Great book and great reading. Great story that lets kids get absorbed into a fantasy world that is built around them in classic language and artistry that is CS Lewis. The CommonSense reviewer feels that he needs to tell parents that this is "Dated" and "Simple"? PLEASE! Why not warn parents about books that have vivid descriptions of violent acts against children, infanticide, and other inappropriate content for these ages? Many newer, "award winning" books that get raves are "current" and are trash and are no where near appropriate for the ages these reviewers say.
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The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
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Is it age appropriate?
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Not age appropriate for kids under 6, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Classic Narnia chronicle has Christian themes.
updated 07.04.08
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 8 and Up
The good stuff
What to watch out for
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Violence :
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What Parents Need to Know
About The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
Parents need to know that the plot and writing, although superior, are somewhat dated, and the art is small and simplistic. The language is simple but precise, and the main characters act valiantly to help save Narnia from the White Witch's enchantment (though one is initially caught under her sway). The story also contains bits of British culture, vivid descriptions of violent combat and is heavy on Christian allegory.
Read our full review by Mark Nichol
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about the messages Lewis' books send about the nature of good and evil. Why do you think Edmund chooses to betray his brother and sisters by running off to join the White Witch? Why can't Lucy get back into Narnia through the wardrobe any time she wants to? And why is there a lamppost in the Narnian forest (hint: try reading the first book in the Narnia chronicles, The Magician's Nephew, for some interesting background). If parents and children are familiar with Christianity, they can also discuss how the book's plot and characters are like various stories and people found in the Bible. For example, how is Aslan like Jesus Christ?
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Most Recent Reviews
I rate this title on for age 10 and give itAnother reason to question the ConnonSense reviewers
- I rate this title iffy for age 6 and give it
- I rate this title iffy for age 5 and give it
- Lives in MichiganI rate this title on for age 2 and give it
A MUST READ FOR ALL AGES
I love this book so much i have read it like 7 times. If your into fantasy you will love this book. even if you hate fantasy you will love this book
Lives inI rate this title on for age 2 and give ittransparent, but lovable
yeah, it's totally obvious that aslan is jesus. not subtle and all. but despite that (and i'm not even christian!) i still loved this book. my whole family got really into it one summer, so warning: get into it as much as you like, but no matter how good the author makes turkish delight sound, do yourself a favor and don't go out and try it. it is so, so gross.
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