Once Upon a Wardrobe by Patti Callahan is beautiful historical fiction that answers the question, "Where did Narnia come from?"
It provides glimpses into the early life of C. S. "Jack" Lewis and the origin of The Chronicles of Narnia series through the story of a young boy named George, his loving sister Megs, and one important question. While doing everything possible to fulfill her brother's dying wish, Megs meets people and concepts that will change her life in unimagined ways.
Ms. Callahan developed a strong relationship with the Lewis family while researching and writing her 2018 novel Becoming Mrs. Lewis which outlines the love story of Lewis and his wife Joy Davidson. Once Upon a Wardrobe incorporates first-hand research of Mr. Lewis's life and contains an endorsement by Douglas Gresham, C. S. Lewis's stepson.
The writing is brilliant, a perfect blend of sharing history, creating wonderful characters, and evoking the cold and cozy settings throughout this tender tale. I hugged my Kindle after reading the final words.
I haven't read the Chronicles of Narnia books, a deficit I plan to correct soon, and winter seems the perfect season. I loved this book even without reading the 'source material.' Readers with affection for The Chronicles of Narnia will find it deeply meaningful.
Many thanks to Harper Muse and NetGalley for the review copy and to Ms. Callahan for writing this magical novel.
It provides glimpses into the early life of C. S. "Jack" Lewis and the origin of The Chronicles of Narnia series through the story of a young boy named George, his loving sister Megs, and one important question. While doing everything possible to fulfill her brother's dying wish, Megs meets people and concepts that will change her life in unimagined ways.
Ms. Callahan developed a strong relationship with the Lewis family while researching and writing her 2018 novel Becoming Mrs. Lewis which outlines the love story of Lewis and his wife Joy Davidson. Once Upon a Wardrobe incorporates first-hand research of Mr. Lewis's life and contains an endorsement by Douglas Gresham, C. S. Lewis's stepson.
The writing is brilliant, a perfect blend of sharing history, creating wonderful characters, and evoking the cold and cozy settings throughout this tender tale. I hugged my Kindle after reading the final words.
I haven't read the Chronicles of Narnia books, a deficit I plan to correct soon, and winter seems the perfect season. I loved this book even without reading the 'source material.' Readers with affection for The Chronicles of Narnia will find it deeply meaningful.
Many thanks to Harper Muse and NetGalley for the review copy and to Ms. Callahan for writing this magical novel.
A magical read of a sister's love for her ill younger brother, believing in imagination and fairy tales, and love.
