Scarce Complete First Edition Set Of C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles Of Narnia, In Original Dust Jackets

LEWIS, C. S.Chronicles of Narnia. London: Geoffrey Bles and The Bodley Head, 1950-56. Together, seven volumes. Octavo, original colored cloth, original dust jackets. Housed together in a custom clamshell box.$49,000.

First editions of all seven books in Lewis' cherished Chronicles of Narnia, "intoxicating to all but the most relentlessly unimaginative of readers," all in original dust jackets. Generally excellent condition.

Lewis is likely best remembered for his beloved fantasy series, the Chronicles of Narnia. Lewis was "concerned to do for children what he had done for an adult readership in his science fiction… to re-imagine the Christian story in an exciting narrative context… [The Narnia books are] intoxicating to all but the most relentlessly unimaginative of readers, and must be judged the most sustained achievement in fantasy for children by a 20th-century author" (Carpenter & Pritchard, 370). "The stories are unforgettable not only for the excitement and suspense of the adventures but also for the strong emotions they describe so well… [and they are] further enriched by Lewis' skillful use of language" (Silvey, 406). Unlike most fantasy series, "each book has something new and different to offer and there is no weakening of either inspiration or interest" (Eyre, 132). All seven books were "illustrated by Pauline Baynes in delightful fashion. She was also responsible for the now amazingly rare gray dust wrapper" of the first book (Cooper & Cooper, 206). "Adored by children and academics alike, these books are extremely collectible, sought-after and scarce" (Connolly, 186).Fantasy and Horror 5-176. Owner signatures, gift inscriptions. Booksellers' small tickets in Dawn Treader and Horse. Small inkstamp to rear pastedown of Last Battle.