It's time to discuss The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe Everyone's welcome to join in even if you don't want to be part of the book group every month. Here's a few questions on the book - don't feel you have to answer all of them if you don't want to.

Did you enjoy reading it?

Did you notice the Christian symbolism in this book? (Such as Aslan's death and then ressurection symbolising Jesus') How effective did you find it? Do you think it added to the story?

Considering that Tolkien and C.S. Lewis were friends and would have disscussed their books together hat differences and similarites are their between The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe and Tolkien's work?

Do you think that the film version that is coming out at Christmas is a good idea or not?

If you've seen the BBC version what did you think of it?

Are there any parts of the story you think should be left out or changed in the movie?

Any other comments?

I think that's enough questions to be going on with Don't feel you have to answer tham all if you don't want to.

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I havent done this before, but here goes...


- Yes, I love this book. I've read plenty of times before, and never get bored.

- I did notice the Christian element, being Christian myself. To me it was a very good portrayal of Jesus' death and ressurection, because of the fictional setting and the fact that it kept you interested as a story, not just 'this is what happened centuries ago'. It actually makes you think about what he actually did, and what it cost.

- I think one of the main differences was that Lewis included current happenings in his world in his books, in a very plain way. His characters came and went from Earth, and the society he knew.
Tolkien didnt. Some people say that different parts of his books were based on what he had seen in the War, but its never clearly stated. The world he created was very seperate from everything we know.

Also, although both books/series have deeper meanings and more to them than whats apparent, I find Narnia is more clearly portraying things, such as Jesus + Aslan. There are more parallels.
Tolkien included more morals and truths.

-I'm not opposed to the new film comming out, but I'm not sure it will potray all the characters very well, from what I've seen of the trailers.

-The BBC versions were pretty good. They didnt miss vital story lines or anything. The filming itself isnt to bad, but it was made a little while ago, so special effects are a bit shoddy. I didnt like it how Aslan flew though. In the books he ran.

-I dont think anything should be changed, or left out. I like the stories the way they are.
I understand that things will need to be cut to fit it into a movie, but I hope they dont change anything with the new movies.


-Good book. I like thats intended for all ages groups, and is interesting no matter how old you are.
Its not hard for a young child to follow, but its also got alot of meaning.
I also like the fact that it is really 'story like', not a great big complex adventure, like LotR.
And I find it interesting (in a good way) that the author sometimes refers to himself and the reader, like he's talking to you. You dont see that often.

I didn't read it with the group, exactly, but I read it very recently, so I think I'll give my two cents.

Did you enjoy reading it?
Oh, absolutely. The first time I heard the book was when my parents read the whole series allowed to my younger brother (Rad) and I. When I reread it this year, I was surprised to find I felt exactly the same way I had when I was a seven year old!

Did you notice the Christian symbolism in this book? (Such as Aslan's death and then ressurection symbolising Jesus') How effective did you find it? Do you think it added to the story?
I think that, like J.R.R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis didn't set out to write an allegorical book. He didn't sit down and say, "All right then, I think I'll write a book brimming with Christian symbolism." One thing that I've really realized through reading Lewis and Tolkien is that unless you try very hard to avoid it, your beliefs will come out in your writing.
As for how effective I found it; as a seven year old, I remember realizing things about Jesus that I never realized before. I have to admit that a lion that lets people ride on his back and saves the world is so much more appealing to a little girl than a man is! Not to say that I began to worship Alsan; but he did help me to understand God's Son better. A friend once read me a segment from 'Letters from C.S. Lewis to children.' One of the letters was from a concerned child, dictating to his mother. He was afraid that he loved Aslan more than Jesus, and wanted to know if he was sinning. C.S. Lewis wrote back and told the boy that since Aslan is really a reflection of Jesus, it's all right. What he loved about Aslan were the things that he had in common with Jesus; and it was really the qualities he loved, not the body. And of course, it's understandable for a child to be more excited by a lion than a man!
I think it made the story. And not just because I am a Christian; I think most people can say they like redemption, I know that out of all the children I could well be Edmund. What if Aslan had not forgiven him? I would have put down the book then and there.

Considering that Tolkien and C.S. Lewis were friends and would have disscussed their books together hat differences and similarites are their between The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe and Tolkien's work?
Well, I read somewhere that Tolkien distinctly disliked Lewis's work. Too 'allegorical.'

Do you think that the film version that is coming out at Christmas is a good idea or not?
I was skeptical at first. I'm very, very excited now...I think it's wonderful that such a good book is being brought back. The Narnia toothpaste is going a little far, (darn Disney and all their marketing) but overall I think it's just great.

If you've seen the BBC version what did you think of it?
I loved it. The person who said that Lucy was 'harpoonable' needs to stop writing reviews. That movie absolutely amazed me when I was younger...I saw past all the technical flaws and went straight to the heart of the movie. Even now, I love it. And the theme music was wonderful.

Are there any parts of the story you think should be left out or changed?
Ahh, who am I to edit one of my favorite stories?

Any other comments?
Not really. I love the whole series. That's it.

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I am a Shieldmaiden for Christ!

I was Nienor before Nienor was cool. *nods coolly*
Kudos to Kitoky for the fabulous signature set, and art credit to engelszorn.
Who wants to join me in bringing back the lady?

Um, hi. I'm not even a part of the book group, but I have read this book numerous times. Is it ok if I comment on it? I really wish I could read all these books with you guys...but school will not allow it. I hope nobody minds...

Did you enjoy reading it?
Of course. I've always loved this book. I love how Lewis describes all of the characters. I feel I can identify with most, if not all, of them. And I always find something new I didn't see before, or understand the whole story on a new level. I call that a good story.

Did you notice the Christian symbolism in this book? (Such as Aslan's death and then ressurection symbolising Jesus') How effective did you find it? Do you think it added to the story?
Yes, in so many parts of the story. I am a Christian, and I think I wouldn't like the book half as much if there was no symbolism. I am so encouraged when I read it. Whenever there's a scene with Aslan, such as his death, I always see Jesus. And the way Aslan shows mercy to Edmund is exactly how Jesus shows mercy to us. So, yes, it really did add to the story for me.

Do you think that the film version that is coming out at Christmas is a good idea or not?
I think it is. I myself am very excited about it. I'm sure there will be parts that I and others will disagree with. It's just a given. But I think it will give people a new perspective on the story to see it visually.

If you've seen the BBC version what did you think of it?
I liked it when I was little, but I highly dislike it now. Aslan -- a puppet? The actors who played the children....to be frank...annoyed me. I don't think they portrayed their characters accurately.

Are there any parts of the story you think should be left out or changed?
Indeed, no!

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^Thanks Gily!
<By Bubble Black

Of course you can join in. Anyone can as long as they've read the book we are talking about

Did you enjoy reading it?
Yes it was great to read it again. The chronicles of Narnia were my favourite books from when I was 7 up until I was about 11. I also noticed different things in it from when I was younger.
However I can also see the problems that Philip Pullman has with these books having read some of what he's said on them. There are some points where I don't agree with C.S Lewis / the narrator and this sometimes spoils things.

Did you notice the Christian symbolism in this book? (Such as Aslan's death and then resurrection symbolising Jesus') How effective did you find it? Do you think it added to the story?
Yes I noticed it and I think it is done very well. It adds to the story for Christians and anyone familiar with Christianity however it is not intrusive to the story. Anyone can enjoy them whether they get the symbolism or not.

Considering that Tolkien and C.S. Lewis were friends and would have discussed their books together what differences and similarities are there between The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe and Tolkien's work?

Well there are obvious similarities such as the magical world, an evil enemy to fight against and a great final battle where good triumphs.

A big difference I see between them is while Tolkien describes everything C S Lewis leaves lots to the imagination. This is one of my favourite things about Lewis - there are hints of other stories and events lying below the surface - the references to the great emperor beyond the sea I find fascinating for example - we nothing about him yet even Aslan has to obey his rules. Again along these lines I love the quote "in the stillness and darkness before time dawned.."

Also as other people have mentioned there's the use of allegory. Tolkien hated it - though ever since people have been saying it's there in his stories - and it's a very main feature in the Narnia stories.

The books are definitely aimed at different audiences too. Lewis' books are aimed at children where as Tolkien's books don't seem to be. I know the Hobbit is often seen as a children's book but I think children enjoy it because of the great adventure not because it's specifically written for them. And actually when I was younger I wasn't that keen on the hobbit. I didn't see the fun in a main character who hated adventures. I found it far easier to identify with Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy who chose to enter Narnia through the wardrobe.
Now however I really like the idea of the unlikely and reluctant hero Bilbo.

Do you think that the film version that is coming out at Christmas is a good idea or not?

That depends if it's a good version or not I can see why they're making it what with the success of LotR and Harry Potter and I am hoping it will be good. I think the story should be able to be translated into a great film and it's a great time to release it - just before Christmas

If you've seen the BBC version what did you think of it?

It was good even though the special effects were slightly lacking. I haven’t seen it for ages though.

Are there any parts of the story you think should be left out or changed in the movie?

I would (and I think the director will) leave out the line where Father Christmas tells Susan and Lucy that they should not be in the battle because it's sexist. It's also ridicules because in Prince Caspian we see that Susan is a better archer than the dwarf who is meant to be a skilled archer among his people. Why would you leave people like that out of your army just because they are female?

I'm not sure what else should be changed but I expect some will be and should be. Films almost never work if they are just a page by page version of the book. Well except the BBC version of P & P but that was a drama and they had 6 hours.

Any other comments?
Quote:
Tolkien included more morals and truths.


I've heard this said before when people are comparing LotR with Harry Potter but I've never been very sure about it. What "morals and truths" do you think are specifically part of LotR?

Quote:
I think that, like J.R.R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis didn't set out to write an allegorical book. He didn't sit down and say, "All right then, I think I'll write a book brimming with Christian symbolism." One thing that I've really realized through reading Lewis and Tolkien is that unless you try very hard to avoid it, your beliefs will come out in your writing.


Really? I wouldn't agree with that. I think that the symbolic parts are too big a part of the story line of Lewis' books to be accidental or unplanned especially Aslan's death for Edmund and then resurrection.

Here's a quote of what he was trying to do when he wrote them:
"'I did not say to myself 'Let us represent Jesus as He really is in our world by a Lion in Narnia'; I said 'Let us suppose that there were a land like Narnia and that the Son of God, as he became a Man in our world, became a Lion there, and then imagine what would happen'. "
http://www.aslan.demon.co.uk/cslfaq.htm

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I read it this morning in the library whilst I was waiting to take an exam, so here goes

Did you enjoy reading it?
Yes, very much so! It was a little short for me, but I really enjoyed it. Of course, it is meant to be a children's book, so it being a little short is not a bad thing.

Did you notice the Christian symbolism in this book? (Such as Aslan's death and then ressurection symbolising Jesus') How effective did you find it? Do you think it added to the story?
I noticed that straightaway, even though I'm not a Christian. I think it worked very effectively; it was very moving and I think it added a great deal and emotion to the story.

Considering that Tolkien and C.S. Lewis were friends and would have disscussed their books together hat differences and similarites are their between The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe and Tolkien's work?
I can see mostly differences--for example, Tolkien used no Christian references/scenes in his work at all, whereas Lewis does. Lewis also leaves a lot to the imagination, allowing you to be quite creative in what you think, whereas Tolkien was very precise. They are obviously both fantasy books, but in terms of the plot, they were very different.

Do you think that the film version that is coming out at Christmas is a good idea or not?
I think my signature speaks for itself . I'm really excited about the film coming out, now that I've read the book more recently I'm hoping it will be somewhat close to the book.

Are there any parts of the story you think should be left out or changed in the movie?
Personally, for me, I would leave the very end of the book out--where the children come back through the wardrobe and nothing had happened since they had left. For me, that part seemed quite sad--I would love to see it end with the children's coronation.

Any other comments?
I've not really heard any of the actors/actresses speak in the film yet, but at the moment they seem to be very close to the book. Has anyone else noticed the similarities between the Lord of the Rings and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe movies? They're both filmed in New Zealand, they both have Kiwi directors, and they both have Weta Workshop involved. I think this kind of reflects the friendship between Tolkien and Lewis, like time repeating itself, because Peter Jackson and Andrew Adamson are good friends too.

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I read this book not too long ago. I know I'm not part of the reading group or anything, but I want to comment anyways if that's ok

Did you enjoy reading it?
Yes very much. These are the books I grew up reading and have been a fan of them for as long back as I can remember. I love the whole Narnia series, not just this one. It's such a great little world Lewis created. What I loved about the story as a kid was the human point of view. It was so easy to relate to the world and to imagine yourself being there since it was told from a human point of view with children from our world.

Did you notice the Christian symbolism in this book? (Such as Aslan's death and then ressurection symbolising Jesus') How effective did you find it? Do you think it added to the story?
I had absolutely no idea some people thought of this as a Christian story. I never noticed any symbolism when I was younger reading it, and didn't really notice any reading it now (sure thinking about it, you could see similarities, but if you're going to go that deep, you could do that with any story about good vs. evil I guess, and yeah I have no interest in going there). I didn't know this was perceived as a Christian story until the "Music inspired by" soundtrack came out with all the religious songs and all these Christian Narnia sites popped up everywhere. So yeah, I think the story works magnificently without any Christian symbolism.

Considering that Tolkien and C.S. Lewis were friends and would have disscussed their books together hat differences and similarites are their between The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe and Tolkien's work?
Even though neither of them set out to write a "good vs evil" story, both have those elements and are really the key theme in both of their works, especially with the good conquering evil. Also they both created other worlds and realms. Tolkien's history is of course way more complex and more elaborated than Lewis's, but other than that I think their stories are very different.

Do you think that the film version that is coming out at Christmas is a good idea or not?
Having seen it yeah I think it's great his world is coming to life on the big screen. Although I wish they would have had more money to focus more on the visual effects since it was a bit flawed in that department, and obviously in a movie it's the visual element that's the most important thing. So is it a good idea to film Narnia? Absolutely! Was it good idea to film it now? Probably not.

If you've seen the BBC version what did you think of it?
This is what I grew up watching. I actually became a fan of the series before I read the books. I first saw the series when it had just come out in 1988 and I was instantly captured by the magic of the story. Of course being a young kid back then special effects had absolutely no importance, so I was just in awe of the whole thing. Now of course watching it you kind of laugh at how poor the visual effects are, but despite that this will always be how Narnia visually looks for me. After all the world that BBC created has been in my mind and head for the past 17 years.

Are there any parts of the story you think should be left out or changed in the movie?
I never like changes in films, however of course some are necessary. I don't think things should ever be left out. If they want to add stuff that's ok, but I don't like when they replace one event with another or change an existing one.

Any other comments?
Nope. Only that I highly recommend for people to read the other books of the Narnia series

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I wasn't a member of the group but I have read it.

Did you enjoy reading it?

Yes, though I found there was not enough description like what you find in Tolkien's books. It was very "this happened, then this happened". However, it had a great plotline.

Did you notice the Christian symbolism in this book? (Such as Aslan's death and then ressurection symbolising Jesus') How effective did you find it? Do you think it added to the story?

The first thing that caught my eye was "Daughter of Eve" and "Son of Adam", which is obviously Christian. So then I could pick up on the other symbols in it. I'd rather it didn't have them. As a non-religious reader it didn't add anything, it just made me feel like it wasn't a book for me. Though I'm sure for Christian readers it added a great deal to the story.

Considering that Tolkien and C.S. Lewis were friends and would have disscussed their books together hat differences and similarites are their between The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe and Tolkien's work?

As I said before, Tolkien's work was far more descriptive. I can read it and say that that is a masterpiece. I didn't get that feeling with C.S. Lewis. It was too much like a children's book, and very short. Another thing is concerning Christian symbols. I only know that there are Christian elements in it because Chritians say that there are. I can't pick them out, however.

Do you think that the film version that is coming out at Christmas is a good idea or not?

I loved it. Being not attached to the story, I had no problems with it. Except for that stupid, cheesy ice scene they added

Are there any parts of the story you think should be left out or changed in the movie?

Umm, can't think of anything at the moment. I really don't think anything should be taken out when making a movie from a book.

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{Beri}