No need to save this one for later. It is becoming my standard baby gift.

A beautiful and simple story of Christmas!, January 10, 2004
I have loved this book for years! It is the sweetest story of Christmas seen through the eyes of the animals. It is my favorite children's Christmas book simply because it is so understated, and yet so powerful. This book is great for toddlers and early readers (my 2nd grader loves reading it to his siblings). A must have for your children's story collection.

A wonderful, colorful book for preschoolers., November 15, 1997
I love this book - my children love this book. We bought it several years ago for my first child; it is now well-loved and well-worn. I teach at a Christian preschool and I am buying each child a copy for Christmas this year. I read it to them last week and the pictures and the suspense of "Who is coming to our house?" held them enthralled and quiet through the entire book...A high recommendation from 12 four-year olds!

Great book :), December 9, 2001
I've had this book for 18 years and it's still one of my favorites. I love the simple story line and it tells the story of the birth of Jesus in a unique way. I am working towards becomming a preschool teacher and this will be a must in my classroom. If your looking for the best book for a child this is deffinatly it.

Perfect for the very small, November 15, 2006
When my sons first started to be really interested in having books read to them (at about 12 or 13 months), this was the first book they repeatedly "requested". One of the reasons this book works is that most pages feature a single animal "speaking" a single sentence. This makes it extremely easy to provide a different voice for each animal. (Just make it up--I use a low, slow voice for the cow; a loud, nasal voice for the goose; a soft, high pitched voice for the mouse; an aristocratic, pompous voice for the peacock, etc.) The simple text and the voices really make this book engaging for the little ones. (Though not requested anymore, my 4 year old is still interested in this book if I'm reading it to his 1 1/2 year old brother). Furthermore, the art is wonderful--detailed and realistic, but not cluttered. This is also a very nice Christmas story--but, of course, the nativity story is lost on a one year old. The main reason my children love this book is the lovely art, the animal voices, and the easy way this book sets up the opportunity to pick out, point to, and name different animals and their sounds. Like other reviewers, I often give this book as baby gifts.

A Family Tradition at My House, November 28, 2006
I fell in love in love with this book as a young mother and it quickly became a favorite with my kids. Every year as we decorate for Christmas, this book is carefully unwrapped and placed on our coffee table with the manger scene that I have had since childhood. Every grown-up that picks it up wants to know where I got it because they absolutely have to have one. It is the sweetest, most simple story I have come across about the nativity. The sentences are short and rhyming and the story is told from the viewpoint of the animals in the manger. For example,the first lines are: Who is coming to our house? "Someone,someone," whispers Mouse. Each animal tells what job they are going to do to get ready for a 'visitor' that is not seen until the last page. The illustrations are bright and bold and fill in the blanks that the simple text cannot provide. I am now purchasing copies to save for future grandchildren (my kids aren't even married yet:)!)in case the book can't be found when it's time. If you would like to create a family tradition that helps you remember what Christmas is all about then this book should be part of it.

Forgetable Book, December 2, 2009
I bought this book for my 2 y/o daughter based on the rave reviews and it really fell short of expectations for me. It is a cute book with lots of animals, and my daughter does like the animals. However, the purpose of buying this book was to teach the Christmas story and this book does not do that. The whole book, except the last couple pages, are animals in the stable saying "Who is coming to our house?" and cleaning the stable. Then suddenly Baby Jesus is there and the animals know Baby Jesus is coming to their house. That is basically the whole story. It doesn't teach anything about bible story of Christ's birth. I gave it 3 stars because of the appeal of the animals, but I do not recommend this book if you want to teach your child the story of Christ's birth. Don't believe all the rave reviews, buy something else.

A Wonderful Christmas Book, September 2, 2003
A dear friend bought this book for my daughter last year at Christmas. Though she was barely 1 years old, this book instantly became her favorite and, even though it is now summer, we have to read this book at least once a day (sometimes 3 or 4 times). It's a wonderful way to introduce the Nativity story (and the true meaning of Christmas) to young kids. The illustrations are wonderful and the rhyme keeps their attention. I highly recommend this book!!!

Our family's favorite Advent / Christmas book, March 4, 2001
The animals know someone's on the way, and the stable must be made ready. Everyone participates, from the tiniest chick to Mama pig. Ashley Wolff's linocuts enhance the text in a warm and loving way - and she includes some rather unusual barn animals as well.

Our family reads this book every night in Advent, to gently remind us that we, too, must prepare our hearts to receive Christ. ... Read more

Editorial Review

This book was converted from its physical edition to the digital format by a community of volunteers. You may find it for free on the web. Purchase of the Kindle edition includes wireless delivery. ... Read more

Reviews

Outdated, Early Revisionist Work, December 27, 2010
This book is less about who wrote the Bible and more of a glimpse into 19th century revisionism. Originally published in the late 1800's, Gladden discusses much of the then-current scholarship regarding Biblical authors and canonical development. However, given the time period in which the book was written, the book skews hard towards the revisionist school of thought, which usually denies the traditional views of authorship. There has been much scholarly work done in the 100+ years since this book's publication that refute many of the author's arguments. Instead of this book, I recommend interested readers to pick up "Who Really Wrote the Bible" by Clayton Howard Ford. This book should be taken only for what it is: an outdated revisionist work, representative only of the ideas of its time.

Great Resource, October 30, 2010
Many times we get to attached to religion perspective that we omit the reality about the most basic concepts that makes us christians or better put believers. How essential to understand where it came from, how was develop. This book is one of many good resources that let us know more about our beliefs, to strengthen them not to diminish them. And for free... What a bargain. I might buy the pay version, this is really good. ... Read more