The Mythmakers: The Remarkable Fellowship of C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien (A Graphic Novel)
What’s inside...
The Mythmakers is a graphic novel biography by John Hendrix that delves into the rich friendship and creative fellowship between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. It explores their childhoods, experiences in World War I, and their time at Oxford that led to the creation of their masterworks, 'The Chronicles of Narnia' and 'The Lord of the Rings'. The novel illustrates their camaraderie, the influence of their literary circle, the Inklings, and how their friendship endured through personal and global crises. Hendrix uses prose, comic panels, and conversations between a wizard and a lion to discuss themes like mythology, faith, and fantasy. It also includes back matter that elaborates on specific themes such as world-building, the theology of creation, and the difference in storytelling styles between Lewis and Tolkien.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-15
Length
217 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the friendship between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien influence their creativity and storytelling?
What qualities make a strong and supportive friendship, as seen in Lewis and Tolkien's relationship?
Why do you think the authors used a graphic novel format to tell this story about Lewis and Tolkien?
How do the illustrations enhance or add depth to the story being told about these two authors?
If you could ask C.S. Lewis or J.R.R. Tolkien one question, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about their own friendships and discuss any similarities with the friendship between Lewis and Tolkien.
Discuss the significance of storytelling and imagination, as emphasized in the book, and ask your child about their favorite stories or imaginative play experiences.
Point out specific illustrations that catch your child's attention and ask what they think is happening or what emotions the characters might be feeling.
Use the graphic novel format as an opportunity to explore visual literacy. Ask your child how the pictures help to tell the story or convey the mood.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s everyday life, such as how teamwork and collaboration can lead to great results, as demonstrated by Lewis and Tolkien.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of friendship and collaboration
Explanation: The graphic novel portrays the deep bond between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, highlighting how their friendship fostered creative collaboration, leading to the creation of iconic literary worlds.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of nurturing friendships and collaborating with others to achieve common goals, enhancing teamwork skills in school projects or group activities.
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance and resilience
Explanation: The story showcases how both authors faced personal and professional challenges but continued to pursue their passion for writing and storytelling, inspiring each other along the way.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of persisting through difficulties and using challenges as opportunities to grow, applicable in academics, sports, and personal pursuits.
Example Lesson: Valuing diverse perspectives
Explanation: Lewis and Tolkien, though close friends, often had differing views on various topics which they respectfully debated. This exchange enriched their own views and literary works.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to listen to different viewpoints and respectfully share their own, promoting open-mindedness and better communication skills in school and at home.
Example Lesson: The joy of imaginative creation
Explanation: The novel emphasizes the joy both authors found in creating complex, fantastical worlds, showcasing the limitless possibilities of the imagination.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to engage in creative activities such as writing, drawing, or playing make-believe, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Lifelong learning and intellectual curiosity
Explanation: Lewis and Tolkien were both scholars who deeply valued learning, constantly exploring new ideas and literary techniques, which influenced their writing.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be curious, ask questions, and pursue learning, not just in school but as a continuous, lifelong process.