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Review: If I Had Lunch with C.S. Lewis: Exploring the Ideas of C.S. Lewis on the Meaning of Life by Alister McGrath



Review: If I Had Lunch with C.S. Lewis: Exploring the Ideas of C.S. Lewis on the Meaning of Life
Alister McGrath
Tyndale House Publishers
2014

What a treat this book was for me!  Why? Because it is a relaxed conversation about some of the work of C.S. Lewis.  He authored more than Narnia and lots to say that is still very relevant today.  What I did not know when I requested this book is that McGrath is a bit of an expert on Lewis’ life and works.  So a double treat for me.  

McGrath explores several of the important themes found within the writing of Lewis, starting with the meaning of life and ending with Lewis’ thoughts on hope and heaven.  The range is broad and presented in a sort of format that keeps things interesting---imaginary luncheon conversations with Lewis.  Well, almost luncheons, anyway.  I was hoping for more from Lewis, but McGrath digs into various writings and presents what he believes Lewis would have said during those lunches.  Even Narnia has much more to say then I had seen before.  I thought they were stories for children and they are, but stories that help link some important concepts.  Might be a good thing for those who would like to write children’s literature to examine them more closely. 

This little book, 240 or so pages including end notes, opens the world of C. S. Lewis and his thinking in a way that will make the reader glad he spent time with it.  And for me, it shed light on so many things I had missed when I had read Lewis.  McGrath’s style is easy, and the material is organized in a way that each chapter can stand alone.  But, start at the front to meet C.S. Lewis, the man, as he lived his life.  

I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to you.

This book was provided by the publisher in return for a review. 

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