The Timeless Writings of C. S. Lewis (The Family Christian Library)

This is a fine collection of some of C.S. Lewis' works which have not received the notoriety of others. That is not to say, however, that the works compiled in this volume are in any way less worthy of attention. From this collection the reader can come to appreciate a broader scope of Lewis' interests and motivations, ranging from theology to war and everything between. As such, this collection serves as a terrific frame of reference for Lewis enthusiasts. This collection contains The Pilgrim's Regress, Christian Reflections, and God in the Dock. The Pilgrim's Regress certainly stands out as an unusual addition to a collection otherwise made up of essays, articles, and letters. Nonetheless, The Pilgrim's Regress does nothing to detract from the overall compilation as it provides the reader with an opportunity to look behind the curtain with regard to Lewis' own journey. It should be mentioned that both The Pilgrim's Regress and Surprised by Joy: The Shape of My Early Life, after having read both, add significantly to one's own understanding of either work, as well as Lewis' early life. Both Christian Reflections and God in the Dock are themselves collections of shorter works; predominately essays, articles, and letters written by Lewis over the course of his life. Throughout both of these smaller collections one is presented with the situations that presented reoccurring topics and issues which seem to have been the motivation and, in some cases, the starting block for some of Lewis' better known apologetics. Some may even feel as if these shorter essays and articles reflect Lewis' unbridled opinions, as opposed to those which may have been diluted to one degree or the next in the interest of public consumption. That is, both of these collections offer unrestrained truths which one could easily miss if one's reading remained dedicated to this author's better know works alone. This collection is worth purchasing simply because of the wealth of knowledge contained within it. Beyond this, this collection also presents an opportunity to purchase three of Lewis' works (which could be purchased separately) at a very reasonable price. Considering aspects of content and value (monetary and otherwise), this book is a must buy.