Book Review: The Narnia Code by Michael Ward

This book is a review of a larger volume entitled ‘Planet Narnia’ which sets out Ward’s argument that the chronicles of Narnia were written with underlying structure based upon the seven planets of the pre-Copernican solar system. While it is an easy read this sets out in a simple and easily understandable manner the analysis and evidence for this perspective. Ward illustrates how this structure and metaphorical imagery symbolises God and Jesus Christ.

 

This was an interesting read, however, I found it very repetitive and with slightly too much of a Christian theological slant to it rather than taking an impartial view to the Christian/religious message within Lewis’ novels. This being said it is, in my opinion, a good example of critical analysis for those starting out in the literary research line. I like reading about how author's write, their process and thinking style and structures* so this was an enjoyable read and a good small book to have in my bag for 5min gaps of time or sitting on the train etc. It provides good overview of the planetary symbolism which is often lost to those today who did not study classics at school, which echo’s to what Lewis himself stated about the old language and meaning behind it being hidden but still of use today.

 

I would recommend it to those with an interest in the deeper meaning behind the Narnia stories as well as those interested in literary analysis, though I expect that the original volume would provide a greater insight for those looking for something less aligned with light-reading.

 

*I would highly recommend Haruki Murikami's 'What I talk about when I talk about running' for this also although it is a minor theme within this book also.

Book Review: A Day to Die For

A Day to Die For

1996: Everest's Worst Disaster

by G. Ratcliffe

I have not read that many of the accounts of this event, but having an interest in travelogues and accounts of survival in extreme circumstances, I felt this was a must for my mountaineering-education as it were. This account of the 1996 climbing season on Everest has been perceived as controversial due to the author's attempt to 'uncover the truth' about the cause of this disaster, however it has also been claimed to provide an honest and full explanation where previous accounts have omitted the some of the details.

 

It is an easy read, however I found the writing style rather repetitive, and while there is a warmth to the author's voice I found his narrative rather egocentric. This is an account of the author's experience and search for understanding to appease his feelings of guilt and regret having been on the South Col during the storm on the night of 10th May. Where, for me at least, it lacked the in depth personal descriptions of the experience of climbing and the environment of the area, it emphasises the dedication and determination with which Ratcliffe drove his search. I found this longwinded and unnecessary circular in places but then that is the nature of research, a familiar experience which I had not been expecting to read about in this book.

 

Overall, I found this an interesting and insightful book, one which made me want to read others' account in order to compare them. I think by the end of it I would not say I liked it, I'd be unlikely to read it again at least, however I would recommend it to other readers interested in understanding the motivations and considerations (or disregard there of) behind decision making in extreme environments.