C.S. Lewis (1898–1963) taught English literature at Oxford and later Cambridge. He was not raised a committed believer and spent years as an atheist before coming to faith in his early thirties. That journey — from doubt to faith — shapes much of his writing, and it is one reason his books still speak to sceptics, students and lifelong Christians alike.
Lewis wrote in many styles: reasoned arguments for faith, imaginative fiction, children’s fantasy, essays, letters and personal reflections. Here is a guide to his most-read books and where you might begin.
If you want clear thinking about faith: Mere Christianity
Mere Christianity grew out of radio talks Lewis gave during the Second World War. It explains the core beliefs that Christians of many traditions share: why there is a moral law, who Jesus is, and what it means to live as a Christian. Lewis writes plainly, with memorable illustrations, and avoids denominational arguments.
Best for: thoughtful readers, students, new believers and friends who are asking questions about Christianity. For most adults, this is the best place to start.
If you enjoy satire and sharp insight: The Screwtape Letters
This short book is written as a series of letters from a senior devil, Screwtape, to his nephew, advising him on how to lead a human away from God. Because everything is upside-down, the book shines a bright light on pride, distraction, prayer and everyday temptation.
Best for: readers who like wit and want a fresh look at their own spiritual life. Read slowly — each letter rewards reflection.
If you love stories: The Chronicles of Narnia
The seven Narnia books, beginning with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, are among the best-loved children’s books ever written. Children enjoy them as adventure stories; adults notice the deep themes of sacrifice, forgiveness, courage and redemption woven through them.
Best for: families reading aloud, children aged about 8 and up, and adults who want to rediscover the joy of story. There is a long-running debate about reading order; many readers start with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, the first one published.
If you are facing suffering: The Problem of Pain and A Grief Observed
The Problem of Pain is Lewis’s reasoned attempt to answer why a good God allows suffering. Years later, after the death of his wife, he wrote A Grief Observed — a raw, honest journal of loss and doubt that slowly finds its way back to faith. The two books make a striking pair: one written from the head, one from the heart.
Best for: anyone walking through grief or helping others who are.
If you want his story: Surprised by Joy
Surprised by Joy is Lewis’s account of his early life and his path to faith. It is more literary than his popular books, but readers who have enjoyed Mere Christianity often find it fascinating to see the man behind the arguments.
If you want imaginative depth: The Great Divorce and the Space Trilogy
The Great Divorce imagines a bus trip from the grey edges of hell to the outskirts of heaven, where each passenger is offered a choice. It is short, vivid and thought-provoking. The Space Trilogy (Out of the Silent Planet, Perelandra and That Hideous Strength) is science fiction with deep spiritual themes, for readers who enjoy longer novels.
A suggested reading path
- Mere Christianity — the foundation.
- The Screwtape Letters — practical spiritual insight.
- The Great Divorce — imagination and choice.
- The Problem of Pain or A Grief Observed — when you need them.
- Surprised by Joy — Lewis’s own story.
And read The Chronicles of Narnia at any time, with or without children!
Buying tips
Many Lewis titles are available in single volumes and in collected editions that combine several books at a lower price. Because his books have been in print for decades, used and pre-owned copies are easy to find and good value.
See our C.S. Lewis collection and English Christian books.