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Cover of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Fantasy· United Kingdom

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

by C.S. Lewis
Aggregate Editorial Score17/100
BBC Big Read
Published 1950English
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About This Book

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis is a landmark work of fantasy, first published in 1950. Four children step through a wardrobe into Narnia, a land frozen in eternal winter by the White Witch, and join the great lion Aslan in the struggle to restore spring. Lewis's beloved allegorical fantasy has introduced millions of children to the Christian story through the back of a wardrobe. Themes of good vs. evil, allegory, Christianity run through the work. The book has received recognition from BBC Big Read 1950.

Book Details

AuthorC.S. Lewis
Published1950
Country of Origin🇬🇧 United Kingdom
LanguageEnglish
Category🐉 Fantasy
ISBN9780064404990
Editorial Score17/100
About the Category

🐉 Fantasy

Stories set in imaginary worlds with magical or supernatural elements.

Explore all Fantasy books →
Country of Origin

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

This book is part of United Kingdom's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from United Kingdom →

Editorial Assessment

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis sits within the tradition of fantasy that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1950 in United Kingdom, it engages with good vs. evil, allegory, Christianity, imagination in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Among its recognitions: BBC Big Read 1950. Its aggregate editorial score of 17/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. Readers coming to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of good vs. evil, allegory, Christianity, imagination is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Within United Kingdom's literary landscape, C.S. Lewis occupies a significant position. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

BBC Big Read
list · national
195017
✍️
About the Author
C.S. Lewis
United Kingdom
View Author →

C.S. Lewis is a celebrated author from United Kingdom known for influential works of fantasy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe about?

Four children step through a wardrobe into Narnia, a land frozen in eternal winter by the White Witch, and join the great lion Aslan in the struggle to restore spring. Lewis's beloved allegorical fantasy has introduced millions of children to the Christian story through the back of a wardrobe.

Who wrote The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe?

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe was written by C.S. Lewis, from United Kingdom. First published in 1950.

What awards has The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe won?

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe has received the following awards and honours: BBC Big Read 1950.

Is The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe worth reading?

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a book that has earned critical recognition, with an aggregate editorial score of 17/100 on 50 Best Books, based on mentions across 1 editorial source. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in good vs. evil, allegory, Christianity.

Where can I buy The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe?

You can buy The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe?

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is classified as Fantasy. Stories set in imaginary worlds with magical or supernatural elements.

What country is The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe from?

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe originates from United Kingdom's literary tradition. Explore more books from United Kingdom on our country page.

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