Douglas Gresham was just a misplaced boy when his mom, Joy Davidman, moved with her sons from America to England where they befriended legendary author C.S. Lewis. In time, Davidman and Lewis married, and "Jack," as the writer was known, helped to provide his new stepsons with fatherly care, love and wisdom. Indeed, Douglas Gresham is uniquely qualifed to write the duly tender biography of Lewis that is Jack's Life. Like the child that he was when they first met, Douglas recounts with wide eyes and open heart the man who endured his own childhood dramas. And on a personal level, Gresham illuminates the everyday charms of a literary icon who was far more than the genius behind The Chronicles of Narnia, and Mere Christianity.
Average Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars(3.5 out of 5 stars)
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2.5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Deborah Parish (Sisson Ridge, Nb,), August 01, 2009
This would be a great book for children who have an interest in Lewis' life; it is simply written, as though from the perspective of a child.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Susan Simon (Albion, IN), June 05, 2009
Whenever I think I have to much distraction to write I shall remember this book. "Jack" was overworked, underfed and constantly interrupted as he managed to write wonderful, profound books. This is an endearing and unique look at Lewis from someone who actually lived with him, his stepson. I have even more respect for the honorable Mr. Lewis after reading about his life. A must read for any Lewis reader.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Libby Caudle (Glade Valley, NC), March 18, 2009
This is a wonderful little book. Which I enjoyed very much, since I love to read about C.S Lewis. It gave insight into the real person.
2 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by David Gough (Alexandria, VA), February 06, 2009
Of all the accounts of C.S. Lewis' life, this one is the most personal, yet least informative. One might have hoped for a more in-depth glimpse into Lewis' latter days from his stepson, but the reader is left disappointed. The book is not nearly as well researched as other biographies, and several times Gresham inserts his own personal opinions rather than sticking with his principle subject. There are also a number of typos in the book, with the failure to insert spaces between words being the most noticeable. The accompanying DVD (an interview with Gresham) is also less than what one might hope for. The book is a quick read, but it leaves the student of Lewis' life a bit dry. Two stars may be generous.
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