The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Four children step through a wardrobe and find a snowy land called Narnia.
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a fantasy novel by C.S. Lewis, first published in 1950. It is number 5 in our list of the best children’s books of all time. Four children step through a wardrobe and find a snowy land called Narnia.
What is The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe about?
Four siblings are sent to a country house during the war. The youngest, Lucy, finds a wardrobe that opens into a snowy wood called Narnia, where it is always winter and never Christmas. The children discover that they have a part to play in the land’s fate.
It was published in 1950 and is the best-known of the seven Narnia books. The author, C.S. Lewis, was born in Belfast.
Book details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Author | C.S. Lewis |
| First published | 1950 |
| Type | Fantasy novel |
| Age guide | 7 to 11 |
| Series | The Chronicles of Narnia |
Why children enjoy The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
- A magical doorway into another world.
- Big ideas about courage and sacrifice, in a story that moves quickly.
- A series to move on to when children want more.
Reading and talking tips
- Ask: where would your own wardrobe door lead?
- Draw a map of Narnia together.
- Read in winter, with a hot chocolate.
An Irish connection
C.S. Lewis was born in Belfast. Find more in our guide to Irish children’s authors.
About C.S. Lewis
C.S. Lewis, born Clive Staples Lewis on 29 November 1898 in Belfast, died on 22 November 1963. He was a scholar who taught at Oxford and Cambridge.
Read more on our C.S. Lewis author page.
If your child likes this, try…
See all 20 in our best children’s books of all time.
Frequently asked questions
What age is The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe for?
It is usually recommended for ages 7 to 11, and works well as a read-aloud.
Is C.S. Lewis Irish?
He was born in Belfast in 1898 and grew up there. He later worked at Oxford and Cambridge.
Where can I borrow The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe?
Most public libraries stock it. See our guide to children’s books and your local library.