The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis was our teen book club read for December. This was a re-read for me. It might be my second favorite C. S. Lewis book after Til We Have Faces. What was really great about this book club selection is that S. read the book in three days. This is amazing for him as he doesn't enjoy fiction and reads very slowly, so he does most of his 'reading' via audio books. But this time he really read it and enjoyed it very much.
The book is a thought provoking fantasy. The main character (I don't think we ever know his name - it is probably Lewis himself.) finds himself wandering in a strange town and then waiting in a queue for a bus. It's all very dreamlike. The story is all about the people he encounters; slowly you realize that they all must be dead and this is happening in the after life. As the narrator wanders through this strange world, he encounters George MacDonald, who serves as his Vergil, to explain and guide him.
Lots of exploration of sin, human nature, the nature of good and evil. The characterizations of the people he meets are almost satirical and reminded me a bit of Jane Austen in her depiction of nasty, petty people.
The kids had a great discussion about based on this study guide. They were in turns hysterically funny and at other times very insightful during the discussion. Unlike Lord of the World, which was really over the kids' heads, this one was a perfect teen book club pick.
This book is a short novel written in Lewis' inimitable style, packed with theological insight. Two thumbs up!
For more book reviews go to Read 52 Books in 52 Weeks.
I must read this! I have read many C.S. Lewis books over the last few years, but I have to do this one soon! Thanks for the heads up!
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