Numerous biographies have been written about this great theologian, literary critic, and novelist, but we have found this to be the best.
Sayer describes Lewis’ early years, hinting at childhood evidence of the brilliance and eccentricity that would later become Lewis’ hallmarks. He discusses Lewis’ academic career, his life-transforming conversion to Christianity, and the role of religion in his life. With honesty and compassion, he covers Lewis’ controversial relationship with Mrs. Moore and his passionate marriage to Joy Davidman.
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"I enjoyed this biography greatly. Sayer was a friend of Lewis', and the book contains some insight from that relationship. He showed Lewis as a real man with struggles but also as a literary genius. A closing Afterword written in 1996, I believe, debunked some of what A.N. Wilson has written. This has been my fun read in the midst of doing my doctoral work."
— Ferrell (4 out of 5 stars)
“A cheerful look back on the life of [Sayer’s] cherished friend and mentor…Frederick Davidson…maintains the flow of the work. His presentation of English and Irish dialects is excellent.”
— AudioFile" inspiring and surprising. this book about one of the great geniuses of modern day reads like a novel. I'm about half way through but it's been really good. I have been slightly slacking on my med school stuff because I'm so into it. "
— Dane, 2/10/2014" Sayer knew Lewis well, was a student of his and then became a friend. This gives great insight into all of Lewis' character. "
— Karen, 1/23/2014" While A.N. Wilson is too hard on Lewis, Sayer's portrait is too sympathetic. Lewis' adoring fans will probably enjoy this book, which barely challenges the saintly image that many have of him; more serious readers will probably be disappointed. "
— Andrew, 12/21/2013" An amazing book on the life of CS Lewis. It was well written by a close friend of his and I felt after reading it, that I almost knew him personally. His is a story of courage, commitment, service to others and an amazing intellect. It is also a story of a developing faith, his ups and downs and the way that he worked through life, and faced death. "
— Phyl, 12/18/2013" I have read a lot on Lewis, and yet I learned many new things from this book. I don't think Sayers is the most talented biographical writer, but his close friendship with Lewis still makes this a worthwhile read. "
— Leila, 12/14/2013" Along with Douglas Gresham's Lenten Lands, which isn't actually a Lewis Biography anyway, this is probably the introduction to CS Lewis most beginners should start with. Accurate, thorough, and well written. More detailed review later. "
— RE, 12/13/2013" This is a biography of CS Lewis by his stepson. I haven't found a biography yet about him that I feel like really gives me insight. Because of my love for CS Lewis, I like any nuggets of information I can get. "
— Kristin, 12/10/2013" In my opinion the best bio on Lewis in print. "
— Steve, 11/30/2013" This is the legit Lewis bio. I had to read it for work. Life is so hard... "
— Rachel, 11/26/2013" The best biography of Lewis out there. Many new interesting aspects of his life, and a wonderful treatment of his relationship and subsequent marriage to Joy Gresham. What a fascinating man! "
— Jim, 10/11/2013" If is you have a pretty hard-core interest in CS Lewis it's one of the best biographies to read about him. But it's not an exciting read. "
— Sreju, 8/24/2013" An excellent biography, focusing more on Lewis' literary and academic life than on his spiritual life. "
— Amanda, 8/6/2013" Great insight into the life of Lewis. It was encouraging to me to see some of the darker sides of Lewis, because it helps me to know that God often uses people with real, deep wounds to do amazing work. "
— John, 6/11/2013" A good general biography of Lewis, though perhaps a little obessessed with Lewis' sexual habits. I swear there was a whole chapter on whether or not Lewis and his wife had sex before they got married. "
— Chris, 5/30/2013" I'm reading this because of my interest in C. S. Lewis' based on what I know and have read from his pen. Not the only biography on Lewis, but one that comes recommended. We'll see how it turns out.... "
— Phil, 5/20/2013" This biography of C.S. Lewis appealed to me as a former student of literature and as a Christian. I learned a lot about C.S. Lewis, but above all I was amazed at his humility and kindness when he had such an awesome intelligence. "
— Margaret, 3/8/2013" Simply the best biography I've read. Sorry Bosewell. "
— Matt, 3/2/2013" A wonderful adventure through the live of C. S. Lewis. One gets the feeling that they have lived alongside Lewis. A must read. "
— David, 2/12/2013" Insightful read.. "
— Shido, 2/9/2013" This was an interesting look into the life of C.S.Lewis. Didn't shy from warts, but neither was it a hatchet job. It was readable and informative and I'm glad I read it. "
— Liz, 1/12/2013" Sayer was a pal of Lewis. He offers many insights into Lewis' world. This is a good read ... but, beware, I'm a huge fan of C.S. Lewis and have read a few biographys about him. "
— Randy, 10/5/2012" Best biography on CS Lewis written to date!! Very well done!! "
— Donovan, 9/18/2012George Sayer (1914–2005) headed the English department at Mavern College in Worcestershire until his retirement in 1974. While there, he and Lewis held long literary discussions on their frequent walks through the countryside. Sayer and Lewis maintained a long friendship.
Frederick Davidson (1932–2005), also known as David Case, was one of the most prolific readers in the audiobook industry, recording more than eight hundred audiobooks in his lifetime, including over two hundred for Blackstone Audio. Born in London, he trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and performed for many years in radio plays for the British Broadcasting Company before coming to America in 1976. He received AudioFile’s Golden Voice Award and numerous Earphones Awards and was nominated for a Grammy for his readings.