A Life Observed

August 1, 2013
C. S. Lewis is probably best known for his much-loved Chronicles of Narnia. But he also wrote several works of Christian apologetics, including Mere Christianity (1952) and Surprised by Joy (1955), which remain immensely popular and widely praised for their accessibility and readability. Lewis believed that Christianity was first and foremost about experiencing God in one's life. While there are doctrines that cannot be ignored, it is the experiential dimension of Christianity that has the ability to transform lives over time. Quite appropriately then, Brown's biography recounts events from Lewis' life and quotes from his books, letters, and diary in order to tell the story of his spiritual journey. And it's a fascinating tale, especially when one considers that Lewis was not always a Christian. When he did embrace Christianity as a man in his early thirties, he described himself as the most dejected and reluctant convert. Fans of Lewis will find much here to savor. So, too, will those interested in a man's lifelong attempt to live out his faith.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)