Sunday, January 2, 2011

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

Title: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (Goodreads)
Author: C.S. Lewis
Series: Chronicles of Narnia #2
Published: October 16, 1950 by Geoffrey Bles
Summary: When Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy took their first steps into the world behind the magic wardrobe, little do they realise what adventures are about to unfold. And as the story of Narnia begins to unfold, so to does a classic tale that has enchanted readers of all ages for over half a century.
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My thoughts: Of course, nearly everyone has read the Chronicles of Narnia at some time or another, and having just seen the Voyage of the Dawn Treader at the movies (it was really good, by the way) I decided to re-read the books that first got me to love reading. I still remember being 5 years old and toting around a ragged copy of the Magician's Nephew for a week after I finished it. Anyways, to the review. (I'm not going to give it a full rating, since it's a classic, but I'll give it a star-rating.)
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The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a simple story, when it comes down to it, but it is also filled with symbolism and beautiful details. One of the best qualities of the novel is it's child-like simplicity. I love how the details are so plainly and intricately written; it's like a very intelligent child is telling it, while wholeheartedly believing every word. From the way the old house the children are living in looks to Aslan's magnificent mane, not one fact is left out, and it's this detailed writing that makes this not only a classic, but a great example of clean, beautiful writing.
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From sweet, innocent Lucy, to betraying Edmund, the characters is Lewis's classic are all wonderful, heartfelt characters. My personal favorite being trusty, wise old Peter, despite the strange, otherworldly (literally) occurrences throughout the novel, the children respond in a perfect, child-like way that makes you love them all the more. Even when Susan is the voice of reason, you feel how the other children feel, and you agree with what all of their decisions. Or, at least, I did. It's wonderful to have such wonderful main characters, and the creatures of Narnia are so creative and out there, you can't help but scratch your head and be amazed at how crazy and yet real-feeling they are.
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Lewis's story weaves itself, practically. It is full of surprisingly deep metaphors, symbolism, and adventures that one can't help but get into. It's nearly impossible to set the books down, because of how serious the simple story lines can be. Because of the completely original, symbolic events in the story, it is easy for children to read, and completely engrossing and great to read as an older reader. It's agelessness is one its best assets, and one that cannot be so easily duplicated. Overall, the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a timeless classic that will undoubtedly be read for generations to come.
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Overall rating: 5 stars

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