C.S. Lewis: Latter-Day Truths in Narnia

by Marianna Richardson, Christine Thackeray

C. S. Lewis was an accomplished scholar, writer, and Christian apologist. His incredible insights and wonderful stories have long been a favorite of the LDS community, and he has been referenced thousands of times throughout LDS writings. Even Shakespeare pales in comparison to the number of times C. S. Lewis has been quoted by Mormon authors, scholars, and General Authorities to illustrate doctrinal truths. Lewis had a knack of speaking for "every man" and gave us modern parables for Christian living. All can relate to his testimony of Christ and his practical understanding of how to put gospel teachings into practice today. C. S. Lewis: Latter-day Truths in Narnia explores Lewis's life, his writings, and his influence on LDS writers, scholars, and authorities. Lewis realized that life is more than what we see and deeper than what we feel. Whether or not you are familiar with Lewis's nonfiction works or his fictional characters, you will enjoy reading about his powerful testimony of Jesus Christ.

246 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2008

Reviews

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book could stand a little more editing and proofreading, but it is good enough to be enjoyable anyway, although a bit repetitious in parts and with quite a few typos.
Delightful book, covering many different aspects of CS Lewis--his biography, his beliefs, his writings, how he's been quoted, and by whom, in LDS publications and conferences, and a chapter on each of the seven Narnia books, highlighting an important part of that book that shows how he expressed his beliefs. I especially enjoyed the parts of the book that added Latter Day revelation to CS Lewis's quotes and understanding, to show how his writings can amplify spiritual truths and then how revelation can clarify and amplify even more. I originally bought this for my son who is doing a study of the Narnia books this year, and the seven chapters on the books will be great for him.

[Tyler · Rating 2 out of 5]

I learned some good things in part 1 about C.S. Lewis's life that provided some interest context for his writings. Part 2 contains MAJOR spoilers for the Chronicles of Narnia, but had some interesting spiritual insights into the stories. Part 3 is all about C.S. Lewis quotations that have been quoted or paraphrased by general authorities of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This book was fairly well-written and I enjoyed it alright, but I think one would get more out of just reading C.S. Lewis themselves.

[Christine Thackeray · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great book for anyone who loves C.S. Lewis. It includes an overview of his spiritual journey, a look at the major themes of his work and one of the most complete reviews of his use in by LDS church authorities. Filled with unique thought, I think it make an interesting read for those of any religious affiliation.

[Andrew · Rating 3 out of 5]

As much as I enjoyed this book, it could have been improved. Some quotes were used too many times, making the book a little repetitive. However, it was fun to read about C.S. Lewis, a favorite author of mine, from an authoritative LDS perspective. I've looked for the similarities often enough myself, rooting for him to get things right. It's nice to read a book all about it.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful thoughts on Lewis and the added light that the Gospel brings to the things he taught. I was especially struck by the fact that two women wrote the book. I'm not used to women being the ones to write this kind of book, and I thought it was incredibly well executed.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book with a lot to ponder, but it's probably twice as long as it needs to be. Quotes and ideas were repeated quite a bit. Enjoyable read

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great! Makes you want to read all seven again with this book next to you