Book review: Harry Lee Poe, The Making of C. S. Lewis (1918-1945): From Atheist to Apologist. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2021.

Book review: Harry Lee Poe, The Making of C. S. Lewis (1918-1945): From Atheist to Apologist. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2021.

 

[Note: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for reviewing it on my website.]

 

  Having read fairly extensive biographies of Lewis (I especially enjoyed those of Leland Ryken & Alister McGrath), I wondered what this middle volume of a trilogy would reveal. Due to his mining of Lewis’ extensive correspondence and diaries, academic Harry Lee Poe presents a fascinating account of the pivotal years that encompass Jack’s life experience between the ends of the respective World Wars. As the title indicates, it was during this time that Lewis moved from atheism to theism – and eventually – to Christianity. The influences and philosophical background that led to his conversion are systematically examined with careful analysis of his university studies in philosophy and literature. He gained a rare “triple first” Oxford degree, which paved the way for his academic career and eventual work as a writer of fantasy, science fiction, satire, and apologetics.

  Poe does a good job of conjuring up the culture of early twentieth century Oxford, as well as the twists and turns of Lewis’ friendships and developing worldview. He brings the man to life, and leaves the reader with a better three dimensional picture of C. S. Lewis the man. Reading this book was so enjoyable that I purchased the first volume and also appreciated it. I am looking forward to the release of the third volume, and commend these books to anyone who is interested in C. S. Lewis, or apologetics and skepticism in general.