George MacDonald

I have read quite a few books this year, but the ones I like the best were written by 19th century author George MacDonald.  Born in 1824 in Scotland, his published works include many books on theology, and collections of his poetry.  He was quoted quite freely by both C.S. Lewis and Neal A. Maxwell, two other of my favorite authors.  But the books I like the most are his works of fiction.  Those who know me best are no doubt wondering what happened to me as my taste in fiction is pretty much restricted to Mark Twain and Charles Dickens.  So far this year I have read five of MacDonald's books, in the order I read them:

1. Phantasties

2. The Light Princess

3. Far Above Rubies

4. There And Back

5. The Princess and the Goblin

I also began to read Lilith, but gave it up after just a few pages.

As you will no doubt recall, the reading of Phantasties was one of the key elements in C.S. Lewis' return to his Christian faith.  That, in fact, was what drew me to MacDonald in the first place - my respect for Lewis and love of his writings, particularly The Great Divorce, in which MacDonald makes an appearance.

I must say, however, that of all the books written by MacDonald I have read so far, Phantasties was my least favorite.  It did not resonate with me, and I often considered it tedious and difficult to follow.  My favorite to date is There And Back, which has an interesting story line and is packed with his theological ideas, which I enjoy.  My next favorite is The Princess and the Goblin, which I just finished.  This is one of those books that you begin reading for the story line, and pretty soon begin thinking, "Hey, I think he is trying to teach me something." There are some great lessons hidden in the story line.  The Light Princess is just a fun little short story.

I have also partially read some of his other books, including Hope of the Gospel and Unspoken Sermons, both of which I found interesting.

So there you have a little of what I have been doing to relax when time affords it.  I recommend you download some of his books (I have quite a collection, all downloaded for free) and try him out.  If you don't like one, try another, and let me know what you think.  As for me, I am off to begin another.