Annotated Bibliography

All My Road Before Me: The Diary of C. S. Lewis, 1922-1927 (1992), ed. by Walter Hooper

Lewis's diary during the 1920s gives a reader interested in Lewis a clearer picture of his intellect, as well as his personality, during this formative period leading up to--but not including--his conversion.

A Grief Observed (1961)

After the death of Lewis's wife Joy Davidman, Lewis struggled with his grief. Writing A Grief Observed was cathartic for the widower, but he was ashamed of his struggles with grief. With the hope that none would stumble on account of his questions, he initially published it under the pseudonym, N. W. Clerk. It is a work which continues to inspire those struggling with issues relating to the loss of a loved one.

Surprised By Joy: The Shape of My Early Life (1955)

In this unique but limited autobiography, Lewis describes his development from childhood and teen years through to his conversion. Citing his education in classic literature, his fascination with myth, and formative events in his early life, Lewis sets the stage for his search for joy.

Children's Fiction

Boxen: The Imaginary World of the Young C. S. Lewis (1986), ed. by Walter Hooper

As a child, Lewis and his brother "Warnie" let their imagination run wild, which eventually led to the creation of the imaginary world of Boxen, a land filled with talking animals. This view into the young Lewis sheds light on Lewis's fascination with talking an--a fascination which remained throughout his life.

The Horse and His Boy (1956)

The fifth of seven books published in the Chronicles of Narnia, this story fits chronologically third, and is found as the third book in many updated box sets. This story is about a talking horse and a boy who run away from the Southern country of Calorman and experience adventures together.

The Last Battle: A Story for Children (1956)

The final book published in the Chronicles of Narnia and the last book chronologically, it is the only book that retains its original publication position in a chronologically-based set. In this book, Eustace and Jill are called back to Narnia to help king Tirian save the Narnians from a false Aslan.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe: A Story for Children (1950)

The first book published in the Chronicles of Narnia. Chronologically it comes second in the plot, so some box sets place it second in a set behind The Magician's Nephew. The story begins with four children named Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy who are staying at a professor's old house in the country to escape the war in London. While playing hide and seek, they find a doorway to a mysterious land through the back of a wardrobe. In this land, they discover Aslan, the Great Lion, and the White Witch.

The Magician's Nephew (1955)

This is the first work chronologically in the Chronicles of Narnia, but the sixth work published. Lewis himself felt that this should be read first, but others have argued for the dramatic recreation of past events later in the series. Digory and Polly unexpectedly discover parallel worlds when Digory's uncle Andrew tries some magic on them. The two meet the evil queen Jadis and watch as the land of Narnia is breathed to life.

Prince Caspian: The Return to Narnia (1951)

The second book published in the Chronicles of Narnia. Chronologically, it would come fourth, and so it is found as such in many updated boxed editions. In this book, we find Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy back in Narnia, called to aid Prince Caspian in winning back the kingdom.

The Silver Chair (1953)

The fourth work published in the Chronicles of Narnia, the sixth chronologically. Eustace Scrubb and Lucy Pole are running away from bullies at school when they find a door to Narnia in this story. There, Aslan gives the children the task of finding the lost prince Rilian.

The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (1952)

The third book published in the Chronicles of Narnia, but the fifth in order chronologically. In this story, Edmund, Lucy and their cousin Eustace board the Dawn Treader with king Caspian on a mission to find seven lords of Narnia. Their adventure takes them to the end of the world, toward Aslan's country.

Adult Fiction

The Great Divorce: A Drama (1945)

Inspired by Dante's Inferno, Lewis wrote his own fictitious rendering of hell. The narrator takes a bus ride to the netherworld to be led by Lewis's "Virgil," George MacDonald. Insightful and witty, Lewis pinpoints the foundations of hell and those who are in it.

Out of the Silent Planet (1938)

The first of Lewis's space-trilogy. In this story, Ransom is kidnapped by a mad scientist named Dr. Weston who takes him to Mars as a sacrifice to the native Martians. Followed by Perelandra, and That Hideous Strength.

Perelandra: A Novel (1943)

The second of Lewis's space-trilogy. Ransom is taken to Venus (what the natives call Perelandra), and is witness to a parallel of Earth's Garden of Eden. Instead of Satan as a snake, tempting the uncorrupted, the evil intruder is the mad scientist, Dr. Weston.

The Pilgrim's Regress: An Allegorical Apology for Christianity, Reason and Romanticism (1933)

Lewis's version of John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress. Part autobiographical, and part allegory, Lewis's "Christian," John, finds himself on a journey to the enchanted island, encountering various modern philosophies which hinder him as he goes.

The Screwtape Letters (1942, Screwtape Proposes a Toast added in 1961)

Originally published in a British newspaper, The Screwtape Letters became an instant success because of its insight into the human condition and the temptations humans encounter. Written in a creative and ingenious way, The Screwtape Letters is a compilation of letters from a devil named Screwtape to his nephew Wormwood, an inexperienced tempter. This is perhaps one of Lewis's most successful works.

That Hideous Strength: A Modern Fairy-Tale for Grown-Ups (1945)

The third and final of Lewis's space-trilogy. Back in England, we find scientist friends of Weston starting an institute which parallels the Tower of Babel. Their founding of the institute, N.I.C.E. (National Institute of Co-ordinated Experiments), is an organization whose aim it is to control all aspects of nature.

Till We Have Faces: A Myth Retold (1956)

The retelling of the myth of Cupid and Psyche. Narrated by Psyche's sister Orual, it is a story about two very different princesses--one ugly, and one beautiful-- who find themselves beyond their pretenses. This was Lewis's favorite novel, but the worst received by critics.

Nonfiction

The Abolition of Man (1943)

One of Lewis's most philosophically demanding, yet prophetic works, The Abolition of Man examines modern notions of relativism and their implications for mankind. Broken into three essays, it speaks as loudly today as it did when it was first written in 1943.

The Allegory of Love: A Study of Medieval Tradition (1936)

In one of Lewis's most respected literary works, The Allegory of Love, Lewis examines love, with an emphasis on courtly love in medieval literature.

Beyond Personality: The Christian Idea of God (1944)

This is the second of three books which presently comprises Mere Christianity. Having set the groundwork for the existence of a divine being in The Case for Christianity, Lewis goes on in this work to explain the trinitarian conception of God. See also The Case for Christianity, Christian Behavior: A Further Series of Broadcast Talks, and Mere Christianity.

The Case for Christianity, or Broadcast Talks (1942)

Lewis's first BBC appearance in which he defends the Christian faith. In this volume, Lewis argues for the necessary existence of an absolute being. This is one of three books which presently comprise Mere Christianity.

Christian Behavior: A Further Series of Broadcast Talks (1943)

This is the second of the BBC broadcast talks that Lewis gave in defense of the Christian faith. In Christian Behavior Lewis lays out Christian morality. This is one of three books which comprise Mere Christianity.

The Discarded Image: An Introduction to Medieval and Re­naissance Literature (1964)

Lewis argues that a modern reader must set aside his or her own worldview and accept the worldview of the medieval world in order to appreciate its literature. In particular, Lewis helps the reader understand medieval philosophy, cosmology, biology and education.

English Literature in the Sixteenth Century, Excluding Drama (1954)

Written originally for The Oxford History of English Literature series, English Literature in the Sixteenth Century remains a classic text to this day. A cursory, yet surprisingly detailed and insightful look at the literature of the sixteenth century.

An Experiment in Criticism (1961)

In a milieu of philosophies of literary criticism, Lewis argues that the reader should let the literature speak for itself before making judgments about the work.

The Four Loves (1960)

An insightful analysis of four different forms of love: affection (storge), friendship (phileo), erotic love (eros) and godly love (agape).

Letters to Malcolm: Chiefly on Prayer (1964)

The last of Lewis's works. Lewis writes as one writing letters to a close friend on the subject of prayer.

Mere Christianity (1952)

A compilation and enlargement of the BBC broadcast talks in which Lewis defends Christianity. It is one of the most cogent defenses of Christianity in the last century.

Miracles: A Preliminary Study (1947) [Chapter Three revised in 1960]

An argument for the philosophical possibility of miracles with an attack on scientific materialism.

The Personal Heresy: A Controversy (1939), with E. M. W. Tillyard

The published version of a debate between Lewis and E. M. W. Tillyard in which they debate literary criticism of poetry. Lewis defined "personal heresy" as the belief that you must understand the author in order to understand his literary works.

A Preface to "Paradise Lost" (1942)

Initially given as lectures at the College at Bangor, this work serves as an academic introduction to Paradise Lost.

The Problem of Pain (1940)

In this philosophic work, Lewis deals with the issue of theodicy.

Reflections on the Psalms (1958)

Lewis's insights into the Psalms in which he examines often asked, but hardly ever answered, questions.

Spenser's Images of Life (1967), ed. by Alastair Fowler

Notes from class lectures Lewis intended to turn into a book, but never did before his death. Fowler later edited these notes into a book.

Studies in Words (1960)

A study of seven words: nature, sad, wit, free, sense, simple and conscience.

Books of Essays Written by C. S. Lewis

Christian Reflections (1967), ed. by Walter Hooper

A collection of fourteen essays on Christianity taken from the last twenty years of his life. Includes: "Christianity and Culture," "Christianity and Literature," "Religion: Reality or Substitute?" "On Ethics," "De Futilitate," "The Poison of Subjectivism," "The Funeral of a Great Myth," "On Church Music," "Historicism," "The Psalms," "The Language of Religion," "Petitionary Prayer: A Problem Without an Answer," "Modern Theology and Biblical Criticism," and "The Seeing Eye."

C. S. Lewis: Essay Collection and Other Short Pieces (2000), ed. by Walmsley, Lesley, ed.

A collection of most of Lewis's religious and ethical essays, addresses and articles.

Fern-Seed and Elephants and Other Essays on Christianity (1975), ed. by Walter Hooper

Eight essays by Lewis including: "Membership," "Learning in War-Time," "On Forgiveness," "Historicism," "The World's Last Night," "Religion and Rocketry," "The Efficacy of Prayer," and "The Fern-Seed Elephants."

God in the Dock: Essays on Theology and Ethics (1970) [Un­deceptions in England] ed. by Walter Hooper

Forty-eight essays and twelve published letters including: "Evil and God," "Miracles," "Dogma and the Universe," "Answers to Questions on Christianity," "Myth Became Fact," "Horrid Red Things," "Religion and Science," "The Laws of Nature," "The Grand Miracle," "Christian Apologetics," "Work and Prayer," "Man or Rabbit?" "On the Transmission of Christianity," "Miserable Offenders," "The Founding of the Oxford Socratic Club," "Religion without Dogma?" "Some Thoughts," "The Trouble with 'X'. . . ," "What Are We to Make of Jesus Christ?" "The Pains of Animals," "Is Theism Important?" "Rejoinder to Dr Pittenger," "Must Our Image of God Go?" "Dangers of National Repentance," "Two Ways With the Self," "Meditation on the Third Commandment," "On the Reading of Old Books," "Two Lectures," "Meditation in a Toolshed," "Scraps," "The Decline of Religion," "Vivisection," "Modern Translations of the Bible," "Priestesses in the Church?" "God in the Dock," "Behind the Scenes," "Revival or Decay?" "Before We Can Communicate," "Cross-Examination," "Bulverism," "First and Second Things," The Sermon and the Lunch," "The Humanitarian Theory of Punishment," "Xmas and Christmas," "What Christmas Means to Me," "Delinquents in the Snow," "Is Progress Possible?" and "We Have No 'Right to Happiness.'"

Of Other Worlds: Essays and Stories (1966), ed. by Walter Hooper

Essays on fiction and fantasy, including: "On Stories," "On Three Ways of Writing for Children," "Sometimes Fairy Stories May Say Best What's to Be Said," "On Juvenile Tastes," "It All Began With a Picture . . . ," "On Criticism," "On Science Fiction," "A Reply to Professor Haldane," "Unreal Estates," "The Shoddy Lands," "Ministering Angels," "Forms of Things Unknown," and "After Ten Years."

Present Concerns (1986), ed. by Walter Hooper

A collection of essays on a variety of topics, including: "The Necessity of Chivalry," "Equality," "Three Kinds of Men," "My First School," "Is English Doomed," "Democratic Education," "A Dream," "Blimpophobia," "Private Bates," "Hedonics," "After Priggery--What?" "Modern Man and His Categories of Thought," "Talking About Bicycles," "On Living in the Atomic Age," "The Empty Universe," "Prudery and Philology," "Interim Report," "Is History Bunk?" and "Sex in Literature."

Rehabilitations and Other Essays (1939)

Extremely rare collection of essays on literature and education, including: "Shelley, Dryden, and Mr Elliot," "William Morris," "The Idea of an 'English School,'" "Our English Syllabus," "High and Low Brows," "The Alliterative Meatre," "Bluspels and Flalanspheres: A Semantic Nightmare," Variations in Shakespeare and Others," and "Christianity and Literature."

Selected Literary Essays (1969), ed. by Walter Hooper

Twenty-two essays on literature, including: "De Descriptione Temporum," "The Alliterative Metre," "What Chaucer Really Did to Il Filostrato," "The Fifteenth-Century Heroic Line," "Hero and Leander," "Variation in Shakespeare and Others," "Hamlet: The Prince or the Poem?" "Donne and Love Poetry in the Seventeenth Century," "The Literary Impact of the Authorized Version," "The Vision of John Bunyan," "Addison," "Four-Letter Words," "A Note on Jane Austen," "Shelley, Dryden, and Mr Elliot," "Sir Walter Scott," "William Morris," "Kippling's World," "Bluspels and Flalanspheres: A Semantic Nightmare," "High and Low Brows," "Metre," "Psycho-Analysis and Literary Criticism," and "The Anthropological Approach."

Studies in Medieval and Renaissance Literature (1966), ed. by Walter Hooper

Containing fourteen essays on Medieval and Renaissance literature, including: "De Audiendis Poetis," "The Genesis of a Medieval Book," "Imagination and Thought in the Middle Ages," "Dante's Similies," "Imagery in the Last Eleven Cantos of Dante's Comedy," "Dante's Statius," "The Morte D'Arthur," "Tasso," "Edmund Spenser, 1552-99," "Spenser's Cruel Cupid," "Genius and Genius," and "A Note on Comus."

They Asked for a Paper: Papers and Addresses (1962)

A collection of Lewis addresses over a twenty-year period on literature and Christianity, including: "De Descriptione Temporum," "The Literary Impact of the Authorized Version," "Hamlet: The Prince or the Poem?" "Kipling's World," "Sir Walter Scott," "Lilies That Fester," "Psycho-Analysis and Literary Criticism," "The Inner Ring," "Is Theology Poetry?" "Transposition," "The Obstinacy in Belief," and "The Weight of Glory."

The Weight of Glory and Other Addresses (1980), expanded and edited by Walter Hooper

Nine addresses on Christianity and Christian behavior, including: "The Weight of Glory," "Learning in War-Time," "Why I Am Not a Pacifist," "Transposition," "Is Theology Poetry?" "The Inner Ring," "Membership," "On Forgiveness," and "A Slip of the Tongue."

The World's Last Night and Other Essays (1960)

Seven essays on Christianity and Christian behavior, including: "The Efficacy of Prayer," "On Obstinacy in Belief," "Lilies That Fester," "Screwtape Proposes a Toast," "Good Work and Good Works," "Religion and Rocketry," and "The World's Last Night."

Books of Poetry and Verse

Dymer (1926) [originally published under the pseudonym Clive Hamilton]

A lengthy narrative poem published previous to Lewis's conversion under a pseudonym.

Narrative Poems (1969), ed. by Walter Hooper

Four long narrative poems, including: "Dymer," "Launcelot," "The Nameless Isle," and "The Queen of Drum."

Poems (1964), ed. by Walter Hooper

Contains over a hundred poems written by Lewis.

Spirits in Bondage: A Cycle of Lyrics (1919) [originally pub­lished under the pseudonym Clive Hamilton]

Lewis's first published work, a collection of poems.

Books Edited by C. S. Lewis

Williams, Charles. Arthurian Torso (1948), ed. by C. S. Lewis

A posthumous collection of The Figure of Arthur with commentary by Lewis.

Essays Presented to Charles Williams (1947) , ed. by C. S. Lewis

Essays written in celebration of one of Lewis's literary mentors, by friends of Williams and literary scholars.

George MacDonald: An Anthology (1946), ed. by C. S. Lewis

A collection of George MacDonald quotes from various works, primarily his Unspoken Sermons.

Books of Letters

Collected Letters of C. S. Lewis Vol. 1: Family Letters, 1905-1931 (2000), ed. by Walter Hooper

This is the first of three volumes of Lewis letters. These volumes are the largest collection of Lewis letters yet published. This volume covers Lewis's childhood and youth, through his atheism, up to his conversion to theism.

Collected Letters of C. S. Lewis Vol. 2: Books, Broadcasts and War 1931-1949 (2004), ed. by Walter Hooper

This is the second of three volumes of Lewis letters. Covering his conversion to Christianity and growth in the faith. It includes letters to friends, strangers, and famous authors, as his renown as an apologist grew around the world.

Collected Letters of C. S. Lewis Vol. 3: Narnia, Cambridge, and Joy 1950-1963 (2005), ed. by Walter Hooper

The final of three volumes of Lewis letters, this volume covers Lewis's correspondence after writing the Chronicles of Narnia, his time at Cambridge, his marriage to Joy, and Joy's illness and death.

Letters to an American Lady (1967), ed. by Clyde S. Kilby

A collection of letters to one American woman who sought Lewis's counsel on a number of issues. It shows Lewis's commitment to letters and a long-term writing relationship.

Letters to Children (1985), ed. by Lyle W. Dorsett and Marjorie Lamp Mead

A collection of Lewis's letters to children. Often fun and insightful, these letters show Lewis's devotion to children as a writer of the Chronicles of Narnia.

Letters of C. S. Lewis (1966), ed. by Warren H. Lewis

An early collection of letters which are helpful and accurate, but superseded by the recent three-volume collection of letters edited by Walter Hooper.

They Stand Together: The Letters of C. S. Lewis to Arthur Greeves, 1914-1963 (1979), ed. by Walter Hooper

A collection of letters spanning almost fifty years to Lewis's boyhood friend Arthur Greeves, whom he called his closest friend apart from his brother.

The Latin Letters of C. S. Lewis (1987), ed. by Martin Moynihan

In response to Lewis's Screwtape Letters, an Italian man who knew Latin, but not English, wrote Lewis in Latin, sparking an interesting relationship with him. These letters demonstrate Lewis's mastery of the Latin language.

Anthologies

Dorsett, Lyle W. ed. The Essential C. S. Lewis (1996)

A collection of pieces from every genre in which Lewis wrote, including the entire texts of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and Perelandra.

Goffar, Janine. The C. S. Lewis Index: A Comprehensive Guide to Lewis's Writings and Ideas (1998)

A topical index of Lewis's ideas and themes, it works like a concordance, pointing the reader to the original texts for full quotation.

Kilby, Clyde S., ed. A Mind Awake: An Anthology of C. S. Lewis (1968)

An anthology of Lewis quotes from virtually all of Lewis's writings on the issues of the nature of man, the moral world, the Bible, the Trinity, sin, the Christian commitment, Hell and Heaven, love and sex, nature, and the post-Christian world.

Martindale, Wayne and Jerry Root, eds. The Quotable Lewis (1990)

A collection of quotes ordered alphabetically by topic, this book is helpful for students writing papers and for Lewis readers interested in what Lewis believed about a variety of issues.

Major Secondary Works

Adey, Lionel. C. S. Lewis: Writer, Dreamer and Mentor (1998)

An examination of Lewis's literary criticism, fiction, apologetics as well as letters, Adey argues that imagination and reason (dreamer and mentor) run throughout Lewis's life and writings. With special attention to Lewis's childhood Boxen stories, Adey looks at formative biographical events in Lewis's life.

Aeschliman, Michael D. The Restitution of Man: C. S. Lewis and the Case Against Scientism (1983)

Showing Lewis as a defender of human sanity, ethics and wisdom in his apologetics, Aeschliman shows why Lewis is so effective against scientific materialism.

Arnott, Anne. The Secret Country of C. S. Lewis (1975)

A short, but early biography on Lewis in a conversational style.

Barfield, Owen. Owen Barfield on C. S. Lewis (1989)

A compilation of essays, addresses and other writings by Lewis's close friend Owen Barfield.

Beversluis, John. C. S. Lewis and the Search for Rational Religion (1985)

A critical work challenging Lewis's use of logic and argumentation.

Bleakley, David. C. S. Lewis: At Home in Ireland (1998)

Written for the centenarian celebration of Lewis's life, Bleakley's biography emphasizes Lewis's childhood in Ireland and shows Ireland's influence on the British author.

Bresland, Ronald W. The Backward Glance: C. S. Lewis and Ireland (1999)

Though it is not the first work to do so as it claims, Bresland explores Lewis's first, and uncompleted "Ulster Novel." Looking at Lewis's Irish background, Bresland considers him an essentially Irish writer.

Burson, Scott R. and Jerry C. Walls. C. S. Lewis and Francis Schaeffer: Lessons for a New Century from the Most In­fluential Apologists of our Time (1998)

An examination of two of the twentieth-century's greatest apologists, C. S. Lewis and Francis Schaeffer, Burson and Walls point out both men's strengths and weaknesses as apologists, particularly as we enter the postmodern world.

Carnell, Corbin Scott. Bright Shadow of Reality: Spiritual Longing in C. S. Lewis (1974, 1999)

An early and influential work on Lewis's use of "sehnsucht," or longing, throughout his life and works, with a focus on Till We Have Faces and the science-fiction trilogy.

Carpenter, Humphrey. The Inklings (1979)

This is a biography on Lewis's literary group who called themselves "the Inklings." Composed of Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Charles Williams, Owen Barfield and others, this group was formative in all of the authors' lives. Carpenter sheds unprecedented light on these influential authors.

Christensen, Michael J. C. S. Lewis on Scripture (1979)

This work delves into the issue of Lewis's view of the Scriptures. Considering Lewis's view of inspiration, literary and mythical questions and the issue of inerrancy, it is a helpful exposition of Lewis's Scriptural understanding.

Christopher, Joe R. C. S. Lewis (1987)

Joe Christopher examines Lewis's life as it relates to his writing and work. He also gives literary criticism of Lewis's literature, particularly focusing on aesthetical issues.

Como, James. Branches to Heaven: The Geniuses of C. S. Lewis (1998)

James Como paints Lewis as a complex and somewhat unsettled man of faith which, Como argues, enables Lewis to understand the questions and concerns of the reader and therefore to be a great apologist.

_____, ed. C. S. Lewis at the Breakfast Table (1979)

A collection of reminiscences by former pupils, colleagues and friends who knew him well.

Cording, Ruth James. C. S. Lewis: A Celebration of His Early Life (2000)

This short biography of Lewis's life is enriched with pictures throughout Lewis's life and world.

Coren, Michael. The Man Who Created Narnia: The Story of C. S. Lewis (1994)

A biography for children which includes helpful pictures.

Cunningham, Richard B. C. S. Lewis: Defender of the Faith (1967)

An early examination of Lewis as an apologist including his epistemology, eschatology, theology, and hermeneutics.

Derrick, Christopher. C. S. Lewis and the Church of Rome (1981)

As a Roman Catholic and former pupil of Lewis, Derrick recognizes the great impact Lewis had on Roman Catholics. He considers why this might be as well as why Lewis, who, he argues, is close to the Catholic faith, did not become Roman Catholic.

Dorsett, Lyle W. And God Came In: The Extraordinary Story of Joy Davidman, Her Life and Marriage to C. S. Lewis (1983)

The definitive biography on Joy Davidman, Lewis's wife. Based on oral history interviews by the author as well as family papers, Dorsett sheds unprecedented light on this remarkable relationship. Also published as A Love Observed.

_____. Seeking the Secret Place: The Spiritual Formation of C. S. Lewis

Based on years of oral history interviews as well as previously unpublished Lewis letters, Dorsett examines Lewis's spiritual formation in the areas of prayer, Scripture, the church, spiritual guidance and as a counselor.

Downing, David C. The Most Reluctant Convert: C. S. Lewis's Journey to Faith (2002)

A biographical work which focuses on Lewis's internal struggle in his conversion to Christianity.

_____. Into the Region of Awe (2005)

Usually considered a man of logic and sense, Lewis is painted as a mystic when Downing explores Lewis's quest for joy and his wide reading in mystical authors, some of whom he recommended and cited.

_____. Planets in Peril: A Critical Study of C. S. Lewis's Ransom Trilogy (1992)

A readable but academic critique of Lewis's space-trilogy which offers insight into the trilogy and the author himself.

Duriez, Colin. The C. S. Lewis Encyclopedia: A Complete Guide to His Life, Thought and Writings (2000)

An encyclopedia with entries covering Lewis's life, relationships, thoughts and themes in his works.

Edwards, Bruce L., Jr. A Rhetoric of Reading: C. S. Lewis's Defense of Western Literacy (1986)

An examination of Lewis as literary critic.

Ford, Paul F. Companion to Narnia (1980)

A readable and insightful guide to the Chronicles of Narnia ordered as encyclopedia entries, this book adds depth to a Narnia reader's understanding.

Gibb, Jocelyn, ed. Light on C. S. Lewis (1965)

A collection of essays by various writers on how Lewis "strikes" them, Light on C. S. Lewis was written just a few years after his death.

Gibson, Evan K., Spinner of Tales: A Guide to His Fiction (1980)

A helpful overview of the characters, themes and ideas in Lewis's fiction.

Gilchrist, K.J. A Morning After War: C. S. Lewis and World War I (2005)

A biography on Lewis focusing on his time in the First World War, and examining its effects on him and his romantic notions of reality.

Glaspey, Terry W., George Grant, ed. Not a Tame Lion: The Spiritual Legacy of C. S. Lewis (1996)

A biography followed by analysis in the Leaders in Action series, this work traces Lewis's imagination, reason and faith in his life and works.

Glover, Donald E. C. S. Lewis: The Art of Enchantment (1981)

Basing his criticism on Lewis's direction in Experiment in Criticism, Glover examines Lewis's own writings.

Gormley, Beatrice, C. S. Lewis: Christian and Storyteller (1997)

A biography of Lewis written for children.

Graham, David. We Remember C. S. Lewis: Essays and Memo­ries (2001)

A compilation of essays by some who have been impacted by Lewis. Writers range from those who knew him to leaders in evangelicalism.

Green, Roger Lancelyn and Walter Hooper. C. S. Lewis: A Biography (1974)

One of the definitive biographies on Lewis, this is an early biographical work based largely from Roger Lancelyn Green's earlier work, C. S. Lewis (1963).

Gresham, Douglas H. Lenten Lands: My Childhood with Joy Davidman & C. S. Lewis (1990)

This autobiographical work by C. S. Lewis's step-son offers glimpses into the private world of C. S. Lewis. Written by one who had unique access to Lewis's private world.

_____. Jack's Life: A Memory of C. S. Lewis (2005)

The second of Gresham's books, Jack's Life focuses more particularly on Lewis. In this biography, Gresham tries to give the clear story of his remarkable step-father.

Griffin, William, Clive Staples Lewis: A Dramatic Life (1986)

A biography of Lewis as a great man, not merely as a great writer or intellect.

_____. C. S. Lewis Spirituality for Mere Christians (1998)

This is a narrative biography where Lewis is given every possible opportunity to comment on his own life through his own writings.

Hannay, Margaret Patterson. C. S. Lewis (1981)

Hannay examines the numerous genres in which Lewis wrote and begins to investigate his legacy in each genre.

Harries, Richard. C. S. Lewis: The Man and His God (1987)

Harries probes into Lewis's view of joy, God, the devil, suffering, poetry, prayer, love and heaven.

Hart, Dabney Adams. Through the Open Door: A New Look at C. S. Lewis (1984)

Hart takes Lewis's advice to resist the "personal heresy" in literary criticism, and rather examine the works themselves for what they are.

Holbrook, David. The Skeleton in the Wardrobe: C. S. Lewis's Fantasies: A Phenomenological Study (1991)

An extremely critical and controversial work interpreting Lewis's works as indications of personality disorders and neurosis.

Holmer, Paul L. C. S. Lewis: The Shape of His Faith and Thought (1976)

Holmer, a theologian and acquaintance of Lewis, argues that Lewis's great insight was his understanding that literature draws powerfully on emotions in a way which can be used to bring people to better understand faith.

Hooper Walter, ed. C.S. Lewis Companion and Guide: A De­lightful Compendium of Information of the Life and Writ­ing of the Twentieth-Century's Favorite Christian Writer (1998)

A key resource for understanding Lewis's writings, including background information on his works and how the works were received. It also includes a short biographical piece introducing the reader to Lewis's life and works.

_____. Past Watchful Dragons: The Narnian Chronicles of C. S. Lewis (1979)

A classic work in Narnian studies, Hooper shares Lewis's philosophy of literature and shows how Lewis crafted the Narnian stories.

_____. Through Joy and Beyond: A Pictorial Biography of C. S. Lewis (1982)

A biographical work with pictures of Lewis, his family and his world.

Howard, Thomas. The Achievement of C. S. Lewis (1980)

A literary assessment of Lewis's works in which Howard encourages the reader to "look with" Lewis at the world, not "at Lewis."

_____. C. S. Lewis Man of Letters: A Reading of His Fiction (2004)

In this analysis of Lewis's literary works, Howard shows how Lewis uses his works to share his moral vision. Particular focus is on Narnia, the Space Trilogy and Till We Have Faces.

Keefe, Caroline. C. S. Lewis: Speaker and Teacher (1971)

A collection of essays by important Lewis scholars and friends who explore his oral communication through teaching, lecturing, debating and radio broadcasts.

Jacobs, Alan. The Narnian: The Life and Imagination of C. S. Lewis (2005)

A portrait of Lewis through his literature as a man who had great loss and delight, experiences which fostered much richness and meaning.

Kilby, Clyde S. The Christian World of C. S. Lewis (1964)

An introduction to Lewis as an apologist which analyzes his ideas and arguments. Written shortly after Lewis's death.

_____. Images of Salvation in the Fiction of C. S. Lewis (1978)

A summary of all 14 of Lewis's novels with an examination of the Christian meaning in each.

King, Don. C. S. Lewis, Poet: The Legacy of His Poetic Impulse (2001)

Considering Lewis's poetry--particularly in his early years--King argues that his poetic upbringing enhanced his prose.

Kort, Wesley. C. S. Lewis: Then and Now (2001)

Written from a more skeptical and liberal mindset, Kort attempts to "retrieve" Lewis from both his outdated context and evangelicals who have put him on a pedestal.

Kreeft, Peter. C. S. Lewis: A Critical Essay (1969)

A short early work which serves as a good introduction to Lewis's life and writings.

_____. C. S. Lewis for the Third Millennium (1994)

In six essays on the Abolition of Man, Kreeft argues that Lewis speaks not just for his era, but also as a prophet to society in the third millennium.

_____. The Shadow Lands of C. S. Lewis: The Man Behind the Movie (1994)

An examination of Lewis's views on love, grief and pain in response to the movie, The Shadowlands.

Lawlor, John. C. S. Lewis: Memories and Reflections (1998)

A former pupil and colleague, Lawlor shows Lewis in his context as a scholar at Oxford while also delving into his science fiction and children's literature.

Lindskoog, Kathryn A. C. S. Lewis Hoax (1988)

A highly controversial book which has rocked Lewis scholarship forever in its accusation that the literary executors of the Lewis estate have forged or allowed forged writings to pass for Lewis's post-humously published works. It was later followed by Light in the Shadowlands (1994), and Sleuthing the Real C. S. Lewis (2001).

_____. Light in the Shadowlands: Protecting the Real C. S. Lewis (1994)

A sequel to the controversial C. S. Lewis Hoax, Lindskoog continues on her quest to protect Lewis from forged writings. It was followed by Sleuthing the Real C. S. Lewis (2001).

_____. C. S. Lewis: Mere Christian (1987)

Lindskoog examines Lewis's "Mere Christianity" on the issues of reality, destiny, mystery, character, and culture.

_____. Finding the Landlord: A Guidebook to C. S. Lewis's Pilgrim's Regress (1997)

An exploration of The Pilgrim's Regress, Lindskoog helps the reader understand the symbolism in and the background of Lewis's first post-conversion novel.

_____. The Lion of Judah in Never-Never Land: God, Man and Nature in C. S. Lewis's Narnia Tales (1973)

Lindskoog lays out the what the Chronicles of Narnia say about God, man and nature.

_____. Sleuthing the Real C. S. Lewis: More Light in the Shadowlands (2001)

Lindskoog's final book examining the authenticity of Lewis's post-humus writings and the Lewis literary estate. It was preceded by The C. S. Lewis Hoax (1988) and Light in the Shadowlands (1994).

Lindvall, Terry. Surprised By Laughter (1996)

Lindvall argues that Lewis, rather than being a dry theologian, injects his writings with "angelic mirth" and laughter in his wit and insight.

Markos, Louis. Lewis Agonistes: How C. S. Lewis Can Train Us to Wrestle with the Modern and Postmodern World (2003)

Markos argues that Christians have not effectively critiqued Modernism and Postmodernism, but Lewis helps us wrestle with the two dominant worldviews of the twentieth century.

Martin, Thomas L. Reading the Classics with C. S. Lewis (2000)

A collection of essays written by literary scholars and Lewis experts which explores Lewis's interaction with classic literature.

Martindale, Wayne. Beyond the Shadowlands (2005)

Probes Lewis's view of Heaven and Hell in his nonfiction and fiction. Martindale shows how Lewis debunks myths about Heaven and Hell in his non-fiction, and uses his non-fiction to interpret the afterlife.

Meilaender, Gilbert. The Taste for the Other: The Social and Ethical Thought of C. S. Lewis (1998)

Meilaender examines Lewis's social ethic, morality, pride, and Christian fellowship and argues that Lewis has a vision for community centered around love.

Menuge, Angus J. L., ed. C. S. Lewis: Lightbearer in the Shadowlands: The Evangelistic Vision of C. S. Lewis (1997)

A compilation of essays on Lewis's evangelistic vision broken into four parts: 1) Motivation, 2) Explanation (why it is good), 3) Technique (plausibility), and 4) Argument (the defense).

Mueller, Stephen P. Not a Tame God: Christ in the Writings of C. S. Lewis (2002)

Mueller shows how Lewis pointed to Christ in his various works and in different genres.

Mills, David, ed. Pilgrims' Guide: C. S. Lewis and the Art of Witness (1998)

Shows Lewis as a witness to the truth of Christianity in a collection of essays broken into two groups: 1) Character of a witness, and 2) Work of a witness.

Milward, Peter. A Challenge to C. S. Lewis (1995)

Milward argues that Lewis fails to fully grasp medieval literature because he understands the background of medieval literature as pagan, rather than seeing the Catholic underpinnings.

Morris, A. Clifford. Miles and Miles: Some Reminiscences of an Oxford Taxi Driver and Private Care Home Service Chauffeur (1964)

As C. S. Lewis's personal chauffer, Clifford Morris shares his life and friendship with Lewis in this rare book.

Myers, Doris T. C. S. Lewis in Context (1994)

An attempt to put Lewis and his works in the context in which he wrote, which is in the linguistic theory that language was metaphorical and impressionistic rather than objective and empirical.

Nicholi, Armand J., Jr. The Question of God: C. S. Lewis and Sigmund Freud Debate God, Love, Sex, and the Meaning of Life (2003)

Nicholi contrasts Lewis and Freud and their governing philosophies.

Payne, Leanne. Real Presence: The Holy Spirit in the Works of C. S. Lewis (1979)

Payne argues that Lewis points the reader into an "incarnational reality" of the Holy Spirit in the believer.

Pearce, Joseph. C. S. Lewis and the Catholic Church (2003)

Asking himself why so many readers of Lewis have been led to the Catholic faith, Pearce examines Lewis's life and writings, arguing that Lewis is in many ways Catholic, but that his Protestant Ulster heritage prevented him from its full acceptance.

Peters, John. C. S. Lewis: The Man and His Achievement (1985)

Peters outlines Lewis's life and work as a visionary, allegorist, apologist, writer of science fiction, scholar and correspondent.

Phillips, Justin. C. S. Lewis at the BBC: Messages of Hope in the Darkness of War (2003)

This book sheds light on Lewis's defense of the faith on the BBC in the context of the war and shows how the BBC helped shape his beloved classic which we now know as Mere Christianity.

Purtill, Richard. C. S. Lewis's Case for the Christian Faith (1981)

An assessment of Lewis's apologetic, examining Lewis's view of the nature of God, Christ, miracles, and the afterlife.

Reed, Gerald. C. S. Lewis and the Bright Shadow of Holiness (1999)

An exploration of holiness and transformation as a key theme in the works of Lewis.

­_____. C. S. Lewis Explores Vice and Virtue (2001)

Reed systematically lays out Lewis's views on the seven deadly sins and virtues.

Reppert, Victor. C. S. Lewis's Dangerous Idea: A Philosophical Defense of Lewis's Argument from Reason (2003)

Reppert defends Lewis's philosophical contention that atheistic naturalism logically prevents one from trusting logic. Reppert argues that Lewis's challenge of naturalism must be taken seriously.

Ryken, Leland and Marjorie Lamp Mead. A Reader's Guide Through the Wardrobe: Exploring C. S. Lewis's Classic Story (2005)

A helpful guide through The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe which examines the literary features of the stories, often through the lens of Lewis's own literary philosophy and criticism.

Sammons, Martha C. A Guide Through C. S. Lewis's Space Trilogy (1980)

A guide to Lewis's space trilogy, focusing particularly on the biblical, Arthurian, medieval and historical background of his work.

_____. A Guide Through Narnia (1979, revised 2004)

An early in-depth study of the Chronicles of Narnia, Sammons shows how the works were created in the mind of Lewis. Chapters focus on seeing pictures, selecting the ideal form, seeing man as hero, stealing past dragons, stepping through the door, and includes a dictionary of names and places.

Sayer, George. Jack: A Life of C. S Lewis (1988, revised 1994)

Thus far the definitive biography on Lewis. Based on primary sources and interviews, this friend of Lewis paints an insightful picture of the British writer.

Schakel, Peter J. Reading With the Heart: The Way Into Narnia (1979, 2005)

A classic in Narnia studies, Schakel encourages the reader of Narnia to view them as fairy tales. This work also answers many questions a reader might have about the Chronicles of Narnia. Includes a discussion on each of the Narnia tales.

_____. Reason and Imagination in C. S. Lewis: A Study of Till We Have Faces (1984)

A helpful study and overview of what Lewis called his favorite work of literature by one of the best experts on Lewis's literary work.

_____, ed. The Longing for a Form: Essays on the Fiction of C. S. Lewis (1976)

This early study of Lewis's literary work is a compilation of fourteen essays by literary and Lewis scholars.

_____ and Charles A. Huttar, eds. Word and Story in C. S. Lewis (1991)

A compilation of essays by various literary authors and Lewis scholars with the aim of showing that language and narrative are the keys to more fully understanding Lewis's works.

Schofield, Stephen, ed. In Search of C. S. Lewis (1983)

A collection of interviews with people who knew Lewis.

Schultz, Jeffrey D. and John G. West, eds. The C. S. Lewis Readers' Encyclopedia (1998)

An encyclopedia on Lewis that includes information on his ideas and themes as well as biographical information on family, friends and colleagues and other topics.

Sibley, Bri an. C. S. Lewis through the Shadowlands: The Story of His Life with Joy Davidman (1994)

A biography of Lewis centered around his works with a focus on his relationship with Joy Davidman.

Skinner, Andrew C., and Robert L. Millet, eds. C. S. Lewis: The Man and His Message (1999)

A collection of essays by Mormons which shows Lewis's impact on the Church of Latter- Day Saints.

Smith, Robert H. Patches of Godlight: The Pattern of Thought in C. S. Lewis (1981)

In this work, Smith argues that Lewis thought that imagination is most nobly used to lead one to "higher truths."

Taliaferro, Charles C. Praying with C. S. Lewis (1998)

This book helps the reader learn about Lewis's spiritual life and thought as he leads us to prayer.

Vanauken, Sheldon. A Severe Mercy (1978)

The autobiography of Sheldon Vanauken in which he describes Lewis's impact on him through letters during a critical period in his life.

Vaus, Will. Mere Theology: A Guide to the Thought of C. S. Lewis (2004)

A breakdown of Lewis's thought to a systematic theology on major, and minor doctrines.

Walsh, Chad. C. S. Lewis: Apostle to the Skeptics (1949)

The first book published on C. S. Lewis. Includes Chad Walsh's early reviews of Lewis's works, including his BBC recordings, the Screwtape Letters, and The Great Divorce.

_____. The Literary Legacy of C. S. Lewis (1978)

An examination of Lewis as a singular author whose mind brought together both apologetics and fantasy.

White, Michael. C. S. Lewis: A Life (2004)

A recent biography with little or no information to add to the already crowded Lewis biography section.

White, William Luther. The Image of Man in C. S. Lewis (1969)

White examines Lewis's theological anthropology which he presented so that the layman could understand.

Willis, John Randolph. Pleasures Forevermore: The Theology of C. S. Lewis (1983)

This is the first work on Lewis by a Catholic priest and represents a Catholic's reaction to Lewis's ecclesiology and theology.

Wilson, A. N. C. S. Lewis: A Biography (1990, 2002)

Written as a corrective of supposed hagiographies on Lewis, Wilson's biography is filled with factual and interpretive errors which a reader must read with discerning care.

Compiled by Jake Hanson