The Chronicles of Narnia consist of 7 remarkable adventures that unfold on multiple levels.

On one hand, they are engaging children's adventure stories filled with excitement and wonder.

On another level, they offer both adults and children insights into the Christian life and their spiritual essence.

Moreover, they present an exploration into the future of planet Earth.

These books are ideal for reading aloud to children aged 8 and above, yet they also have the power to move and inspire adults.

They contain humor, address the complex problems we all encounter, and offer positive approaches to dealing with them.

They introduce a novel and charming way of perceiving and respecting animals and the environment.

There are not only knightly battles but also the daily struggles we face in our lives.

The books also demonstrate an open acceptance of the different and the small.

Even after numerous readings, these books maintain their excitement and inspiration.

This is especially true because the more one delves into them, the more one discovers within and can apply to one's own life and aspirations.

Throughout the series, there is a continuous battle between Good and Evil, along with a helpful, natural, and comforting way of confronting weakness, failure, struggle, and mutual responsibility.

Evil and death are faced and overcome in a positive manner.

Different beliefs are respected, and sound theology is firmly rooted in reality.

Truly, an inspired individual penned these wonderful books.

I have an intense love for these series.

It commences with enchanting and dreamy fairy tales that seem to transport you to a magical realm. And it concludes with a big bang, leaving a lasting impact.

Behind the seemingly simple children's story telling lies a profound and powerful message. It delves into the concept of God, teaching us about bravery and the complex dynamics of siblings love and rivalry.

It also explores the themes of love and the journey of becoming an adult. There is a strong emphasis on taking responsibility for one's actions, as well as the ideas of punishment and forgiveness.

Among all the siblings, I have a particular affection for Lucy. Her character is endearing and adds a special charm to the series.

I find myself constantly drawn to these stories, eager to uncover more of their hidden meanings and enjoy the wonderful adventures they offer.

I read it from July 25, 2019 to December 27, 2020.

You may wonder why I put myself through this. Well, I grew up watching the films based on these stories. I was always intrigued by the idea of knowing the other aspects and details that weren't shown in the movies. Susan was perhaps my very first crush, and I was constantly curious about what her future might hold. These characters had such a profound emotional impact on me that I felt compelled to explore their stories further.

However, I never read the books before. And in a way, I'm actually thankful for that. Because upon finally reading them, I found that the message they convey is, at best, questionable.

Moreover, I don't think I could have even managed to read them when I was younger, as the writing style is incredibly boring. It was简直 like pure torture. I initially endured the first few books by listening to the audiobooks at 2x speed. But even that couldn't salvage the last two, so I ultimately resorted to reading chapter by chapter synopses.

Usually, I like to find at least one or two nice things to say about a book, even if I don't particularly like it. But in this case, I simply can't come up with anything positive.

**The Chronicles of Narnia (Chronicles of Narnia #1-7), C.S. Lewis**

The Chronicles of Narnia is an enchanting series of seven fantasy novels penned by the renowned C.S. Lewis.

It is widely regarded as a classic in children's literature and stands as the author's most famous work, having sold an astonishing over 100 million copies across 47 languages.

Written by Lewis and beautifully illustrated by Pauline Baynes, the series was originally published in London between 1950 and 1956. It has since been adapted numerous times, either in its entirety or in part, for various mediums such as radio, television, the stage, and film.

The story is set in the fictional realm of Narnia, a magical world filled with mythical beasts and talking animals. The series chronicles the adventures of different children who play crucial roles in the unfolding history of Narnia.

With the exception of The Horse and His Boy, the protagonists are all children from the real world who are magically transported to Narnia. There, they are called upon by the noble lion Aslan to safeguard Narnia from evil and restore the throne to its rightful line.

The books span the entire history of Narnia, commencing with its creation in The Magician's Nephew and culminating in its eventual destruction in The Last Battle.

The seven books in the series are: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (1950); Prince Caspian: The Return to Narnia (1951); The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (1952); The Silver Chair (1953); The Horse and His Boy (1954); The Magician's Nephew (1955); The Last Battle (1956).

Via, io ci riprovo.

Strategia di lettura: un romanzo al mese che simpatica che sono. Tuttavia, la realtà è stata diversa. Ho iniziato con l'intenzione di leggere un romanzo al mese, ma alla fine ho dovuto farne a meno per alcuni mesi a causa di altri impegni.

Durata della lettura: sette mesi (giugno - dicembre) dieci mesi con una pausa di cinque mesi. La lettura dei libri della serie "Le cronache di Narnia" è stata una lunga e interessante esperienza. Ho iniziato nel giugno e ho terminato solo dieci mesi dopo, con una pausa di cinque mesi nel mezzo.

Aspettative: non addormentarmi con il tomo sui polmoni (già successo più e più volte). Quando ho iniziato a leggere questa serie, ero molto curiosa di vedere cosa mi avrebbe riservato. Tuttavia, avevo anche paura di addormentarmi mentre leggevo, come è successo molte altre volte con altri libri.

Il nipote del mago (dal 01/06 al 05/06) 3/5 stelline. In fin dei conti mi è piaciuto più di quanto pensassi. Si vede che è una storia per bambini, a tratti è noiosa, poco descrittiva, ma in fin dei conti carina. Ho adorato il tipo di narrazione.

Il leone, la strega e l'armadio (dal 01/07 al 10/07) 3 stelline. Stessi pensieri del primo libro. Anche questo libro mi è piaciuto, ma non ho trovato nulla di straordinario. Tuttavia, la storia è interessante e mi ha tenuta incollata alla pagina.

Il ragazzo e il cavallo (dal 01/08 al 31/08) 1,5 stelline. Uh, stavolta è stata dura. Per il momento è il romanzo che mi ha coinvolto di meno. Troppo prolisso. Questo libro non mi è piaciuto molto. Ho trovato la storia troppo lunga e complessa, e non ho potuto entrare nel personaggio principale.

Il principe Caspian (dal 01/09 al 09/03) 2 stelline. Un po' noiosetto, infatti l'ho abbandonato per molto, molto tempo. Questo libro mi ha lasciato un po' delusa. Ho trovato la storia noiosa e ho dovuto abbandonarlo per molto tempo prima di riuscire a finirlo.

Il viaggio del veliero (dal 10/03 al 14/03) 3,5 stelline. Romanzo preferito (per il momento). Ricipì e Eustachio mi hanno fatto morire dal ridere. Questo libro è stato il mio preferito finora. Ho adorato la storia e i personaggi, soprattutto Ricipì e Eustachio, che sono stati molto divertenti.

La sedia d'argento (dal 15/03 al 19/03) 1,5 stelline. Ho adorato l'inizio e la fine, specialmente i pochissimi capitoli che non si svolgono a Narnia. La parte centrale mi ha annoiato a morte (Eustachio bravo e buono proprio non l'ho sopportato). Questo libro mi ha dato delle sensazioni contrastanti. Ho adorato l'inizio e la fine, ma la parte centrale mi ha annoiato molto. Inoltre, non ho potuto sopportare Eustachio, che mi è sembrato troppo bravo e buono.

L'ultima battaglia (dal 19/03 al 24/03) 2 stelline. Non mi è piaciuto il fatto che Susan sia stata esclusa dall'ultima avventura solo perchè cresciuta. Il finale mi ha scioccata per la fine fatta fare ai fratelli (e ai loro genitori). Ha senso come finale, però mi ha lasciata molto amareggiata. Questo libro mi ha lasciato una sensazione amara. Non mi è piaciuto il fatto che Susan sia stata esclusa dall'ultima avventura solo perchè aveva cresciuto. Inoltre, il finale mi ha scioccata e mi ha lasciata molto amareggiata.

I've read the Chronicles of Narnia in German when I was a young teenager. At that time, I really loved the movies for a while. (Ben Barnes has had a hold on me since 2008. What can I say?) That's precisely why I also wanted to read the books. However, I remember feeling somewhat disappointed by the series, especially the later installments.

Like most girls, I detested how Susan was excluded from Narnia and the way she was treated in general throughout the books. I would truly love to reread the series as an adult at some point and specifically examine how Christianity is explored within it.

You can find my individual reviews here:

#1
  The Magician's Nephew
– 3 stars

#2
  The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
– 3 stars

#3
  The Horse and His Boy
– 2 stars

#4
  Prince Caspian
– 3 stars

#5
  The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
– 3 stars

#6
  The Silver Chair
– 2 stars

#7
  The Last Battle
– 2 stars

My favorite book series while growing up was truly remarkable.

It was none other than The Chronicles of Narnia. This enchanting series had a profound impact on me as it not only kindled my love for reading but also my passion for fiction.

The vivid and imaginative worlds created within the pages of these books were simply captivating. Each of the seven books in the series is an absolute must-read.

From the magical wardrobe that leads to the land of Narnia to the epic battles and adventures that unfold, every moment is filled with excitement and wonder.

The characters are so well-developed that you can't help but become emotionally invested in their stories.

Whether it's the brave and noble Peter, the kind-hearted Susan, the curious Edmund, or the innocent Lucy, they all bring something unique to the table.

The Chronicles of Narnia is a timeless classic that continues to inspire generations of readers.

"One day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again."

C.S. Lewis.

Full review here in my new book blog: http://benereadsbooksonclouds.blogspo...

It's incredible how this book captures me every time, as if it were the first time, how it moves me in the usual places every time, and how I never tire of rereading it.

The language is simple and flowing but dotted with details.

The description of the fairytale landscape is detailed but never too slow, as it alternates at the right moments to give space to the dialogues and the action.

What might seem like simple fairy tales for children are instead loaded with deep symbolic meanings that the reader can gradually perceive.

A series for those who want to enter a fantastic world that never stops surprising; for those who, despite everything, are always in search of values and finally for those who, like as a child, have never stopped dreaming.

This book truly has a special charm that keeps pulling me back. It's like a magical door that opens to a world full of wonder and imagination. The way the author weaves the story, using simple yet evocative language, makes it accessible to readers of all ages. The fairytale landscapes are described so vividly that you can almost picture yourself walking through them. And the hidden symbolic meanings add an extra layer of depth to the stories, making them not just entertaining but also thought-provoking. Whether you're a child or an adult, this book has something to offer. It can reignite your sense of wonder and remind you of the importance of dreams and values. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good fairytale or wants to escape into a world of magic and adventure.

\\n  Quick review\\n

The Narnia series has a great fantasy setting and storyline. However, it is marred by very obvious allegory and, as the story goes on, too much Christian preaching. Warning: There are many racial stereotypes that may be offensive. It is recommended for adults in a Christian religious environment or those who can completely overlook these aspects and enjoy the story. It is not for gullible children unless accompanied by a discerning adult.

\\n  Detailed review\\n

I won't waste the intelligence of respected GoodReaders by summarizing the Narnia stories. I don't think many here don't know this story, even if you haven't read the books. The story of the four Pevensie children who find the magical land of Narnia through the back of a wardrobe is a literary legend. In Narnia, they rule as kings and queens after freeing it from the White Witch's enchantment, with Aslan the lion supervising benignly yet firmly.

As a children's fantasy, this is a great universe full of possibilities. There are talking animals, magical creatures from Greek mythology and English fairy tales, and a satisfying and mysterious landscape worth exploring again and again. So, one feels that if the author, C. S. Lewis, had let himself go, he could have created something like The Lord of the Rings.

Unfortunately, he doesn't. The author subordinates himself to the Christian, so the story becomes mostly allegory. The spirit of adventure is covered with sickly-sweet preaching that becomes so cloying towards the end that one almost wants to vomit.

***

This book contains the novels in chronological order: 1. The Magician's Nephew, 2. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, 3. The Horse and His Boy, 4. Prince Caspian, 5. The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, 6. The Silver Chair, 7. The Last Battle. However, the actual publication order is different. There is a debate about the order in which the books should be read. After reading them chronologically, I suggest reading them in the publication order. In my opinion, the last two books, The Horse and His Boy and The Last Battle, are better left unread, especially the last one. I'll say more about that later.

Aslan the Lion represents Christ, as is clear in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (he sacrifices himself to save Edmund Pevensie and is immediately resurrected). The White Witch (and later, the Queen of the Underworld) embodies Evil.

(I was a bit surprised that there was no sign of the devil. Evil is entirely feminine and has a perverse sexual attractiveness. It seems Lewis was really afraid of woman's sexuality: Susan becomes a "non-friend of Narnia" when she becomes a nubile young woman. Lewis's protagonists, like Lewis Carroll's, are prepubescent girls.)

The Christian worldview is clear from the start. For example, animals and birds can be killed and eaten as long as they are not "talking animals" (they have been specially blessed by Aslan, we are told, in the story of the creation of Narnia in The Magician's Nephew). This comes from the Bible where Man is given dominion over all living things on earth. As the story progresses, racism and intolerance of heathens also come into play.

The Calormenes, dark-skinned foreigners who worship a savage god Tash, wear turbans and carry scimitar-like swords, are an Englishman's fantasy of the bloodthirsty and lecherous Turk. In their country, young girls are often married to old men, and they wage war on free countries like Narnia to rape and pillage. Their God Tash is a pagan deity loosely associated with the devil.

The unlikeable brat Eustace Scrubb is the son of liberal parents who are pacifists and vegetarians. He studies in a school without corporal punishment and without teaching the Bible, and is therefore bullied. However, Eustace reforms after a visit to Narnia and returns to school to beat up the bullies. The Principal is removed from the school and eventually becomes a Member of Parliament, where she lives happily ever after (note: M.P.'s are failed schoolteachers who can't put the fear of God into children).

It is in the last book that Lewis goes too far. There is an ape who presents a donkey as Aslan. The ape is part of a conspiracy with the Caloremenes who present their God Tash and Aslan as the same, but don't believe in either. In an Armageddon-like event, Narnia is destroyed, Tash eats his worshippers, and the dwarves who believe in neither are confined in a dark stable of their own creation (is this the fate of atheists?). Also, the ending is really silly (all the friends of Narnia are killed in a train accident so that they can inhabit Aslan's timeless paradise) and, for me, it was disgusting.

So why three stars? Well, if you can ignore the allegory and the preaching, there are some interesting adventures. The first three books are well-written (although a bit simplistic), and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is a classic sea adventure. The Magician's Nephew is very funny in parts. One piece of advice for prospective readers: please skip the last book.

The Chronicles of Narnia is a truly remarkable series that took me a total of 6 years to complete. And boy, am I glad I finally did. There are two ways to approach reading this series. One can either view it as an allegorical interpretation of the Bible or read it through the eyes of a child. I opted for the latter and completely immersed myself in the enchanting world of Narnia.

Although the series had its less-than-stellar moments (The Horse and His Boy, I'm looking at you), overall, the world, characters, and stories crafted by Lewis were truly extraordinary. What's more, these books were an absolute joy to read. In fact, I was in a major book slump and decided to pick up this series again, which successfully pulled me out of that slump.

However, I must admit that I had spoiled myself a long time ago and knew how The Last Battle ends. I was always rather annoyed with the way Lewis handled Susan's character, especially since movie Susan was one of my favorites. But after doing some research, I've come to believe that it was the right decision. Given Lewis' backstory, Susan was a perfect character to represent certain aspects. (Here's a YouTube video that explains it perfectly: LINK)

All in all, even though I understand why this series has received mixed reviews, I couldn't help but fall in love with all the characters Lewis created and the stories they endured. My personal ranking of the books is as follows:

1. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe


2. The Magician's Nephew


3. The Voyage of the Dawn Treader


4. The Last Battle


5. The Silver Chair


6. Prince Caspian


7. The Horse and His Boy

“One day, you will be old enough to start reading fairytales again.”

When I tell you, I grew up listening to these nonstop, day and night, 24/7. I am not joking!!

These stories were a constant companion in my childhood. They filled my days with adventure and wonder.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe was my absolute favorite. It was by far superior to the rest of the books. The characters and the magical world they inhabited captured my imagination like no other.

But when it comes to the radio theater part, I also have a soft spot for The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, The Silver Chair, and The Horse and His Boy. The radio adaptations brought these stories to life in a whole new way.

The sound effects, the voices of the actors, and the music all combined to create an immersive experience.

Listening to these radio plays was like being transported into the world of Narnia. It was a magical experience that I will always cherish.

The Chronicles of Narnia is truly a remarkable series that has held a special place in my heart for a long time. It's not just a set of fictional stories; it's a profound exploration of faith, courage, and the human spirit.

Each book in the series has its own unique charm and significance. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, for example, is a classic that introduces us to the magical world of Narnia and its unforgettable characters. The story of Aslan's sacrifice and the redemption of Edmund is both powerful and moving.

Prince Caspian, on the other hand, is a bit slower-paced but still contains some important scenes. The appearance of Bacchus, however, was a bit of a distraction for me.

The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is a favorite of mine, with its rich spiritual depth and beautiful descriptions. The transformation of Eustace and the journey to the End of the World are truly memorable.

The Silver Chair is a more complex and muddled story, but it still has some wonderful moments. Puddleglum's stand against the villain is a powerful example of bravery and faith.

The Horse and His Boy is a story that I initially thought was boring, but upon rereading, I discovered its hidden depths. The themes of identity and pride are explored in a thought-provoking way.

The Magician's Nephew is a prequel that tells the story of the creation of Narnia. The idea of Aslan singing everything into existence is simply magical.

Finally, The Last Battle is a tragic and beautiful book that explores the themes of heaven and death. It's a hard read, but it's also one of the most important in the series.

Overall, The Chronicles of Narnia is a 5-star series for me. While it may have some flaws, its impact and importance cannot be denied. It's a series that I will continue to reread and cherish for many years to come.

If you haven't read The Chronicles of Narnia yet, I highly recommend that you do. It's a journey that you won't forget. And if you're a fan like me, I hope you enjoy this expanded review of the series.

"Further up, and further in!"