Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Book Review: Advent in Narnia

Advent in Narnia: Reflections for the Season. Heidi Haverkamp. 2015. Westminster John Knox Press. 96 pages. [Source: Review copy]

Advent in Narnia is a great read for any Narnia lover looking for a book to read during Advent. Not that the book is only for Narnia-lovers. It isn't. Anyone genuinely seeking a book to read and savor during Advent will find this one worth the time it takes. The book does center around C.S. Lewis' The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. But it does so not at the cost of Scripture. Haverkamp quotes Scripture just as liberally as she quotes Lewis. Which is how it should be.

The first week's readings focus on "the wardrobe." The second week's readings focus on "the witch." The third week's readings focus on "Father Christmas." And finally, the fourth week's readings focus on "The Lion." Each day's reading includes a bit of Scripture, a bit of Lewis, and discussion/reflection questions.

The book also includes four sessions for small groups. Everything is practically organized in case readers want to lead a small group through the book.

If the book does become the interest of a whole church--or congregation--the book includes tips on hosting a Narnia Night for Families at your local church. Again the book gives very thorough advice on implementing this.

Overall, I liked this one very much. I've read The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe many times. I do sometimes forget, however, that it is a Christmas-y book. I do think it's a great choice for families to read together. That is The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe is a great choice for families to read together! I do believe this book is a good follow-up.

© Becky Laney of Operation Actually Read Bible

1 comment:

Carol said...

I saw this one and was wondering about it. Sounds like a good one.