Insanity Runs in My Family...It Practically Gallops!

Monday, May 18, 2009 - What Does the Bible Say About That?

Welcome to another edition of Crossway Book Blog Reviews! I hope you will enjoy reading about this edition's book called What Does the Bible Say About That?. As always, I encourage you to check out the Crossway Blog at http://www.crossway.org/blog/. Thanks!

What Does the Bible Say About That?

Carolyn Larsen, the author of this book, took on a monumental task when she began the writing of the book. The book, geared for 8-12 year olds, is a collection of short writings on several topics, explaining exactly what a Biblical perspective of these topics are. As you can imagine, the topics that are discussed are numerous--from topics such as sin, death, and hell that we all struggle with, and topics that are particularly of interest to the younger set--such as movies, siblings, homework, and classmates.

Ms. Larsen does a wonderful job of explaining each of these topics. She presents a scripture that is related to the topic, then explains in her own words the Biblical position on the said issue. Finally, each entry is concluded by giving the issue some practicability--showing the child how he learn an applicable lesson on how to deal with the issue.

This book is a great reference for children, and parents will welcome it as a great devotional starter. One note--because this book is geared towards 8-12 year olds, there are some topics that may not be as appropriate for the younger ones. But parents can use discernment in employing this book with their own children, and are sure to find many Biblical lessons covered between the covers of this dynamic little book.

While I don't have children yet, I can imagine that this is exactly the sort of thing I would love to use with my own kids one day. It is easy to use, practical, clear, concise, and most importantly, Biblical. I encourage parents of older elementary children to check this book out as a viable way of giving their children a spiritual head start in life.

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Tuesday, May 12, 2009 - April Book Reviews

A Tale of Two Cities

I've been meaning to get back into Dickens, and getting a free copy of this book motivated me! I was delighted to find this to be one of the best Dickens I have read--probably even replacing David Copperfield as my favorite Dickens novel.

Set in the cities of London and Paris during the French Revolution, this is a war story that is very different than some of Dicken's other novels. It is full of action and suspense. During the way, a young French aristocrat, Charles, flees to England, where he falls in love with and marries Lucie. Lucie is loved by another man, though, an alcoholic, cynical pessimist, Sydney.

When Charles returns to France for a short time he is arrested. Will he face the guillotine, or can something save him from the chaos in France? The startling ending leaves the reader to think about the themes down to the very famous last words, "It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest that I go to, than I have ever known."

April Morning

This short novel details the fateful day of April 18, 1775, through the eyes of a fifteen year old boy. History fans with recognize that date as the Battle of Lexington and Concord.

Adam Cooper and his young brother Levi, live with their parents and grandmother on a small farm near Lexington. He is fascinated by the threat of war--and is determined to prove himself a man to his father.

His chance comes sooner than he thinks as the British invade the town. The young boys watches his friends die in the battle, and tries to prove himself. In the end, Adam has to grow up in many ways during this day long period, as his life dramatically changes in just a few hours.

Somewhat reminiscent of Johnny Tremain (although for an older crowd and more psychological in nature), this is a great look at colonial America and the life of an average child during the beginning of the war.

Faust: Part Two

I read Faust One in literature last semester and have been meaning to pick up the second part for a while now. A little background--Faust Part I basically tells the story of a man who sells his soul to the devil, and reaps the consequences of that. Faust II continues his story, but it is not even close to Faust I in terms of storytelling.

From a poetic perspective, Faust II is fascinating. Goethe switches from different styles of poetry all throughout the poem. He brings in characters from mythology and history, and weaves a complex poem. However, it flits from here to there so much, that it often ends up confusing in a sort of psychedelic sort of way.

Whereas I'd recommend Faust I, II isn't worth it unless you really want to know the end of the story or explore the poetry. It is beautiful as poetry, but it lacks the drama and spiritual enlightenment of Faust I.

The Turn of the Screw

This is a frightening, harrowing short novel by Henry James. Some even say it is his best. Most would classify it as a "ghost story" but it is more complex--and frankly, just plain more than your typical ghost story.

A young governess is given the job of caring for two children. These children seem like the ideal charges--sweet, cute, and well behaved. But there is a mystery behind these two children--and there is a mystery involving the former governess and a male hand at the house. Both died under strange circumstances--but both suddenly make "appearances" to the new governess. Furthermore, she is convinced that they have possessed the children in her charge!

Are these phantoms really ghosts? Or is it all in the head of the main character? There are many interpretations of this famous story--and the reader will have fun trying to decipher them until the very end! A very complex, but wonderfully written story.

The Aspern Papers

A literary historian functions as the narrator in this novella as he travels abroad to seek information on a dead poet he is researching. While Jeffery Aspern's poetry was well loved and known, his personal life was kept hidden. Not even a picture of him existed. Our protagonist is determined to find something regarding this poet--anything that would propel his own self into literary fame. Thus, he is thrilled when he finds the home of an old lady and her niece--the older lady having supposedly been at one time involved with the dead poet.

The narrator presents himself to the niece as a suitor, but in reality wants to find out more about Aspern. He knows the lady owns letters, documents, and even a picture of the poet, and it is his goal to find this--while remaining undercover.

Of course, things never go the way you plan, and that gives the reader a unexpected ending!

It is interesting to note that the tale of the old lady and her friend the poet is based partially on letters written by Shelley and Byron. This is alluded to several times in the text if you pay close attention!

This is really quite a charming tale. It is simple, yet striking. Any lover of literature, poetry, or romance will delight in it!

A Preface to Paradise Lost: Being the Ballard Matthews Lectures Delivered at University College, North Wales, 1941

This is considered one of the most well known of C.S. Lewis' scholarly works. As the the title suggests, the book actually started as a series of lectures Lewis gave in the forties, and later he converted it to written form.

John Milton's Paradise Lost is probably one of the most debated of all literary works. Everyone has something to say about it. Take a Norton Critical Edition of the book and you will find in the back an incredibly extensive list of essays written by modern critics such as Lewis, T.S. Eliot, and Northrop Frye, and ones by classic literature authors themselves, like Coleridge, Shelley, Byron, and Johnson.

Thus you knew C.S. Lewis, one of the greatest literary minds of the 20th century, would have something to say about it. In fact, Lewis' book turned into a very well respected critique on Paradise Lost--and marked Lewis as the top Milton scholar forever.

The Awakening

The Awakening is a short novel about Edna Pontellier and her family and friends. The young woman is married to a rich, but rather boring husband, and describes her children, though she loves them, as equally boring.

This book is considered a precursor the feminist movement, giving literature a new look at women and their desires. While noteworthy in that respect, and unconventional--it was very controversial when published--unfortunately, it does not leave the reader any better off. It is a classic, in that it had influence on the surrounding world, but as a novella, it falls short it providing a sufficiently interesting story.

Spirits in Bondage: A Cycle of Lyrics

This poem is Lewis' first published work. He was just twenty years old, and had recently returned from the battlefields of France, wounded. His famous tutor, William Kirkpatrick, encouraged him to publish the poems, and while they were not as well received as Lewis would have liked, gave a great glimpse into the mind of the young author.

Of course, this was a few years before Lewis' conversion. Thus, the poems provide a slight contrast to the worldview of his later years. Yet the writing is most definitely his--rich in mythology and romance. This is an excellent look at post war, pre Christian C.S. Lewis.

Paradise Lost

Isn't it shameful I waited until I was eighteen years old before I read this book? The epic poem is probably the greatest ever written, and has stood the test of time since first published in 1667.

Most of you probably know the basics of this story--a retelling of Genesis in blank verse. I knew that before I was going into it. Yet I had no idea how fascinating this story would prove to be. It isn't just a retelling of Adam and Eve, and the fall, and how it affected human history. It is written as an epic romance, but it also functions as a commentary.

Every Christian should read this book. Everyone should read this book for the literary merits, but Christians should be particular interested in this poem. It is not Scripture, of course, but it gives you an idea on the emotions, events, and experience of Adam and Eve, as well as turning Satan into an incredibly powerful literary figure. We can't take it as truth, but it is like a biblical commentary--if you know the true story, you can decipher what is truth, and what is opinion. Truth is what matters, but sometimes opinion can help us understand a lot more.

Doctor Zhivago

This famous piece of Russian literature is set during the Russian Revolution of 1917, and the Russian Revolution.

Yuri Zhivago is a poet and doctor. His idealism is a stark contras to the war surrounding him, but eventually even the young peace loving doctor is caught up in the war. It breaks apart his family, and life, including that of his love, Lara.

While this is a very famous book (and movie), I found it hard to move through. I generally enjoy Russian literature, but later into the 20th century Russian literature does not impress me as much. While it wasn't a complete waste of time, I don't believe I'm any wiser for having read this book. It had ups and downs.

Inkheart

I'm so cool. I read another contemporary children's book! And even more shocking, I enjoyed it!

Twelve year old Meggie, and her dad Mo, live by themselves after the death of her mother. One night, though, a strange figure comes to talk with Mo. Meggie is intrigued, especially when her father and the stranger, called Dustfinger, whisk her off to her Aunt Elinor's. The eccentric older woman is a rare book collector, and has an immense library. Meggie and her father both are avid readers--but Meggie does not know that her father has a secret about his reading.

Turns out, Mo is not a typical reader. When he reads aloud, he transports the characters, events, and objects from the book, into our world. Meggie is shocked at this revelation, and even more so to find out that Dustfinger is a character from a book that Mo had "read out" years ago. Dustfinger isn't the only one, though. The evil Capricorn and his men were also read out, and want back in their book.

Mo believes this would be too dangerous, so Capricorn and his men resort to desperate measures. They will do anything to be read back into their story...anything!

Madame Bovary

Flaubert's masterpiece is a compelling tale. It is easy to see why it is a classic.

Emma Bovary is a young, vibrant woman who falls into a marriage with a steady and loyal doctor, Charles. While she at first is delighted with Charles, she finds his plain, provincial life boring, thinking he lacked the ambition to rise to the top. She falls into a number of affairs and they eventually lead to her downfall.

Interestingly, it is Charles who turns out the hero. He is steadfastly loyal, loving, and generous to his wife, despite her very numerous shortcomings and failure to support him and their child.

While no Anna Karenina, this is an insightful book about adultery, remorse, forgiveness, and mercy.

Ella Enchanted

Another modern children's book on my shelf for this month. Surprising, eh?

I caved in and saw this movie before I ever read the book. That may have given be a bit of a different perspective of the book. I can say I do think I liked the movie a bit better. I did enjoy the book immensely though.

Ella is a young girl who lives in a fictional world. Her fairy godmother gave her a gift upon her birth--the gift of always being obedient. Of course, this turns out to be a curse as well. Upon Ella's mother's death, her father remarries, and her new stepsister's learn about her secret "gift". They learn to use it to their advantage.

Can Ella break free from this "gift"? Will the kind prince, Char, be able to help her? It is a charming story and lots of fun!

Who Killed Kit Marlowe?: A Contract to Murder in Elizabethan England

I think I first became interested in Christopher (or "Kit') Marlowe in British literature class when my lit class described Marlowe as "one of the most violent figures" of British literature. I don't know why that interested me, but it did, and I've been reading about the author on and off since.

While nothing in this book can be proved, the author lays the foundation of how he believed Marlowe lived and died. We know a lot about Marlowe, but his death is a mystery. He was only 29 when he died in 1593, apparently in a tavern brawl in Depford.

There are many variations of the story of his death, though. Basically, though, there are two categories--some say his death was real, some that it was fake. We do know, besides being a poet, Marlowe was a spy for the government. Thus, his death could have been more than just a tavern brawl--it could have been a deliberate attempt to take Marlowe the spy out. Secondly, if his death was fake, he could have faked it himself (there is some mystery and suspicion involving whether or not a body was ever present) to avoid being taken out by his enemies. (Some who believe in this theory also believe that Marlowe faked his death, then went on to write many more plays under a different name--the name of William Shakespeare. This is actually a somewhat plausible theory...but I'll save it for later!)

The author of this book tries to prove the first case, which is indeed the most likely. Marlowe was taken out because he was a spy. The drunken tavern brawl was a coverup.

This is very much a fascinating subject to research. Unless you are interested, I don't know if I'd say read this book, but if you happen to be like me and want to know who killed Marlowe and why he died, this is a great scholarly work to start with, that reads much like a mystery novel.

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Tuesday, May 5, 2009 - O Shenandoah...

I'm back.

You probably didn't notice I was gone. But I was, spending the weekend in Luray Virginia. That's Luray as in Loo Ray, not Luh Ray. ;)

We've had a million different events going on this spring/summer in our family. Big birthdays (which reminds me, go to http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/lilacs to wish my mom a happy belated 50th! It was on the 21st, which is also my 3 year blog anniversary), graduations, etc...so we decided rather than getting the whole family together for parties every week (almost), we'd just turn it into one big event.

So said event took place in the mountains of Virginia.

I like Virginia a lot. My mom used to have this

on our refrigerator for years, and I especially like the part about one's mother side, since, I guess that means I'm a Virginian as my mom is from there. Her family lives there. I suspect I'll eventually settle in Virginia. I'll be living there during the school year anyhow, starting this August, as I'm going to be attending Patrick Henry College.

I tend to like the valley land in VA. I like the mountains fine. But I'd rather live on a farm than in the forest.

We did stay up in the forest, though, in a pretty little cabin. We didn't do much staying inside of it, though...

Of course, with our family, a trip isn't anything without food. My sister is my new hero after she made us breakfast.

We visited Luray Caverns...isn't it ironic we go up the mountains so we can go underground?

(by the way, that's a lake on the bottom with the reflection...)

My cake was a mess.

And that is a very brief glimpse into our weekend. :-)

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Monday, April 20, 2009 - I'm glad I don't believe in zombies...or do I?

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Tuesday, April 7, 2009 - March Book Reviews

Allegory of Love: A Study in Medieval Tradition

This is one of Lewis' most well-loved and often read literary works. Lewis was professor of Medieval and Renaissance Literature, and this book reflects his extensive knowledge on the subject of not just medieval literature, but medieval thought as well.

This book specifies particularly the medieval idea of love. This is such an important topic and theme in medieval literature. However, the medieval idea of love is very different from the postmodern, western idea of love. Lewis introduces us to this foreign idea of love and how it affects our interpretation of medieval literature. This is a must read for interested readers of medieval literature!

Miracles

Miracles? We read about them in the Bible and sometimes we even see them in our own lives. But what are they? Are they really miracles we see, or is there some other explanation for it? Can miracles actually exist?

Lewis shows that miracles are not just plausible, but they are practical. He answers all these questions and more in his little book. We learn what a miracle is, as well as how to respond to them and the different reactions of other religions to miracles.

But most importantly, Lewis shows that miracles CAN happen. This is the best defense for miracles that there is--showing that miracles can happen, and just because they defy the laws of nature, doesn't mean they defy the laws of God.

Fathers and Sons

Considered Turgenev's finest work, this book was written during a period of upheaval in Russia which is directly reflected in the work itself. The growing division between generations of Russians is illustrated between two young men, and their relationship with their families.

Bazarov is a young man studying to be a doctor. He is a nihilist and clashes with his more traditional parents. He plays the role of mentor to young Arkady, who follows him blindly while trying to figure out his own family.

The book is a great side by side comparison of these conflicting generations as Russia was splitting politically, socially, and spiritually.

How to Read Literature Like a Professor: A Lively and Entertaining Guide to Reading Between the Lines

I flipped through this book at Barnes and Noble a LONG time ago and knew I wanted to read it. I'm glad I finally got a chance to read the whole thing.

The author of this book does a great job of explaining symbolism and allusions in literature. He shows how it is necessary to look at everything--weather, biblical allusions, mythology, Shakespearean allusions, sickness--and find out exactly what it all means, rather than just "get the big picture" of a story.

Now, of course, that is an extremely important part of literature. But I have two reasons that this book isn't as helpful as it sounds.

1. When you are reading literature, you can enjoy the symbol isms. They make the work that much better and give you a good understanding of characters and events. However, I don't believe that is because every little thing was intended by the author of that piece. Mr. Foster, in this book seems to conclude that authors put everything in on purpose. He believes that if the book says, "it was raining outside" that the author consciously thought of that for an important reason. Now, yes, that could be the case sometimes. Rain could be important to the plot. HOWEVER, I don't hold to this in all cases. I know, because I write. What Mr. Foster failed to point out is this--in ancient literature, you may find little details to be more important. In more modern literature, however, we have entered into a state of realism, in which we add these details not because they are important because they are part of everyday life. We don't really think about it when we write "it was raining outside."

So while symbolism is great, I disagree that ALL authors ALWAYS have particular reason in mind for each detail. Enjoy the symbolism, but please don't let that make you think everything you read is the author's intent.

2. Secondly, this book tells us about these ways to read literature like a professor. Unfortunately, you don't just read this book and know it all. At least for me, I *knew* almost all these topics before. It is just applying them that is hard. People don't need to read a book on how to read, they need to read that way. So that makes this book not as helpful as it sounds.

Nevertheless, it IS an interesting book. I would probably recommend it to someone who wants to start reading more, rather than someone who already has for years. For me, it wasn't anything really that new, but I'm sure it could be helpful for some. I still enjoyed it, and it confirmed what I already believe, so it wasn't a waste of time, but don't expect your reading to be dramatically changed by this book.

Notes From Underground

Notes from Underground is one of Dostoevsky's shorter and earlier works. The work is literally "notes" from a man, divided into two parts--the first more of an analysis of the man, and the second the actual story and action of the man.

This "Underground Man", as he is called, plays the existentialist part as his actions and circumstances propel him to further a sort of "extra consciousness." This book inspired many existentialist writings, but also caused controversy as it rejected socialism.

The book is much better than it sounds, though. It lives on, in many people's opinions, including mine, not as an existentialist work but as a amazing character sketch of a seemingly ordinary man.

The Misanthrope

Moliere is one of the wittiest writers ever. In this play, a comedy of manners, he satirizes the high class French and also the human nature.

This play is one of his best known today. However, the tone of the play is very different from his other works. This focuses less on plot and more on characters. Thus, some readers may not find it very interesting.

The play does a remarkable job creating fascinating and humorous characters--all in Moliere's astoundingly witty language.

The Personal Heresy: A Controversy

This book makes up several articles and letters written between C.S. Lewis and E.M.W. Tillyard, a British literature scholar, in the thirties. The articles were collected into book form because both authors thought that readers would be able to glean something useful from the philosophies presented in them.

Both men argue on the best way to read poetry. They both make great arguments, and sometimes agree. However, their most important points conflict. Tillyard argues that poetry is above the common man, and that poetry is a direct reflection of the author's personality . Lewis, however, believes that all men should be able to enjoy poetry, and that the poet writes about something "external" to him.

If you are a reader of poetry, this book presents some great suggestions and ideas from two leading scholars!

The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism

My mom has been trying to get me to read this book for months. I tend not to read a lot of theology, other than Lewis, because...well...I'm a quick reader and sometimes reading theology quickly can be overwhelming. Theology is something you want to chew on, read slowly over a long period of time...and I dread doing that. But I found this book suited me, because I actually couldn't put it down! Not only did I get through it quickly, I enjoyed it and was able to take a lot from it.

I've read a few 'defense of the faith' type books over the past few years. To be honest, other than Mere Christianity, I haven't been very pleased with a lot of them. As a Christian, I understand them, but when I read apologetic type works, I try and read them with the mindset of the unbeliever. And unfortunately, it seems like when doing that I'm left with more questions than answers with a lot of books.

Not so with this one. Pastor Tim Keller covers not just the basics of Christianity, but answers EVERY question that modern day skeptics bring up. Any doubt of Christianity is clearly answered. He brings in good arguments (another thing seemingly lacking in other books I've read) and humor, drawing from literature, pop culture, the Bible, and philosophy.

This is a great book for the skeptic, and a even better one for the person who wants to have an answer for the skeptic. This book and Mere Christianity should probably be the top books on any apologist's shelf!

A Death in the Family

A perfect little family is suddenly and irrevocably destroyed. That is the main theme of this book--heartbreaking and tragic, but written in a way that no other book on death has ever been.

The autobiographical novel tells about the family of a young man, Jay, who is killed suddenly in a car accident after going to visit his father. The thirty-five year old man leaves behind a wife, a three year old, and a five or six year old, and the novel tells from the point of view of these characters from the time that Jay leaves to see his father through is funeral. It is a intimate portrait of the grief and responsibility, especially of Jay's widow, as she seeks comfort in her own family, cares for her children, and tries to reach out to Jay's distant family, while seeking comfort in her faith.

Treasuring God in Our Traditions

For my review of this book for Crossway, you can find it here.

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Thursday, April 2, 2009 - When I was seventeen, it was a very good year....

....but now it is over! Yup, that's right, as of Friday, March 27, 2009, I'm officially a legal adult. Weird, huh? And yes, it does feel different.

So for my birthday, I had an absolutely crazy time. Friday was my birthday, so big sis came over and we did the birthday dinner/cake deal.

Mmm. Enchiladas. And HOT salsa. Nobody ever buys hot salsa but me; so you know it was my birthday if we had hot salsa. ;)

And my cake was out of this world. Seriously. Dark chocolate cake with raspberry filling and cream filling and fudge icing. Can it get any better?

And don't laugh at me, because I thought this was the most beautiful picture ever taken:

And of course, this was my birthday cake, so it had to be personalized. And my mom, being the coolest mom that I've ever had, made the cake absolutely ME by putting on three of some of my favorite literary characters on it: Sir Lancelot, Robin Hood, and one of the Three Musketeers. Yes, a literature cake. No, that's not geeky at all.

And speaking of literature I have to gush over some of the books I got:

(Collected Letters of C.S. Lewis box set Volume 1&2, The Children of Hurin, Lilith, Idylls of the King, and a hardcover Alexandre Dumas set that includes the Count of Monte Cristo, The Three Musketeers, AND The Man in the Iron Mask--is that a cool set or what?!?)

and these, from my totally awesome aunt:

(The Norton Anthology of American Literature, vol. A-D)

C'est la vie.

My darling big sister also got me some very *exotic* makeup that came with about fifty-three different tools to apply it with (?!?!?)--and she insisted on applying it herself. Let me tell you, love you sis, but I'm really not partial to being made up by other people.

I made it through all right though.

And being perfectly honest, I don't know what she did to my hair and I don't want to know. She and Mom thought it looked great, but seriously--wouldn't you laugh if you saw someone walking down the street with their hair like this?!?

this is my attempted (not so successful) Sarah Palin look.

(I think she's laughing at me. Maybe because *she's* the pretty one, and I'm just the witty one. haha.)

awww...sisters. :-D

anyway...enough of me modeling. ;)

Now Saturday was the big day. We drove up to Philadelphia...we got there pretty early, so we spent a bit of the afternoon hanging around the historic part of the city--which we've done several times, so it didn't take too long.

Stephen with Independence Hall in the background...

Such a cool pic...

In the passageway Ben Franklin used to walk from work to home...

hangin' at Betsy Ross' house...

Ben's post office in the background....

She's cute. That's what this picture is about. ;)

We're both cute. That's what that picture is about. :P

In the evening we set off for what we really had come for--the Narnia Exhibition at the Franklin Science Center.

I think it is the most amazing thing I've ever seen. Unfortunately, you can't take pictures in the actual exhibit, but I will try and give you as many details as I can, for all you Narnia buffs!

This wasn't just a museum--no going into a single room and seeing a bunch of things in glass. Nope, this was actually going INTO Narnia.

The first room in the exhibit mainly consisted of C.S. Lewis' things--his pipe, his mug, hand written letters, first editions of his books, etc. And of course, one of the most delightful things of all--the wardrobe that is THE wardrobe that he owned and based the Narnian one off of.

Next, we enter the doors into a room that very much resembles this:

Same walls, same floor, same wardrobe--and it was even "raining" outside the windows. While the Narnian music is playing, the wardrobe doors swing open, and we're transported to a new world--well at least as close as you can get in Pennsylvania!

We walked through the coats in the wardrobe and were greeted by a winter wonderland--complete with falling "snow!" Then we were introduced to The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe original movie props--the children's clothes, items from the Beaver's house, things from Mr. Tumnus house (and his umbrella...eeee!), the White Witch's dress, sleigh, crowns, wand, Turkish Delight, statues of stone and many more props from that movie.

Next, we moved on to the original items from the Prince Caspian movie. First the beginning of the movie was represented by the children's school clothes and the treasure chamber complete with statues, chests, Edmund's chess piece, Susan's bow set, her purple dress, and more of the treasure props that you saw in the movie.

The later parts of the movie included a working catapult, Telmarine armor, Caspian's armor (AMAZING!), one of the chairs from the Telmarine house of lords, the model of the castle used in the movie, Miraz and Prunaprismia's clothing, Dr. Cornelius' desk and glasses and library...

Later we were introduced to the children's armor. Peter and Edmund's battle outfits were always my favorite, and they don't disappoint in real life. Susan's and Lucy's clothing is likewise beautiful, but it was the three boys' armor and clothes that were incredible.

We were also given the chance to try out the a catapult, mess around with some armor and swords, sit in a very COLD replica of the WW's throne....

What else...oh, yes, Trufflehunter's Den was too cool to go into. As was the stuffed minotaur--Nikabrik is right, they ARE HUGE!

Lastly, we visited the Great Hall of Cair Paravel and walked down the aisle--centaurs holding swords high above us--to the end, where Susan's throne st, along with the crowns of the Four.

Of course, I absolutely loved seeing some of C.S. Lewis' belongings. That was the best for me. You know I love the man. But I also did tremendously enjoy the movie props--especially the costumes. They looked great in the movie, but even more amazing in real life!

And now I feel like I've truly been to Narnia. Oh bother. I think I left my new electric torch there.

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Monday, March 16, 2009 - Treasuring God in Our Traditions

Welcome to the third edition of reviews for Crossway! Today we are looking at Noël Piper's great family book, Treasuring God in Our Traditions. I think many of you will like hearing about this book. As always, please check out the Crossway blog at http://www.crossway.org/blog/.

Treasuring God in our Traditions

If you are anybody at all, you probably have some kind of tradition in your family. They may be unusual ones or they might be simple traditions that many Americans share with their families. They might be related to your heritage or your lifestyle. You might share them with your family or they might be something that you keep on by yourself. You use them to honor people, places, holidays--but can we use them to honor God?

Noël Piper, who is the wife of the theologian and pastor John Piper, answers this question in her delightful little book that is geared for families, but anyone can enjoy and learn from. Noël uses examples from her own family--her parents, siblings, in-laws, and her own children, to show how traditions are necessary to life and can be used to bring glory to God as we use traditions to instill godly values on our children or others.

This is a wonderful little book and a great addition to any family library, especially recommended for young parents. Noël not only gives good advice, but keeps it interesting by adding fun anecdotes about the traditions in her own family, as well as providing us with ways to start our own additions. Of course, an extra special bonus are the family recipes and poetry that are sprinkled throughout the book!

At 117 pages, this book is not overwhelming. Instead, it is a call to parents (and anyone in their own lives) to raise their children in a way that is pleasing to God, while creating an atmosphere of fun and learning--all in our everyday and more rare traditions!

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Thursday, March 12, 2009 - In which George Lucas plagiarizes...

A couple weeks ago, I was flipping through my big, hardcover, 1,037 page version of Gone With the Wind, re-reading some of my favorite scenes...and when I came across one part of the story, I almost fell over. It resulted in an instant revelation.

Consider theses quotes from Gone With the Wind (the book):

"'Scarlett, you do like me, don't you?'

That was more than she was expecting.

'Well, sometimes,' she answered cautiously. 'When you aren't acting like a varmint.'

He laughed again and held the palm of her hand against his hard cheek. 'I think you like me because I am a varmint. You've known so few dyed-in-the wool varmints in your sheltered life that my very difference holds a quaint charm for you.'

This was not the turn she had anticipated and she tried again without success to pull her hand free.

'That's not true! I like nice men--men you can depend on to always be gentlemanly.'"

"You ought to be kissed, and by somebody who knows how!"

and compare it with these ones from Empire Strikes Back:

Leia: You make it so difficult sometimes.
Han: I do, I really do. You could be a little nicer, though. Come on, admit it. Sometimes you think I'm all right.
Leia: Occasionally, maybe... when you aren't acting like a scoundrel.
Han: Scoundrel? Scoundrel? I like the sound of that.
[Han starts to massage Leia's hand]
Leia: Stop that.
Han: Stop what?
Leia: [timidly] Stop that. My hands are dirty.
Han: My hands are dirty, too. What are you afraid of?
Leia: Afraid?
Han: You're trembling.
Leia: I'm not trembling.
[Han moves in closer]
Han: You like me because I'm a scoundrel. There aren't enough scoundrels in your life.
Leia: I happen to like nice men.

Han: You could use a good kiss!

Now, did you ever know that Han and Leia, and Scarlett and Rhett were so much alike? Rhett's a varmint; Han's a scoundrel, and that is where all the difference is.

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Tuesday, March 3, 2009 - February Book Reviews

Boxen: The Imaginary World of the Young C. S. Lewis

When most people think of C.S. Lewis' fiction, they think of Narnia. If you are more familiar with the author, you might think about the Space Trilogy or even Till We Have Faces. If you are very into Lewis, you might have even picked up The Dark Tower and some other of his short stories and unfinished novels. But most people, I can bet, haven't read this--Lewis first piece of fiction.

Possibly, this could be because Lewis wrote this collection starting at the age of eight. While it doesn't at all resemble Narnia, Lewis and his brother Warnie spent hours over their childhood inventing Animal Land.

This published edition features all the surviving stories of Animal Land--including the humorous anecdotes, geography, history, civilization, culture, and social issues going on in this great imaginary country. It also includes a few of young Jack's inventive illustrations.

While of course this is not an award winning piece of fiction, if you are interested in Lewis, it is worth it to see his earliest work of fiction. The affect is humorous, yet fascinating as you see how different his writing was at age eight versus age fifty-eight!

God in the Dock: Essays on Theology and Ethics

Essays on theology and ethics?!? You might ask. It doesn't sound the most...uh..interesting, does it?

It is. It's C.S. Lewis. It has to be.

This book of essays is divided into three parts--the theological, the semi-theological, and the secular ethical. Each section deals with various problems--everything from Lewis' thoughts on capital punishment, war, and other social issues, to his thoughts on theological problems themselves--from prayer to apologetics.

This is a great collection of essays--some of the best on Christianity offered by a great mind!

Of Other Worlds: Essays and Stories

While most of the "stories" in this collection are published in The Dark Tower and Other Stories, which I've read, the essays in this collection are brand new to me. They cover primarily literature, ranging on subjects such as science fiction and writing for children. Lewis also takes time to discuss both Narnia and his own Space Trilogy--something he rarely does. For that reason alone this is a worthy text.

Lewis spends a good deal of time on three essays in particular. First, one on writing for children. As someone who would love to write for kids, that aspect of it was fascinating. Lewis presented the idea that when writing for children you must write what you would like to read yourself. Although children have different tastes than adults sometimes, adults don't have to have different tastes than children. He points out mistakes authors make--such as writing things they think are boring but because they think kids would be into it. Second, Lewis discusses science fiction in depth. He discusses Verne, Wells, and other sci-fi writers, giving his thoughts on the history of sci fi and on the genre itself. How do you really accomplish writing in this genre? Lewis does his best to answer that question. Finally, Lewis' essay on criticism is great for any budding author or reader to read. Other works include publisher's notes, and a very humorous interview conducted not too long before Lewis' final illness.

Narrative Poems (C.S. Lewis)

I admit--I'm not a huge poetry person. But I do love narrative poetry. And I love C.S. Lewis--so how could I not love this collection of every narrative poem Lewis wrote?

First we begin with Dymer. This poem was written by Lewis as a young man. He began it at age seventeen, and it was published when he was twenty-eight. In an ironic turn of events, it tells the story of a man who throws off the bonds of a totalitarian society and faces his own monsters (literally).

Next, we have Launcelot and the Nameless Isle, but shorter poems but fascinating. Finally, another longer poem, called the Queen of the Drum. This was probably my favorite, with rich imagery and symbolism.

If you aren't into narrative poetry, you may struggle with these poems. Narrative poetry is fun and beautiful, but learn to love it the more you read it. I wouldn't try these poems to begin with, but if you do like narrative poetry, I would recommend these poems.

East of Eden

This book was not quite what I expected. I knew the story--I thought it was about two brothers. Apparently, that's only part of the story. Unfortunately, it is the best part, and the first two hundred pages of back story could have been compressed into fifty.

Once you get past that, though, the next four hundred pages telling of Cal and Aron are quite fascinating. These two brothers symbolize Cain and Abel. Their mother abandons them as babies, and their father is at first distant. These two boys grow up very close, but very different. Aron is good and likeable, while Cal is deep, dark, and mysterious. The characterizations of these brothers is by far the best part of the story. They are two great literary characters and their relationships to each other, their family, and their friends is a great glimpse into human character.

I don't usually make disclaimers with my books as far as who I recommend them to. While I enjoy some books and can learn from them, that doesn't mean I would give them to everyone who reads my blog. Some of the stuff I've read, while not in itself bad, I just wouldn't want to hand over to any twelve year old. I think that goes without saying--just because I've read it doesn't mean you younger folks shouldn't check it out with your parents first. I always assumed you folks were smart enough to know that. However, with this book I do have to make a bit of a disclaimer. There is nothing really graphic in this book--but I know that Steinbeck sometimes is read at an earlier age . People see The Grapes of Wrath movie then assume all of Steinbeck's stuff is equally fitting for kids. It's not. First, Steinbeck's mom should have washed his mouth out with soap. Haha! Like I said, though, there's nothing horribly graphic about this book (not trying to scare you older people away from it!) but it does deal with some more mature issues--at least I wouldn't recommend it for the middle school set, no matter how much you enjoyed Of Mice and Men. There, that's said. Good.

The Artist as Critic: Critical Writings of Oscar Wilde

Wilde is the king of a lot, in my humble opinion. Plays, poetry, even a novel--he's done it all and done it well. This is the first bit of non-fiction I've read, though. I was unsurprisingly impressed.

Wilde discusses all aspects of art and criticism in this series of essays. Whether he is talking about Americans, painting, or poetry, he makes his opinions clear in his humorous and witty style.

Perhaps the most interesting piece in this book, though, is his analysis of Willie Hughes, a young boy whom is believed to be the subject of some of Shakespeare's sonnets. Wilde explores exactly who Hughes could be (albeit a stretched story that he made up, some critics now believe it to be closer to the mark than even Wilde thought) and makes this an almost detective story and literary criticism rolled into one!

A great collection of essays on criticisms!

Nicholas Nickleby

Nicholas Nickleby has a great name. That alone makes this book awesome! However, I'm wiling to say that Dickens also did a nice job in writing a decent story, not just creating nice alliteration in name.

Nicholas Nickleby, after the death of his father, is left to support his mother and younger sister. He is only nineteen, and takes a job as an assistant at a boarding school. There he finds out that this seemingly respectable school is a place of abuse and cruelty to the young boys in it. He leaves--but not before he has made some enemies--and of course, some friends. Meanwhile, his sister tries to find her way in the world, hoping to contribute to the family. Unfortunately, like her brother, she is startled to find that the world isn't nearly so nice a place as she thought it was.

While a great story, it does drag a bit. I've always thought Dickens was great at beginning and ends, but sometimes he just let things go on a bit long in between. There was about two-three hundred pages in the middle that just made me want it to speed up. Maybe that's just the nature of something written as a serial.

Regardless, it is still a nice story, especially if you love Dickens.

Julius Caesar

Some people are surprised to hear I'm not a huge Shakespeare person. They know I love British lit, so they just assume I'm a follower of the Bard. I'm not really...sure, I read Lamb's Book of Shakespeare when I was eight; I've read quite a few of his plays since then; I've listened to them on tape and I've seen several of them a few times (Romeo and Juliet more times than I care to mention..gah, my least favorite of Shakespeare!). However, I never really connected with Shakespeare.

At least not until now.

And I realized, that part of it is, that I've never read Shakespeare properly. He wasn't meant to just be read, he was meant to be watched. And by better performers than Bob Jones University has to offer. No offense, of course.

So with Julius Caesar, I not only read it. I re-read it. I read it cover to cover twice, then read portions over and over. I've memorized parts. I'm still working on Antony's funeral speech ("Friend, Romans, Countrymen, lend me your ears!"). I watched it (Brando version, of course). Multiple times.

I felt like I did it right. And I haven't enjoyed something so much in a long time.

Of course, it isn't just what I did. Caesar itself is a great play, the best of Shakespeare, in my opinion. It is a play of politics, glory, love, loyalty, and it is all a blaze of fire, action, and eloquent speech. There is nothing comparable to it.

If you aren't familiar with the story, basically--Caesar is offered the crown, and the senators in Rome don't like it. They are afraid he'll go to far and become a tyrant. Led by Brutus, they kill him, but his good friend Mark Antony manipulates the plebeians into waging war on these Senators.

There is so much depth in this play, about human emotions, struggles, revenge...it is the most complex of anything Shakespeare wrote, as far as I'm concerned. Brutus is conflicted as he wonders what is the right thing to do ("I loved Caesar but I loved Rome more"). Antony plays the loyal friend and comes across as a great leader. Antony is so well defined, that he is fast becoming one of my new favorite fictional characters.

Yet if you are going to read it, do it right. Don't make the mistake I've made with Shakespeare all this time. He takes time, but in the end it is worth it. Make sure you don't just read it, but watch it, as it was meant to be. For Julius Caesar, I highly recommend the 1953 version with Marlon Brando, James Mason, Deborah Kerr, and Greer Garson. It captures the essence beautifully. If you don't watch Shakespeare as well as read it, it might just be Greek to you!

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Saturday, February 21, 2009 - Oscar Week--Day #7 1939

1939-- it was literally THE year in film. And, it was also exactly 70 years ago. 70 years ago this year was the greatest year in film history, according to a lot of film historians. It is easy to understand this when we look back at some of the films released in that year--and see how many of them even know are considered the best in film history.

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, starring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce

Another Thin Man, starring William Powell and Myrna Loy

Babes in Arms

Beau Geste, starring Gary Cooper and Ray Milland

Dark Victory, starring Bette Davis

Destry Rides Again, starring James Stewart

Dodge City, starring Errol Flynn and Olivia de Havilland

Gone with the Wind, starring Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh

Goodbye, Mr. Chips, starring Robert Donat and Greer Garson

The Hound of the Baskervilles, starring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce

The Hunchback of Notre Dame, starring Charles Laughton and Maureen O'Hara

Jamaica Inn, by Alfred Hitchcock