The Golden Key

I found this book while I was reading my way through the library's fairy tale shelf. I didn't understand any of the symbolism at the time, but I still liked it. I don't understand all of it even now, but the more I read (especially of C.S. Lewis, who admired MacDonald's work), the more interesting the book becomes. I like the way the shadow-lands idea seen here gets more fleshed out in C.S. Lewis' Narnia book The Last Battle, and both are probably derived from the cave allegory in Plato. Some people will probably be turned off by the allegorical aspect. I think of it as an interesting little puzzle.

A perfect fairy tale, lovely and deeply moving, containing more within its few short pages than most novels could ever hope to achieve. While sensitive children will certainly enjoy it, I think adult readers will discover far more - rich in symbolism, which never overwhelms the narrative, and conveying an atmosphere of unearthly peace, "The Golden Key" acquires a patina of subtle beauty and meaning with each new reading. Highly recommended!

There aren't many fairy tales that catch my fancy, but "The Golden Key" is pure ambrosia for the mind. It's a complete tale with adventure, tragedy, imagination, and above all; morals! The illustrations by Sendak are a perfect compliment to MacDonald's story. My children were captivated by this book as much as I. This story is just as enriching as the Narnia stories by C.S. lewis. I wish there were more stories such as this, rather than those Goosebump or Harry Potter books disguised as good reading.

"The Golden Key" is a wonderful tale, written with great skill. I have to admit that I have not seen this version, but illustrations by Sendak should be excellent (in fact, perhaps enough to tempt me into purchasing a 2nd copy!). I would like to point out that C.S. Lewis considered George MacDonald to be one of his greatest inspirations, and if you enjoy his works (Chronicles of Narnia, Screwtape Letters, etc.) you should truly enjoy this.

It is a pity that George MacDonald is usually thought of as a writer of children's stories. The Golden Key is a fairy tale but there are few children indeed who will truly appreciate the symbolism and mystery of scenes like the journey through the valley of shadows. This one has me thinking and wondering for weeks after each time I read it.