The Magician's Nephew
#1 of 7 in The Chronicles of Narnia Series
What’s inside...
The Magician's Nephew is a high fantasy novel for children by C. S. Lewis, published by Bodley Head in 1955. It is the sixth published of seven novels in The Chronicles of Narnia (1950–1956); it is volume one in recent editions, which sequence the books according to Narnia history. Don’t miss one of America’s top 100 most-loved novels, selected by PBS’s The Great American Read. The secret passage to the house next door leads to a fascinating adventure. Narnia... where the woods are thick and cool, where Talking Beasts are called to life... a new world where the adventure begins. Digory and Polly meet and make friends one cold, wet summer in London. Their lives burst into adventure when Digory's Uncle Andrew, who thinks he is a magician, sends them hurtling to... somewhere else. They find their way to Narnia, newborn from the Lion's song, and encounter the evil sorceress Jadis, before they finally return home.
Discussion points
What did you think about the magical worlds that Polly and Digory visited? Which one would you like to explore?
How did Digory's choices affect the adventure? Can you think of a time when you made an important choice?
What do you think are some differences between good and evil characters in the story? How can we tell?
The rings have the power to take the children to different places. Where would you go if you had a ring like that, and why?
Friendship is an important theme in the book. What do you think makes a good friend, based on Polly and Digory's relationship?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine and describe their own magical world, fostering creative thinking.
Discuss the consequences of actions with your child, relating it back to Digory’s decisions and the outcomes that followed.
Highlight examples of morality within the story and compare them to real-life situations, prompting ethical reasoning.
Engage in a fun activity by designing your own magical rings and discussing the adventures they could take you on.
Reflect on the themes of friendship in the story, and relate them to your child’s experiences with their friends, reinforcing social bonds.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of choice and its consequences
Explanation: In 'The Magician's Nephew', Digory is faced with various choices, most notably when he must decide whether to obey Aslan and not eat the silver apple. This choice highlights the moral implications and the consequences that follow.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that their choices have impacts and encourages them to think about the consequences before making decisions.
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and integrity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Digory demonstrates courage and integrity, especially when he admits his mistakes and works to rectify them. This portrayal underscores the values of honesty and bravery.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being honest about their actions and bravely facing the consequences, which helps in building their moral character.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and trust
Explanation: Digory and Polly’s friendship is central to the story, showing how trust and cooperation can overcome challenges. Their alliance is built on mutual respect and trust, crucial for overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to value and nurture their friendships and to understand the importance of trust and teamwork in achieving common goals.
Example Lesson: Respect for authority and wisdom
Explanation: Aslan, as a figure of authority and wisdom in the story, guides the characters through their journey. Respect for his guidance is a recurring theme.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to respect elders and listen to those with more experience, understanding that this can provide valuable guidance through various life situations.