Are you looking for the best Christian books by C.S. Lewis? If yes, then this is the right place for you. In this blog, we are going to take a look at the books of C.S. Lewis in the Christian niche and we are going to rank them from 1 to 10.

Who is C.S. Lewis?

C.S. Lewis, born Clive Staples Lewis on November 29, 1898, in Belfast, Ireland, and passing away on November 22, 1963, in Oxford, England, was a distinguished British writer, scholar, and Christian apologist. His literary legacy is primarily defined by his enchanting works of fiction, notably the timeless and beloved “The Chronicles of Narnia” series, which has earned its place as a classic in children’s literature.

Educational attainment

Beyond his accomplishments as a storyteller, Lewis held esteemed academic positions at both Oxford University and Cambridge University, showcasing his prowess in medieval literature, literary criticism, and Christian theology. His intellectual pursuits were complemented by a close friendship with J.R.R. Tolkien, the renowned author of “The Lord of the Rings.” Together, they were part of the influential literary group known as the Inklings.

Lewis’s academic journey involved roles at Magdalen College, Oxford (1925–1954), and later at Magdalene College, Cambridge (1954–1963). His intellectual contributions were not limited to fiction, as he authored around 40 books, many focused on Christian apologetics, including notable works like “The Screwtape Letters” and “Mere Christianity.”

Early life

Raised in a household that valued reading and education, Lewis’s early literary ventures included stories about a fantasy land populated by “dressed animals,” a testament to his imaginative prowess. His prodigious talent in storytelling became evident at a young age, leading to the eventual collection of his early stories in “Boxen: The Imaginary World of the Young C.S. Lewis” (1985).

Throughout his career, Lewis evolved into one of the intellectual giants of the 20th century. His academic journey included serving as a Fellow and Tutor in English Literature at Oxford until 1954, when he assumed the Chair of Medieval and Renaissance Literature at Cambridge University until his retirement.

Literary work

However, C.S. Lewis’s influence extended beyond the academic realm. His brilliance and imaginative thinking made him one of the most influential writers of the century. Lewis’s literary repertoire encompasses a wide range, from the enchanting Chronicles of Narnia to his thought-provoking works on Christian faith, such as “Mere Christianity,” “Miracles,” and “The Problem of Pain.”

Spiritual journey

While initially an atheist, Lewis’s intellectual and spiritual journey led him to embrace the Christian faith. His transformation is reflected in his writings, which were profoundly influenced by his deep-rooted Christian convictions. As a testament to his versatility, Lewis served as the President of the Socratic Club at Oxford University and was an integral member of the Inklings, a literary group that included luminaries like J.R.R. Tolkien and Charles Williams.

Despite his limited travels, Lewis’s impact resonates globally. His BBC radio broadcasts during World War II, exploring “Right and Wrong, a Clue to the Meaning of the Universe,” garnered widespread acclaim. Today, C.S. Lewis’s legacy endures, with his works continuing to captivate readers and his influence shaping discussions on literature, theology, and faith.

🚨 SUPER IMPORTANT TO READ: 🚨

Editor’s note: This list of books is intended to be used for informational purposes only. Moreover, I have my own fundamental beliefs that may differ from that of the authors, creators, and sellers of the products featured here. Moreover, you can also choose to read books I have written or enroll in my best online course. Ultimately, whatever books you choose in this list, make sure you study your Bible first because it is always the best of the best books of all time Here’s a list of Bibles that you should have. Finally, I am an Amazon Affiliate Program participant. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. I would highly appreciate it if you buy books through my site. Thank you!

Compare C.S. Lewis Books in April 2024

C.S. Lewis wrote more than 30 books. He was a prolific author and all his work has received praise and recognition from various institutions. Thus, it is not surprising if you find it difficult to decide which of his books you will read. Thankfully, with the comparison table below, you’ll have a better idea of where to start:

Rank	Title	About	Publication Date	Reviews
1	Mere Christianity	A compelling exploration of Christian theology and ethics, distilled from a series of radio talks, offering a rational and accessible defense of the Christian faith.	1952	4.8 out of 5 ★★★★★ Read review
2	The Screwtape Letters	A satirical and thought-provoking novel presented in the form of letters from a senior demon, Screwtape, to his nephew Wormwood, offering insights into human nature and the subtleties of spiritual warfare from a devilish perspective.	1942	4.7 out of 5 ★★★★★ Read review
3	The Great Divorce	A thought-provoking allegorical tale that explores the nature of good and evil, depicting a dreamlike journey through Heaven and Hell where moral choices determine one’s eternal destiny.	1945	4.7 out of 5 ★★★★★ Read review
4	The Abolition of Man	A thought-provoking critique on the consequences of diminishing objective values and the erosion of universal moral principles in education and society.	1943	4.6 out of 5 ★★★★★ Read review
5	A Grief Observed	A poignant and introspective exploration of grief, where the author grapples with the profound emotions and spiritual questioning following the death of his wife.	1961	4.6 out of 5 ★★★★★ Read review
6	The Weight of Glory and Other Addresses	A collection of spiritually enriching essays and sermons that explore profound theological and philosophical themes, offering insights into the Christian faith and the human experience.	1941	4.8 out of 5 ★★★★★ Read review
7	NRSV, The C. S. Lewis Bible	Presents the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible, featuring selected reflections, essays, and annotations by C.S. Lewis, providing readers with a unique blend of scripture and the renowned author’s insights.	2021	4.8 out of 5 ★★★★★ Read review
8	The Four Loves	This explores and illuminates the multifaceted nature of love, examining affection, friendship, Eros, and charity through the lens of profound insight and Christian wisdom.	1960	4.7 out of 5 ★★★★★ Read review
9	Reflections on the Psalms	This provides profound insights into the timeless themes of the Psalms, exploring their literary, theological, and personal significance with Lewis’s characteristic wisdom and clarity.	1958	4.6 out of 5 ★★★★★ Read review
10	The Problem of Pain	This delves into the profound theological inquiry of why pain and suffering exist in a world governed by a benevolent God, offering insightful reflections on the nature of human suffering and the Christian perspective on this enduring philosophical challenge.	1940	4.8 out of 5 ★★★★★ Read review

What are the best Christian books of C.S. Lewis?

To give you a better idea, we have gathered the best books of C.S. Lewis that you should read today. We have included the description of the book as well as the reasons you should read and not read it. So, check out our list of the best C.S. Lewis books!

1. Mere Christianity

• Subtitle: Timeless Wisdom Collection Book
• Print Length: 259 pages
• Publication Date: 1952
• Hardcover Price: $$
• Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (19,700+ ratings)

On top of our list, we have C.S. Lewis’ most popular Christian book, Mere Christianity. If there’s one book that you should read by Him, it should be this.

In “Mere Christianity,” C.S. Lewis sets out to offer a logical defense of the existence of God and the Christian faith, with a particular focus on engaging with skeptics. The book begins by presenting a logical proof for the Christian God and then transitions into exploring the common ground shared by all Christians. Originally a series of BBC radio talks during World War II, the content aims to provide a clear and rational defense of Christian doctrines, appealing to a wide audience, including skeptics.

Pros:

Logical Argumentation: “Mere Christianity” is lauded for its logical and rational approach to defending Christian beliefs. Lewis presents a reasoned case for the existence of God and the Christian faith, making it accessible to both believers and skeptics.

Accessible to All Belief Levels: The book caters to readers at various stages of belief, offering an approachable path for those seeking to explore or strengthen their faith. Whether one is a firm believer or a skeptic, the content is designed to engage a diverse audience.

Clear Defense of Christian Doctrines: The book serves its purpose of providing a clear and coherent defense of Christian doctrines. Lewis addresses key aspects of Christian faith, aiming to establish a solid foundation for believers and engage in meaningful dialogue with those who question Christianity.

Cons:

Limited Cultural Context: Given that the content originated as radio talks during World War II, some aspects may lack relevance or require additional context for readers in contemporary times. The book’s age and historical background might be a drawback for those seeking a more modern exploration of Christian apologetics.

I would also add that the book can be a little difficult to understand. So, you need to really re-read the words and sentences to really grasp their meaning. Plus, this book teaches about the Trinity, which I personally don’t agree with.

---

2. The Screwtape Letters

• Subtitle: Timeless Wisdom Collection Book
• Print Length: 75 pages
• Publication Date: 1942
• Hardcover Price: $$
• Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (15,800+ ratings)

“The Screwtape Letters” (1942) is a satirical novel by C.S. Lewis, presented in the form of letters from the senior demon Screwtape to his nephew Wormwood. The letters offer advice on tempting a British man, known as “the Patient,” away from God. The book explores the ordinary struggles and temptations of human life from a devil’s perspective. Written in a fictional, epistolary style, it addresses Christian theological themes related to temptation and resistance.

Pros

Unique Perspective: The novel provides a unique and thought-provoking perspective on human struggles, presenting them from the viewpoint of demons. This fresh angle engages readers in a reflective exploration of Christian theological issues.

Epistolary Style: The use of letters adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, making it a compelling and accessible read. The format allows for a personal connection with the characters while delving into the complexities of spiritual warfare.

Christian Apologetics: “The Screwtape Letters” serves as a powerful Christian apologetic work, addressing themes of temptation, faith, and virtue. It encourages readers to contemplate the nuances of Christian beliefs through a fictional yet insightful lens.

Con:

Challenging Narrative: The satirical and allegorical nature of the novel may be challenging for some readers, especially those unfamiliar with Christian theology. The complexity of the narrative might hinder accessibility for a broader audience.

---

3. The Great Divorce

• Print Length: 160 pages
• Publication Date: 1945
• Hardcover Price: $$
• Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (8,600+ ratings)

“The Great Divorce” is a novel by C.S. Lewis that unfolds an allegorical tale centered around a bus journey from Hell to Heaven. It serves as a profound meditation on themes of grace, judgment, and the inherent nature of good and evil. The narrative begins with an unnamed narrator in the bleak “grey town” who embarks on a bus transporting souls seeking departure from Hell. As the journey unfolds, it becomes apparent that those in Hell have the choice to enter Heaven, challenging the conventional notion that the gates of Hell are externally locked.

Pros:

Innovative Concept: “The Great Divorce” introduces a unique and innovative concept of the gates of Hell being locked from the inside, challenging traditional perceptions of damnation.

Philosophical Exploration: The novel delves into profound philosophical themes such as grace, judgment, and the dichotomy of good and evil, prompting readers to contemplate deeper aspects of spirituality.

Engaging Allegory: C.S. Lewis skillfully employs allegory and fable, creating a captivating narrative that invites readers to explore the complexities of human choices and the consequences of those choices in the afterlife.

Cons:

Potentially Abstract: Some readers may find the allegorical nature of the novel and its philosophical discourse challenging, as it requires a willingness to engage with abstract concepts and theological reflections.

Moreover, please know that the book is an allegory and does not necessarily reflect the true teaching of the Bible regarding heaven and hell.

---

4. The Abolition of Man

• Print Length: 69 pages
• Publication Date: 1943
• Hardcover Price: $$
• Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (8,600+ ratings)

“The Abolition of Man” (1943) by C.S. Lewis is a thought-provoking exploration of education, particularly focusing on the teaching of English in upper-level schools. Lewis defends the importance of objective value and natural law, cautioning against the potential repercussions of abandoning these foundational principles. The book underscores the significance of “man’s power over nature” but criticizes its misuse in debunking values, including the value of science itself. Originally delivered as a series of three lectures at King’s College, Newcastle, in February 1943, the work serves as a robust defense of timeless moral principles.

Pros

Defense of Objective Value: Lewis eloquently defends the concept of objective value and natural law, emphasizing their crucial role in education and society.

Cautionary Warning: The book provides a compelling warning about the potential negative consequences of disregarding foundational principles, urging readers to consider the broader implications.

Thought-Provoking Critique: Lewis offers a thought-provoking critique of the misuse of “man’s power over nature,” particularly in the context of debunking values, adding depth to the discussion.

Cons

Potential Complexity: The intricate exploration of philosophical concepts may pose a challenge for readers who are not familiar with or comfortable navigating dense philosophical discussions.

---

5. A Grief Observed

• Print Length: 68 pages
• Publication Date: 1961
• Hardcover Price: $
• Rating: 4.6 out of 5 (5,800+ ratings)

“A Grief Observed” is C.S. Lewis’s poignant and brutally honest reflection on the death of his wife, Joy Gresham. Divided into four parts, the book delves deep into Lewis’s exploration of grief, exposing the vulnerability of human existence in the face of extreme pain. Lewis grapples with the harsh reality of the damage inflicted by sin on the world, expressing despair over the inevitability of death for all.

Despite vividly portraying his love for Joy, the reflection primarily focuses on grief itself, leaving readers with a profound sense of the fragility of the human experience. The book also explores the intricate processes of the human mind during grief, questioning the possibility of returning to normalcy and revealing Lewis’s evolving spirituality.

Pros

Raw and Honest Reflection: Lewis’s candid exploration of grief provides readers with an unfiltered view of his emotional journey, fostering a deep connection with the rawness of human experience.

Philosophical Inquiry: The book goes beyond personal grief, delving into philosophical questions about the nature of pain, the impact of sin on the world, and the possibility of finding meaning in the face of profound loss.

Evolution of Spirituality: Lewis undergoes a transformative spiritual journey throughout the reflection, leading to a redefinition of his understanding of God and culminating in a sense of gratitude for the gift of true love.

Con

Limited Focus on Joy: Despite being a reflection of Lewis’s love for his wife, the book tends to keep Joy as a somewhat distant figure, with the focus primarily on the author’s experience of grief. This could be seen as a limitation for readers seeking a more intimate understanding of their relationship.

---

---

6. The Weight of Glory and Other Addresses

• Print Length: 66 pages
• Publication Date: 1941
• Hardcover Price: $$$
• Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (1,900+ ratings)

“The Weight of Glory and Other Addresses” is a collection of essays and addresses by C.S. Lewis that explores various aspects of Christianity. Originally published in 1941 as a single sermon titled “The Weight of Glory,” it was later expanded into a compilation of five addresses in 1949, with a revised edition released in 1980 featuring additional essays.

Walter Hooper, in the introduction to the work, arranged the addresses chronologically, highlighting the exceptional nature of “The Weight of Glory.” In this impactful sermon, Lewis delves into the Christian concept of heavenly glory, emphasizing two key qualities: the acceptance and acknowledgment by God and the luminosity of the glorified bodies of the saved. Lewis argues that the “weight” of glory lies in the realization that the redeemed will be approved and delighted by God, akin to an artist appreciating their work or a father cherishing a son.

Pros

Theological Depth: The collection provides profound insights into Christian theology, particularly on the concept of heavenly glory, showcasing Lewis’s intellectual depth and clarity in discussing complex subjects.

Timeless Relevance: Despite its initial publication in the mid-20th century, the themes explored in the essays remain relevant, making it a timeless and enduring resource for readers seeking spiritual wisdom.

Literary Excellence: C.S. Lewis’s exceptional literary skills are evident in the eloquent and engaging presentation of ideas, making the collection accessible to a wide audience.

Con

Limited Focus: While the essays offer valuable reflections on heavenly glory, the collection might be considered narrowly focused on this specific aspect of Christian theology, potentially leaving readers desiring a broader exploration of Lewis’s thoughts.

---

7. NRSV, The C. S. Lewis Bible

• Print Length: 3,785 pages
• Publication Date: October 5, 2021
• Hardcover Price: $$
• Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (200+ ratings)

The NRSV C. S. Lewis Bible is a unique compilation that combines the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) text with over 600 selections from C. S. Lewis’s influential writings. This collection encompasses Lewis’s spiritual classics, letters, poetry, fiction, and lesser-known works, providing readers with a comprehensive view of his profound insights into God’s interaction with the world. Each reading is thoughtfully paired with relevant passages from the Bible, making it a companion for daily meditation and devotional Bible reading.

Pros

Comprehensive Selection: The inclusion of selections from a wide range of C. S. Lewis’s works, including celebrated classics like “Mere Christianity” and “The Screwtape Letters,” offers readers a comprehensive exploration of his thought-provoking ideas and spiritual journey.

Devotional Companion: The pairing of Lewis’s writings with relevant Bible passages enhances the devotional experience, providing readers with a unique perspective and insight into the Scriptures as they engage in daily spiritual disciplines.

NRSV Comfort Print Typeface: The use of Zondervan’s exclusive NRSV Comfort Print typeface ensures a smooth and readable experience, complementing the renowned New Revised Standard Version’s balance of scholarship and readability.

Cons

---

Limited Interpretation: While the collection provides valuable insights from C. S. Lewis, it may present a somewhat narrow interpretation as it primarily reflects his views, potentially limiting the diversity of perspectives in biblical contemplation.

8. The Four Loves

• Print Length: 109 pages
• Publication Date: 1960
• Hardcover Price: $$
• Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (200+ ratings)

C.S. Lewis explores the intricacies of human love in his book, The Four Loves, examining it in four distinct forms: affection, friendship, Eros, and charity. Affection is portrayed as the most basic and emotive form, while friendship is considered the rarest, least jealous, and profoundly chosen. Eros, passionate love, is acknowledged for its potential dangers, running counter to happiness. Charity, deemed the greatest and most spiritual, is characterized by its selflessness.

Lewis emphasizes that proper love involves risk but avoiding it is a damning choice. Love is depicted as both a necessity and a gift, bringing joy and laughter. The quest for an appreciative love that makes “all things possible” is highlighted.

Pros

Comprehensive Exploration: The book offers a comprehensive examination of love, delving into its various forms and intricacies, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of this complex emotion.

Philosophical Depth: C.S. Lewis infuses the exploration of love with philosophical depth, connecting it to broader themes of spirituality, risk, and the potential for joy in the human experience.

Accessible Language: Despite tackling profound concepts, Lewis presents his ideas in accessible language, making the exploration of love relatable and engaging for a wide range of readers.

Con

Potential Complexity: The deep philosophical exploration may be challenging for some readers, potentially making the book less accessible to those seeking a more straightforward discussion of the topic.

---

9. Reflections on the Psalms

• Print Length: 113 pages
• Publication Date: 1958
• Hardcover Price: $$
• Rating: 4.6 out of 5 (1,400+ ratings)

“Reflections on the Psalms” by C.S. Lewis is a profound exploration of spirituality and faith. Lewis, known for his intellectual rigor, offers readers a unique perspective on the biblical Psalms, delving into their poetic and emotional depth. The book not only considers the Psalms as expressions of devotion but also as windows into the complex human experience, navigating through raw emotions, doubts, and existential inquiries.

Lewis grapples with challenging aspects of the Psalms, including imprecatory prayers and divine justice, inviting readers to confront the complexities of belief and the nature of God.

Pros

Intellectual Rigor: C.S. Lewis brings his characteristic intellectual rigor to the exploration of the Psalms, providing readers with a deep and thoughtful analysis.

Insightful Commentary: The book offers insightful commentary that goes beyond traditional interpretations, encouraging readers to engage with the Psalms on a more profound level.

Human Experience Exploration: Lewis’s examination of the Psalms as windows into the human experience, replete with raw emotions and existential inquiries, adds a relatable and enriching dimension to the exploration of spirituality.

Cons

Complexity: The challenging aspects of the Psalms, including imprecatory prayers and notions of divine justice, may make the book complex for some readers, requiring careful consideration and reflection.

---

10. The Problem of Pain

• Print Length: 156 pages
• Publication Date: 1940
• Hardcover Price: $
• Rating: 4.6 out of 5 (3,200+ ratings)

In his exploration of the age-old question of why a benevolent God would permit suffering in the world, C.S. Lewis combines profound insight with a pragmatic approach in this book, The Problem of Pain. Delving into the complexities of this issue, Lewis draws upon his deep knowledge and common sense, offering readers a unique perspective on the nature of pain and its place in human existence.

Through his contemplations, he addresses not only the concept of divine judgment, pondering why a loving God would send people to hell, but also extends his inquiry to the fate of animals, questioning whether they find a place in heaven. Acknowledging pain as an integral part of life, Lewis invites readers on a journey of discovery, providing an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies behind the existence of suffering.

Pros

Intellectual Depth: C.S. Lewis, known for his intellectual prowess, provides a profound exploration of the challenging question, drawing on a rich knowledge base.

Pragmatic Approach: The author combines deep insight with common sense, making the complex topic accessible to a broad audience.

Wide Scope: Lewis’s inquiry not only covers the existence of human suffering but also delves into theological questions related to divine judgment and the afterlife for animals.

Con

Limited Perspective: While Lewis offers valuable insights, his exploration may be limited by the constraints of his theological framework, potentially excluding alternative perspectives on the nature of suffering.

---

Choose the best Christian book by C.S. Lewis

There you have it – from the widely acclaimed “Mere Christianity” to the more niche works like “The Problem of Pain.” C.S. Lewis’ collection of books offers intriguing insights and is certainly worth exploring. It’s important, though, to prioritize God’s word, the Bible, above any human-authored books.

Now, I’d love to hear your thoughts on our list and any other books you believe should be included. Feel free to share your recommendations in the comment section below!

---