Advent in Narnia: Reflections for the Season

by Heidi Haverkamp

"Walking into Advent can be like walking through the wardrobe."

With its enchanting themes of snow and cold, light and darkness, meals and gifts, temptation and sin, forgiveness and hope--and even an appearance by Father Christmas--C. S. Lewis's "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" fits naturally into the Advent season. As the reader seeks a storied king and anticipates the glorious coming of Christmas, these twenty-eight devotions alternate between Scripture and passages from the novel to prompt meditation on Advent themes. Each devotion also includes questions for reflection. The book also provides several resources for churches, including four sessions for small group discussion and ideas for creating a "Narnia Night" for families. Readers will ultimately come to know God better while journeying through Narnia.

Genres: Christmas, Christian, Religion, Nonfiction, Devotional, Holiday, Christianity

112 pages, Hardcover

First published September 14, 2015

About the author

Heidi Haverkamp is a writer, spiritual director, and Episcopal priest.

Reviews

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

For the season of Advent, I only listen to Christmas music and read only Christmas and Advent themed books. Christmas has become so commercialized, that I have decided to "take back Christmas". I was tired of complaining that Christmas didn't feel like Christmas anymore, so I decided to do something about it. The only person who can make me feel a certain way is me. If Christmas didn't feel like Christmas, it was because I was letting others control my feelings. I wanted to stop that and get back into the spirit of the season. This book was my attempt to do that this year and WOW did it work for me!

DISCLAIMER: I LOVE "The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe". The fact that this Advent meditation/study revolved around that book probably made it that much better for me. If it had been based on another book or just a plain old study, it may not have resonated with me as much.

That being said, I thought this book was GENIUS. As a kid, I knew that TLTW&TW was religious, who Aslan represented, that it was an Easter story, but I never really drew the connection to Advent and Christmas. This book opened my eyes to that fact and my appreciation of Lewis' book increased immeasurably, not to mention my respect for the author of this book.

The daily readings weren't too long or too short, they were perfect for a daily reading in a season where people don't have much time and need to bring some peace to their day. The questions were very thought-provoking and deep. And, of course, the readings of Lewis' book alongside of the daily readings just magnified the lesson.

I admit, it was tough to just a read a chapter at a time of TLTW&TW, but the anticipation made it that much sweeter when I was able to continue and it made me realize that I had forgotten quite a bit of the book. I was also able to take my time and really soak in the chapters as I read them and I can't wait to finish it!

Since this was just an Advent study, the entire book of TLTW&TW wasn't read, so I can continue it on my own. I hope there is a plan to do a Lenten study by the same author of this book using TLTW&TW. It would make the completest in me very happy and I would sure as heck get it and read it.

This book is very respectful of copyright laws. It is very clear about what is and isn't allowed by law. I LOVED that this book was so thorough, and respectful of laws/rules/regs, etc.

Confession time. I really, REALLY loved this Advent study. I ordered two copies for my minister and the clerk of session to read and review. If they approve, I'm ordering more copies and starting an Advent study group using this book at my church. Well, and TLTW&TW. I'll be buying a bunch of those for the group too. I'm very excited about this and can't wait for Advent next year!

So, long story short (too late), this book rocked my socks off. It, along with the book it was studying, both helped to bring me to Christmas in a very Christmas frame of mind. I didn't read a whole lot this Advent season, but I didn't miss not having my nose buried in a book. This was a very successful experiment for me.

I HIGHLY recommend this book if you are looking for a good Advent study. Five, HUGE SHINY Christmas stars!

My thanks to NetGalley and Westminster John Knox Press for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.

[David Wiley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Devotionals that tie in with anything Tolkien or C.S. Lewis are always a welcome discovery for me. So when I noticed an Advent-themed Narnia devotional I knew that I had to get my hands on it. And let me start off by saying that this is worth every penny to put it in your collection.

So much thought clearly went in to compiling this devotional. It contains four weeks worth of devotional material, alternating between a chapter tied primarily around a scene in the book (The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe) and a chapter tied primarily around the Bible. Each devotion has ties with both, of course, but the primary content alternates by day which is a nice approach. The end of each day has 1-3 questions for reflection, as well, which makes this great for a family devotion, and each chapter tied to Narnia also mentions which chapter(s) in the book it pairs with.

But the real gold is what you’ll find after the devotions, and that is what elevates it from a good devotional to a great one. There is a 4-week series that I would have loved to have used when I was teaching in Children’s Ministry, each week centered around a theme from the book and the Bible. It mentions all sorts of props, activities, and many other great things to use and do, and this would be something that could even be done as a family at home providing a major focus once a week to go hand-in-hand with the daily devotions. There is a guide to the three film versions of the book, as well as some recipes and other great stuff. Crafts, props, and more are all covered in varying depths, and at the least it will spark ideas that could lead to some searching on Pinterest for how to pull them all together.

Overall this was a wonderful devotional, one I plan to pull out again in a few years once my little one is ready for his first venture into Narnia. I cannot recommend this one enough, especially with the Advent season right around the corner.

**I received a copy of this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Laura Cheifetz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited about this book, and not just because I've known the author since we were young(er) seminarians. I grew up loving the C.S. Lewis Narnia books; I read them over and over again. This Advent book is perfect for devotional reading alone or with a group of people, perhaps with your family! It's pretty, and the reflections are tied to Scripture passages and the novels. Each reflection ends with questions for discussion. My favorite part (especially for you teachers/educators out there) is the leader's guide at the back. The author first developed this as an Advent series with her congregation, so there are four lesson plans, and a plan for creating a "Narnia Night" at your church. The very last thing? A recipe. I love books with recipes.

[Mimi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I picked this up at a used book sale earlier in the year and held it until Advent. It reads quite quickly - I am intrigued by the idea of using Lewis' Narnia as a text for exploring Advent. It was interesting, quick meditations for 28 days of Advent, along with some questions and ideas to run a four-week Advent in Narnia group.
I did enjoy was the idea of Advent as a time to reflect on the coming of spring and Easter. Very good points. What I found really interesting was the fact that Advent as a time of fasting and preparation - very important in both my Orthodox tradition as well as, as I understand, to Catholic and Liturgical Protestants - was glossed over.
Not a book that I'll keep, but I am happy that I read it. I am also hungry for Turkish Delight.

[Tarissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Advent in Narnia" is the perfect book for casual and fanatic Narnians alike. You're sure to discover new meaning in the story of The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe.

Included are 28 short chapters to be enjoyed daily during the Advent season. The chapters encourage you to read it along with the The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe book itself, so that you can refresh your memory on everything that the devotion covers in the original story.

I found the daily readings to be short, sweet and offer a new thought about C.S. Lewis's writings, or other holiday-themed meanings behind the religious symbols in the original story. I do believe it opened my eyes more to some of the hidden definitions of the characters and obscure elements. Although I have personally read several of the Narnia books, I haven't yet researched into Lewis's writings further. Heidi Haverkamp's book helped introduce me to some things I hadn't figured out yet myself, and still put a Christmas twist on it.

"It's easy to be cynical about the holidays, but if we can allow ourselves to feel some deep delight or let our imaginations run wild in the wonder of even the silliness of the season, we might be surprised into seeing both ourselves and God's world differently." (Heidi Haverkamp)

The author even includes additional material for a group study -- helpful to have if your church would be interested in reading this Advent study together, or if you just want to enjoy it with your family members or friends.

{Plus, if I hadn't read this book, I wouldn't know about ALL the movie versions of The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe that I could watch!}

Thanks to the author and Netgalley for the free review copy & for the opportunity to express my honest opinions.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

When we walk into Narnia, as Rowan Williams puts it, we enter “an unfamiliar world in which we could rediscover what it might mean to meet the holy without the staleness of religious preconceptions as they appear in our culture.” The strange and fantastic images and characters can also compel us to pay more attention to the power and meaning of the Christian story because our imaginations and emotions are freshly engaged. In the novel, the Pevensie children stand in for us and the ways we may experience Narnia (or Christianity) as readers. Lucy enters wholeheartedly. Peter and Susan struggle to believe. Edmund knows that there’s something there, but he is too fearful and self-absorbed to admit it or fully enter.

The season of Advent and the Chronicles of Narnia has so much in common as they express the waiting and the wonder. The preparation to receive Jesus and awaken our lives to hope, to love, and to our most needy neighbors, (page 27) and the revelation of the goodness of God (Aslan). Each chapter brings to an understanding of the Pevensie Children and the struggles that we have. Edmund the brother that betrayed his siblings, we are more like him than we can ever know and in being like him, we also experience the grace and forgiveness that Edmund received. A boy that once was bitter turned humble when Aslan spoke into his heart. Edmund’s heart could not receive the good news of Christ. Probably my favorite part of the whole story in that offers so much insight to our broken hearts.

One of the questions asked that I am baffled by is why did Father Christmas (which represents the Holy Spirit) not have a gift for Edmund? He had given gifts to the other children to ward off attacks. Why not give the gift to the other children to give later to Edmund? What do you think?

The 28 days end with an engaging session for small groups which gives this devotional various options to engage with. This is a treasured devotion to be used year after year.

A Special Thank you to Westminster John Knox Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The magic of Narnia meets the promise of Advent in this book of daily meditations for the Advent season. The author clearly explains the Christian symbolism of C.S. Lewis' book (which is also just enjoyed for its wonderful storytelling). A leader's guide for four sessions and a family Narnia Day at the back make this great for church use.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. I felt rushed through this book, this Advent was just short. I think next year maybe I'll try to read a hard copy and maybe journal or do something for accountability. I loved the parallels she drew, but I was missing something I can't put my finger on.

[Adele Guerin]

I really liked this advent devotional book. The daily reading are short and easy to fit into my day, but they contain some great insights connecting the story of The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe to Christianity in general and Christmas in particular. I plan to read this again.

[Meagan | The Chapter House · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this! It gave me a new appreciation for LWW and all of the Christmassy/Advent connections. A great way to spend the season.

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the cover of Advent in Narnia: Reflections for the Season and think this is a wonderful idea for a book! The combination of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe with thoughts and reflections on Advent seem like a great combination. However, the execution of that idea fell short of my expectations. I didn't like how the readings repeated. This may have been avoided if the reading suggestions were more specific than read chapter 1. Maybe the author could have specified a certain passage out of chapter 1 and then later instead of suggesting that chapter 1 be read again simply suggest a different part of chapter 1. It is a good assumption that someone reading Advent in Narnia: Reflections for the Season has already read The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe at least once.

Although at times I did yearn for more depth from this title, in general, however I do appreciate how busy life is during Advent. Heidi Haverkamp does offer food for thought.

Thank you to Westminster John Knox Press (WJK) for sending me an advanced copy of this title from NetGalley.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must admit, last year I began going through this book, but I was not in the spirit for it. It was just me. When I picked it up again, I was thrilled with the reflections found in this book. I am a fan of Narnia and Aslan, so this book really spoke to me. There is so much in Narnia that reminds us of Christmas and this book picks up on those themes.

At least in my area, there is cold weather, sometimes snow, the delicious food which can be a temptation, plus hope. In fact, Father Christmas even makes an appearance in both. This book takes each of these and more and works it into 28 devotions which include Scripture, devotions and excerpts from the book itself. I find myself reflection on the devotion throughout my day and it helps me to stay focus on the reason for Christmas.

I was given this book by NetGalley and Westminster John Knox Press in exchange for my honest review.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first read The Chronicles of Narnia to my young sons. I was captivated by the books and since then have read many books by C S Lewis. I'd have to say that he has become one of my favorite authors.

In my opinion, any writer who decides to tackle a project with any of the books by Lewis, should be prepared to put forth something very carefully written. Fans of Lewis will expect nothing but the best. In this case, the author has indeed managed to convey the wonder of Narnia and suggests that the reader have a copy of The Lion,The Witch & The Wardrobe on hand as a companion to this book.

I loved the fresh insight I got from reading this, and I recommend it highly.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Advent in Narnia, Reflections for the Season by Heidi Haverkamp is a wonderful way for an individual or a family to prepare for the Christmas season. Each daily entry begins with a reading from the Bible. Then the reader is directed to read a chapter in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis. This is followed by a discussion on how C.S. Lewis used his characters to highlight in a simple fable-like way the Bible verses. There are also questions for further reflection that can be used to spark more discussion and understanding.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Westminster John Knox Press. I voluntarily reviewed it.

[Sharon Paavola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Advent in Narnia will please any Narnia fan and others, too. What a unique way to prepare for Christ's birth! The author mixes in both Narnia characters and scripture to enlighten the season. The book holds twenty-eight devotions with reflection questions. I read this by myself but will enjoy using it in the future with my grandson and family as Narnia becomes real to him. Since my copy is an e-book I look forward to purchasing the hardbound edition. It is lovely and will complement my Christmas collection.
I am thankful to NetGalley for this reading and reviewing opportunity. My views and honest opinions are my own.

[Caleb · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way that the book is made is that you read it during advent time. This book gave a more Christian detailed view of the first Narnia book. I was very happy with all the time and effort, that the author took to make the book as good as it was.

I thought that this was a really good book. I enjoyed reading this because I am a fan of the "Adventures in Narnia" series, by C.S. Lewis, and I feel that anyone else who also likes the series would like this book as well. It just might make you think of some parts of the story from a completely different viewpoint.

[Diane Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was warned that this book was not for those extremely familiar with Narnia and its implications, so I figured it was right for me, since I have not read the books since my daughter was young! In fact, I wish that I had read along in The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe as recommended in the book. Perhaps I shall reread both in a couple of years. And then rewatch the movie. But even without the review, there was quite a lot to think about during advent and Christmas!

[J.L. Neyhart · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wasn't super impressed with this book as a devotional. But maybe it has something to do with how obvious the points and connections were to me because of my over familiarity with the Narnia books. I've read many other positive reviews, I just didn't enjoy it as much as I had hoped to.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love C.S. Lewis' Narnia, you will probably enjoy this Advent Devotional based on The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe book of the collection. It is divided into four weeks, or four sessions - The Wardrobe, The Witch, Father Christmas, and The Lion. As you read each daily devotional there may or may not be a suggestion for a chapter of the book to be read along with it. Several of the devotionals correspond with the same chapter, and occasionally you may skip a chapter. It is based more on the theme itself, than on a consecutive reading through the book. It can also be used along with the movie as instructed in the Group Study Sessions in the back.

Personally, I felt like this book was more of a reflection inspired by the country and characters in Narnia. It got me thinking and meditating on the purpose of Christmas and the things that can stand in our way or keep us from celebrating with a heart focused on Christ. I enjoyed the allegories, the follow up questions and the devotional read. At times it can be intense and thought provoking, especially the self-focus part. But that, to me, is what Advent is about - not just preparing for the baby Jesus, but preparing our hearts for His return and reflecting on the current condition of our heart.

I believe this book can be used in a variety of ways, family devotions, individual study, or group study. You may just have to adjust the information accordingly depending on how deep you want to go. There is a group study guide in the back with information on how to use the book and movie along with this devotional, questions, and much more. Included is also a Narnia Night you could tone down for family use, or go all out for a night at church. There is also a recipe, and other useful information. I think as long as a person uses this book with an open mind, it will be helpful and encouraging. If you have some preconceived notion as to what you expect, you may be disappointed. Personally, I got this book for a family Advent, as my son has read and enjoyed this whole Narnia Series and I thought this would be an interesting new way to celebrate Advent.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher to review. All opinions are my own, and I was not asked to review positively.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author spoke at my church earlier this year, but sadly I wasn’t able to attend. However hearing about this book rekindled my adolescent love for the Narnia books and I was eager to find a new Advent book to use as a springboard for contemplation. My husband and I enjoyed reading aloud “The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe,” while also reading the short essay for each day of Advent.

When I first encountered the Narnia books, I was in the seventh grade and mildly irritated at the adults who deemed the books “worthy” because of the Christian symbolism that I felt they were layering on top of what I saw as a great adventure. But as an adult myself I was eager to experience the book anew and was open to finding deeper meaning.

I can’t say that I was swept off my feet with new understandings, but I did enjoy the guided journey through the book with thoughtful questions to ponder and discuss. My most intriguing takeaway is how Advent in Narnia made me ponder how a holiday devoted to the Incarnation in the dark of the year is also intrinsically linked to the Resurrection and the coming of Springtime in our lives. It’s funny because the Living Nativity at a local evangelical church always irritates me with its focus on the crucifixion and Resurrection, which feels out of place a Christmas. I always leave thinking, “Can’t we just let Christmas be Christmas?” Yet something struck a chord with me in rereading CS Lewis while pondering the guided essays in “Advent in Narnia” that Hope coming in the dark of the year is intrinsically connected to the coming of Spring and Resurrection in a both/and sort of way.

I probably won’t use this book as an Advent study again, but I’m glad I did this year. I would recommend it, especially to someone who loved Narnia as a youth and is interested in experiencing it again.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't know how much symbolism C.S. Lewis intended with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, but it was interesting to liken many of the characters and events in that book with Advent.

"Walking into Advent can be like walking through the wardrobe...It's a magical time, set apart from ordinary time...We experience a heightened sense of excitement and expectation. Those expectations are not only about the giving and receiving of gifts but also about Advent and Christmastime offering us a glimpse of a world that's kinder, more just, and more joyful than the one we usually experience... the door we must walk though first is Christ...It is he who will lead us to that world we long for, where pain is turned to love, and death to life."

Each day's text is short with questions for reflection at the end.

[David · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you are a Lion Witch and Wardrobe fan then you’ve got plenty of time to pick up this Advent devotional. Heidi’s devotional is set up to read the book at the same time. There were certain points I wanted more of Lewis’ quotes or even passage sections within the devotional; however, Heidi was wise enough to let the reader know the skirt of the copyright law on this one; it goes quite long. The devotions are short, scripturally pertinent, applicable, and filled with brief insights into the mind of Lewis and Narnia.

Recommended: Advent devotional; Narnia fans

**This was a review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**

[David Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a big Narnia fan and always looking for something to add, This book cleverly turns the first half of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe into a series of daily readings for Advent. It is designed to be a guide for leading an Adult Forum type of weekly discussion at church as well, and has other ideas regarding church events, including recipes.

I just read the daily readings over Advent and found them useful and some of them inspiring. There are questions for each day that also spark some meaningful reflection.

[Jenny · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book. Narnia + Advent? Yes, please!

But unfortunately, I couldn't find much to recommend it. The connection between the Narnia story and the Advent message Haverkamp was trying to get across was often a stretch, and the entire book felt like it was skimming the surface. It wasn't bad... it just didn't take me anywhere.

Perhaps, its showing would not have been quite so dismal if it weren't up against multiple fabulous advent books that I adore. Regardless, it is not one that I'll be repeating.

[Mammu · Rating 3 out of 5]

Simple devotional for 28 days leading to Christmas. Expected more, probably a deeper, more spiritual pondering reflections than something that compares advent to"The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe". That being said, this is perfect for small groups & Christian families with young children, introducing kids to meditation & spiritual reflections & biblical study using a very familiar analogy of Advent & salvation.

[Anna Hanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonder-filled journey

Loving the Narnia books already, I anticipated enjoying this Advent journey through time and the imagery of a beloved author. I was happily confirmed in that hope, and additionally pleased with the author's parallels to the Nativity story. This will likely become an annual revisiting, both to devotions and Narnia.

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read all of the books in this series, and have watched two different movie versions of them. It took me reading through several of the books in the series, before I started to see the comparison with Christianity. I think it would have been enlightening to be in a study group, with this book, to gain more insight while reading the book.

[Elizabeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

I expected and hoped for so much with this book- perhaps if I hadn't, I wouldn't have been so let down.

It was okay-- but just okay. I may or may not read it in years to come. I feel it may be better used with a small group or with a church youth group. Many of the questions are rather surface-ey and not for people who spend too much time being introspective as is.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book of reflections. We used this as the basis of an Advent formation class at our church - the class was on “The Lion” but Heidi’s reflections guided our conversation. We had a festival such as she describes in the back, which delighted everyone. Even invited Heidi to come speak to us, which was incredibly powerful and fun!

[L · Rating 3 out of 5]

While we did enjoy this book and had some good discussions/takeaways, overall it fell flat. Some chapters seemed to repeat themselves as if the author was running out of ideas, and she didn’t even address the stone table, which I felt should have obviously been included. [Also, one chapter used verses from the apocrypha, so if you’re not Catholic be aware of that.]