Monday, May 9, 2011

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




Bibliography
Lewis, C.S. (1978). The lion, the witch and the wardrobe. New York: HarperTrophy.

206 pages

Plot
Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy are sent to live with an old professor during the Blitz in England during World War II. The professor, an old academic is somewhat stern with the children, asking them to stay away from his work. The children then are forced to explore the house on their own. But when playing tag, Lucy notices a wardrobe with no backing. She keeps working her way past thick fur coats until she finds herself in a forest and a light post where she meets a faun. Afraid that she had journeyed too long, Lucy finds her way back to the light post and through the wardrobe. The other children don’t believe her until a couple days later when the journey in themselves.

Review
The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe is a classic tale. Taking reference not only from the historical time period in which it was written, but also full of biblical allegories, Lewis does an excellent job creating a story to which readers of all ages can enjoy. Originally written for his goddaughter, the book is best for a tween audience. Lewis’ writing style creates a story to which readers feel emotionally connected to. With a variety of characters, Aslan, the Beavers, and even Mr. Tumnus are loveable characters with a good heart. Additionally, readers should enjoy the feel-good ending and hopefully be interested in reading the subsequent novels in the series.

Genre
Fantasy


Reading Level/Interest Level
This novel would appeal to readers in 4th – 6th grade.

Similar Content
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L’Engle

Personal thoughts
I remember reading this book in 5th grade. I have always enjoyed this book, both in terms of the writing style and the content. In light of the fact that the books are now being made into movies, I felt it would be a good addition to the blog.

Subjects/themes
Family
Good vs. Evil
Adventure
Biblical references
Historical references

Awards
ALA Notable Children’s Book

Series information
This is the second book of seven in the Narnia Series

Character names/descriptions
The Pevensies (Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy): The four children who enter into Narnia through the Wardrobe by the Lamp Post.

Aslan: The lion who is the king of all Narnia.

Jadis or the White Witch: The antagonist in the story, who is currently ruling Narnia and is the enemy of Aslan.

Mr. Tumnus: The faun Lucy meets upon first entering Narnia

The Beavers: The Pevensies’ first ally upon entering Narnia

Annotation
The Pevensies are about to enter into a world so dangerous and different from their own, but only they can help save Narnia.

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