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The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
- By C. S. Lewis
- Genre: Fantasy
Common Sense Media says
Thrilling, thoughtful Narnian quest.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this high-seas journey into the great unknown is a satisfying fantasy that can be appreciated on its own or as part of the seven-book Chronicles of Narnia series. Originally the third book in the series, it's the fifth book in editions that are ordered along the chronology in the stories. There are perilous moments, including encounters with a sea serpent and a terrifying Island of Dreams, but it all serves the story, and drawn weapons are put away without being used. The Christian theme that runs through the series is very clear here: The adventurers seek the country belonging to Aslan, a Christ-like figure who rules over Narnia in the form of a lion (though he also takes the shape of a lamb here). Aslan tells the children they must learn to know him by another name in their own country. That said, the book can easily be enjoyed as a fantasy without a Christian interpretation.
What's the story?
Edmund and Lucy are visiting their disagreeable cousin Eustace when they find themselves falling into a painting of a great ship: The siblings have returned to the magical country of Narnia, reuniting with Prince Caspian, and Eustace is along for the ride. The children join Caspian and his shipmates on an epic journey into the unknown Eastern Seas. They are seeking seven Narnian lords who had been banished by Caspian’s usurping uncle years ago – and perhaps, even, the land of Aslan, the mystical lion who watches over Narnia. The adventurers encounter enchanted islands, strange merfolk, a fearsome sea serpent, and more, testing their character and their loyalties time and again.
Is it any good?
This fantasy is a classic for good reason. The characters are true and heroic, and their epic adventure sees them escape one danger after another through cleverness, wisdom, sheer bravery, luck, and divine intervention. Even the least appealing characters – the miserable Eustace, later the wearying Dufflepuds – are treated, ultimately, with kindness and affection. C.S. Lewis draws out the good in his characters as they are challenged, and without fail the diverse companions prove their worth and mature further with each stage of the adventure. Throw in strange creatures, curious enchantments, and mysterious, magical islands, and you have an irresistible yarn. Young American readers will find it a bit dated: Originally published in 1952, it’s very British in tone. But kids who are up for the adventure probably will be charmed by those quirks.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about this series. While the Narnia series stands on its own as a fantasy adventure, it also is appreciated as an exploration of Christian themes. How do you see Christian ideas represented here? Do you think Lewis wanted his book to speak specifically to Christians, or do you think he wanted his stories to strike a spiritual chord with readers of other religious faiths?
Do you plan on seeing the movie based on this book? Do you think that movies are ever as good as the books they are based on? If you were going to make this movie, is there anything that you would leave out -- or put in?
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Kid, 12 years old
November 15, 2010
AGE
Trust me
i think it will be awesome! (Movie) I saw the prewviews and trailor it might be a little vilont thats the only thing i am worried about but other than that go for it!
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AGE
Not a better analogy for the young eyes than this!
Years ago, when I read this enchanting read by C.S. Lewis, its religious analogies and likable characters have engrossed my imagination. "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" is a novel I would readily recommend to a young person for its appropriate content, backed by historical, though in fictional setting, details, positive messages, and (parents smiling) good role models. A fascinating voyage from home-sweet-home Narnia across the uncharted seas to Aslan's homeland, this book will hook your young reader, as it has millions before, and promise the parents their child's safety though encountering perilous islands, cunning slave traders, and countless unknown dangers ahead.
There isn't much to look out for in this book, except for occasional, but mild, violence and suspense. This is a "safe tale", as you could say, which honors me to give a 9+. For those searching for proper religious analogies for their child, you've hit the bulls-eye. There is rarely a better series for Christian analogies in the bookstore than this one. Perfect for young children and a perfect occupation for those anxious to see the film-version of this legendary piece of work. Enjoy the read and, eventually or not, the movie!
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AGE
One of the best books in the Narnia series, this book exchanges a direct villain for a seafaring adventure quest to find seven lords that King Caspian's uncle Miraz sent to sea in hope of disposing of. What starts out as a routine quest soon gets interesting when two of the Kings and Queens of old are fished out of the sea and join the adventure. They encounter slave traders, merpeople, dragons, and even a sea monster. A bratty cousin of the Pevensies learns the error of his ways, and as always, Aslan is the shining beacon of the Narnian books.
There are many lessons here, not least of all the religious undertones. I don't really want to spoil the book or the new movie, so I'll just say this: This book is perfectly fine for even the youngest members of your family. I'm going to give a copy to my sister the moment she can read.
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AGE
Wonderful adventure
Sometimes I feel as if the resolution of the various tension points are too quick and thus are not as effective within the book itself as they could be with a little more depth.
But, the Narnia books are always good for discussion jumping off points, and the theme of temptation and dealing with it is a fine one to have with kids aged 7 and older.
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Kid, 12 years old
May 17, 2011
AGE
Great Series to read!
A GREAT SERIES!
read the narnia series and find yourself engulfed in fantasy adventures!
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AGE
A Classic
I read this book, and all 7 Chronicles of Narnia books to my 4 year old, and we both loved it. I had to rephrase some of the writing and explain some words to him, but we both loved the adventure and incredibly good role models and messages. I think these books are almost essential to complimenting a Christian education as well.
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AGE
Great for pre-teens, but teens these days might get bored.
I first read the whole series when I was about 10 years old...and have read them about once every for years, from that point til now. As an adult I still enjoy reading all the books in the series because it takes me back to my younger days. The Dawn Treader was a great adventure for me! I do remember a feeling of uncertainty when thinking of a sea voyage, but mostly because I have a slight fear already of "the deep blue sea". Despite that I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found it to be an incredibly fun fantasy adventure.
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AGE
great book!
I have always loved this book, and I have really enjoyed reading it with my son (in anticipation of the movie being released!). When reading the book we focused on the Christian themes, and also learned about sailing ships.
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| Author: | C. S. Lewis |
| Illustrator: | Pauline Baynes |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Fantasy |
| Publisher: | HarperCollins Children's Books |
| Publication date: | December 31, 1969 |
| Number of pages: | 256 |
| Paperback price: | $7.99 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 8 - 12 |
| Read aloud: | 8 |
| Read alone: | 8 |
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