Such a good companion to the Narnia series! Not only does this act as a comprehensive encyclopedia of all things Narnian, but it discusses topics that show up in Lewis' writing, give background into why and how certain themes show up in the Chronicles and also discuss the chronology and reading order of the books (hint: read them in published order your first time through and then go back and read them again in chronological order) A must-read for any fan of the Chronicles of Narnia. ( )

Only a 2.5 (below average) because there's not much in there that a true Narnian wouldn't know already... ( )

I first entered Narnia as a child, simply pushing the fur coats aside and stepping through the wardrobe into the snowy world near the lamp post. I didn't need a guide book. Things just unfolded and I went with the flow of wonders. I came back for an extended visit when I was expecting my first child. There were concepts there that I had not noticed before as "concepts". I felt inspired and doubly moved by its beauty. Now, I'm at the "grandma" age if not yet in that reality. I've popped back in to visit old friends and this guide book is truly a "companion." I realize that the word "companion" in the title refers to the fact that this volume is a companion to the Narnia books, but for me the title has a double meaning, in that it is also my companion on the journey to Narnia, my tour guide, so to speak.
This book takes you by the hand and encourages you to look closer, gently pointing out the secrets of the locale that only the natives might know. It gives insights and provokes thought and dialogue. It is a neat holistic view that encourages an appreciation for the big picture by illuminating the subtle details. It is also the kind of tribute to the minute of one's heroes that all "fans" love to pour over. If you are a young person just let Lucy help you find your way into Narnia and I assure you that you will have a splendid time, but if you are a bit older I recommend this travelog and the company of this wonderfully helpful and insightful book.
This book also contains an insightful foreward by Madeleine L'Engle, author of "A Wrinkle in Time". ( )

Written like a dictionary, from "adult" to "Zardeenah," this is an excellent reference source for everything Narnia. The introduction includes a discussion of the order in which to read The Chronicles of Narnia, and also gives several books for further research into the world of Narnia and the life of C. S. Lewis. The appendices are superb -- I often use the two that have the children's ages in each book, and an our world/Narnia timetable.

I have read both the 5th and 6th editions, and would recommend the sixth. Some of the entries have been updated (the entry on "adults" comes to mind in particular) and corrected for the better. ( )

Whenever I reread the Narnia series, this is right by my elbow to help keep every person and place straight! ( )