Jack's Life: A Memory of C.S Lewis [With Exclusive Author Interview DVD]

Reviewed by Beverly Pechin for Reader Views (8/06) "Jack's Life" is truly an inside look at the life and times of famous author, C. S. Lewis from a perspective nobody else could give you but his own step-son, Douglas. First glance at the book and it's elegant cover tells you immediately that not only was there a lot of thought and care put into the making of this book, but no scrimping on presenting the reader with a wonderful personal view of Lewis' life was ever even an option. An exquisite hard cover book with a detailed embossed cover to protect this cherished book is only the beginning of the author's way of expressing the care taken. At a mere list price of under $20 the elegant hard cover book not only offers some great reading material, but a bonus DVD that adds yet another touch of class to the experience. Even the most well read of biography lovers has not been given a chance like this to see the inside life of the world renowned C.S. Lewis. Focusing not as much on his writings and his thoughts as a writer, but more on his every day life and hardships that helped to create the man he was. A wonderful look at what later became known as the true "home" of Lewis; Douglas fondly remembers the stories told by so many others regarding the beginning of the love/hate relationship Lewis came to have with his beautiful Estate. With so much work needing to be done, Lewis was remembered not only as an extremely hard worker, but a determined man with so much character that he took on the extended family of a friend who died at war while serving with Lewis. Submitting to a life of poverty at times, simply to take care of them all! This alone shows the intense character of the beloved author and, after reading the life Lewis accepted as his own to simply fulfill the obligation of a pact he shared with his close friend, brings one to realize that this is a man of integrity. The author shares everything from the relationships Lewis had with the "inherited" family, the mother and sister of a friend and fellow soldier in war, to the often shaky relationship he had with his own father; the touching love and relationship he shared with his brother, Warnie; and later the loving and tender relationship he shared with Douglas himself. Touching ever so briefly on the friends and acquaintances with whom he also shared numerous conversations and intricate details of the books he wrote, the author shows the inside influences of other famous authors, such as J.R. Tolkien, and some not-so-famous people that met together in a group weekly for intellectual discussions. This small group of intellectual geniuses and intimate friends became known as "The Inklings" and provided Lewis with many intense conversations and criticisms that influenced nearly all of his writings. "Jack's Life" is simply one of the best biographies I've read in ages and shares intimate details and touching antics of Lewis' life that no other author could share accurately. Seeing

As others have said, the author is the step-son of C.S. Lewis. He also seems to be an interesting man in is own right, and the combination of his unique position vis-a-vis Lewis and his own character has led to an unusual biography. Before saying what it is, let me describe what it is not. It is not a lengthy, exhaustive , scholarly study. It is not a literary biography. However, what it is, is unique. Mr. Gresham has written an intimate telling of the life of C.S. Lewis, with plenty of personal insights and plenty of events where he was actually present. It seems to be written with younger readers in mind, and there are many asides that give readers a sense of what the author feels about important issues ( in this respect it is actually reminiscent of the Narnia tales where Lewis wittily interjects an opinion or two). So, in telling us about C.S. Lewis, Mr. Gresham also instills in the reader his own view of important issues, as they relate to points in the life of Lewis. The Narnia movie will soon be released and, I expect, will be quite successful. I hope that readers, particularly younger ones, will turn to this book to learn about Lewis after they experience the movie. Two final thoughts: For those wanting more of a traditional biography, my absolute favorite is " Jack: A Life of C.S. Lewis" , written by Lewis's friend, George Sayer, who, alas, just recently passed away. For those wanting an in-depth look at all of Lewis's work, there is the magisterial "C.S. Lewis : A Complete Guide to His Life & Works" by long time Lewis scholar Walter Hooper.

Douglas Greshman, author of this outstanding book, is the step-son of the late great author, C.S. Lewis "Jack's Life," an intimate, tender writing on the life of C.S.Lewis. In my opinion, he is the one man that certainly has the qualifications to write a book such as this, having shared in this man's personal life for twelve years. I was entranced as Mr. Greshman released the true essence of the heart of a great man in his writing; revealing to us intimate moments, victories and defeats, tears and laughter of a great Christian whose life and works have touched millions. He shares stories of C.S. Lewis's early life and travels to his death, giving the reader deep insight into a man that has made his mark in history. I particularly loved the DVD that is included with this book. On this DVD we are privileged to hear an interview with Mr.Greshman who shares in a wonderful tender way his life with his famous step-father. You could feel his love, respect and even his sadness at the loss of such a great man. All in all this is a wonderful read and one that every serious C.S.Lewis fan does not want to miss. Thank you Mr. Greshman for opening your heart and sharing the precious memories of one exceptional man that were safely tucked deep inside. We, the readers, will certainly be enriched by sharing them with you. Highest Recommendation. Shirley Johnson Senior Reviewer MidWest Book Review

Douglas Greshem's latest book, Jack's Life, is a biography of his step-father C.S. Lewis. I have not read any other biographies of Lewis, but enjoyed the simple telling of his life. From Lewis' early childhood in Northern Ireland, to his service in WWI to his life at Oxford, Greshem shares stories of honour, duty, and perseverence. The book is a quick read and would be suitable for children and adults looking to learn more about a beloved author. It is obvious how much Jack meant to Douglas Greshem and the book is a tribute to Jack's life and prolific body of work.