Into the Wardrobe

Well, you'd better read the Space Trilogy next if you haven't read it already (and if you have, it's always fun to read again! -- as are all his books:-)

(The Space Trilogy is composed of three separate books -- not required to read in order, but best if you do -- Out of the Silent Planet, Perelandra, and That Hideous Strength)

A special edition of A Severe Mercy was the fist gift I gave my (then to be future) wife 25 years ago. Have you heard of the follow-up book called "Under the Mercy" about Vanauken's conversion to Catholicism? There is also another book of shorter pieces called "The Little Lost Marion and other Mercies" in which he talks about meeting up, many years later, with the woman that Davy had given up for adoption before meeting Van (he didn't mention that at all in the first book -- it is a touching story in itself)

--Stanley

Thank you, Stanley. I had asked a former professor of mine the same question, and he also suggested the Space Trilogy.

I have, just recently, in fact, heard of the two books you mentioned. I was doing research on Mr. VanAuken after reading A Severe Mercy this second time, and I discovered them. They aren't that easy to find, though. I have found a couple of places with copies of Under the Mercy that aren't too expensive, but the cheapest I've found Little Marion is about $80.00. Too bad. I guess that's because it's out of print?

I'll get on that Space Trilogy soon. Thanks again.

I agree with Stanley about the Space Trilogy--although for someone fairly new to Lewis I might suggest a break after Perelandra before going on to That Hideous Strength.

In addition, I would work in The Great Divorce and The Abolition of Man soon.

All the best.

No need to hurry.

God in the Dock is a powerful collection of CSL's shorter theological essays.

Definitely read the Space Trilogy :). Maybe I should start a group reread (not a study, something very informal with everyone going at their own pace) on the ST forum in fact.

You can't go wrong with the Walter Hooper edited Essay Collection and Other Short Pieces. It's the one I dip into the most. And what about The Great Divorce, or the Pilgrim's Regress?