The Reading Life
The Joy of Seeing New Worlds Through Others' Eyes
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The revered teacher and bestselling author reflects on the power, importance, and joy of a life dedicated to reading books in this delightful collection drawn from his wide body of writings. More than fifty years after his death, revered intellectual and teacher C. S. Lewis continues to speak to readers, thanks not only to his intellectual insights on Christianity but also his wondrous creative works and deep reflections on the literature that influenced his life. Beloved for his instructive novels including The Screwtape Letters, The Great Divorce, and The Chronicles of Narnia as well as his philosophical books that explored theology and Christian life, Lewis was a life-long writer and book lover. Cultivated from his many essays, articles, and letters, as well as his classic works, The Reading Life provides guidance and reflections on the love and enjoyment of books. Engaging and enlightening, this well-rounded collection includes Lewis’ reflections on science fiction, why children’s literature is for readers of all ages, and why we should read two old books for every new one. A window into the thoughts of one of the greatest public intellectuals of our time, this collection reveals not only why Lewis loved the written word, but what it means to learn through literature from one of our wisest and most enduring teachers.
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The Reading Life is a small book with big ideas. It’s a wonderfully curated collection of essays by C.S. Lewis detailing his love of books and reading - from their physical qualities to the philosophical, theological, and emotional thoughts evoked from reading them. He shares his thoughts on rereading books, the value of fairy tales, and reflects on his life as a young student.
"It has always therefore been one of my main endeavours as a teacher to persuade the young that firsthand knowledge is not only more worth acquiring than secondhand knowledge but is usually much easier and more delightful to acquire.", writes Lewis regarding the case for reading old books.
This book itself offers a good example of something that should be reread often. It’s something that shouldn’t be read in a single session but sparingly consumed in sips to be savored and digested over time. When finished, it should live on a coffee table or some other place easily at hand, for the essays are short, easily consumed and worth a few moments of reflection.
I want to thank the YouTube creator, Randy Ray - The Literate Texan for recommending this book.
