The Chronicles of Narnia - Boxed Set
By C.S. Lewis
HarperEntertainment, 2005
ISBN: 0-06-082042-X
Reviewed by Sheldon Ztvordokov - November 28, 2006
For generations, the seven volumes that comprise The Chronicles of Narnia have delighted readers of all ages. The very short synopsis of this series is that it is a set of fantasy stories about four young children who travel to an alternative reality and have many exciting and unforgettable adventures. These novels, written by C. S. Lewis, a scholar and prolific writer, can be read simply as charming set of young adult novels. They can also be read at a more adult level as the stories are resplendent with Christian themed allegories that can be very diverting to decipher. With the release of movie version of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe in 2005, there has been a resurgence of interest in The Chronicles of Narnia series. As a result a plethora of reprinted editions of the series has recently reached the market. This boxed set is one such re-release.
Tied to the motion picture, this boxed set contains Lewis' original seven Narnia novels. The books are organized in the box in an order that is best suited for readers more interested in the allegoric elements of the stories. However, this order places the story out of order, so I highly recommend that you initially read this series in the order that Lewis intended. The optimal reading order is:
The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe
Prince Caspian
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
The Silver Chair
The Horse and His Boy
The Magician's Nephew
The Last Battle
The Chronicles of Narnia is essential reading for anyone interested in the development of science fiction or fantasy genres. Lewis was influenced by such greats as J.R.R. Tolkien and G. K. Chesterton, and he has in turn, influenced countless writers that have come after him. Allegories, impact, and media hype aside, The Chronicles of Narnia are just plain, good old-fashioned, fantasy stories that have delighted readers for generations, and will continue to do so for many more to come. Highly recommended!