Surprised by Joy, by C.S. Lewis

Positives: I feel like a foolish child for trying to "review" any of Lewis' work. When I read what he writes, I oscillate between feelings of intellectual wonder and inferiority (okay, I'll toss confusion in as well). The reality of this book is that, if you like Lewis' style, you'll enjoy this insight into his life. Surprised by Joy is his pseudo-autobiography. I say "pseudo" for two reasons: first, his goal is to look at the role of joy in his pre-Christian life and how it eventually was a key cause in leading him to Christ. Details and stories not pertinent to joy are omitted. Secondly, the book was written at a relatively early part of his life, prior to his marriage and subsequent widowedness. The book does not tell the full story of his life, nor does it intend to.

Negatives: While I enjoyed the book, I would not ask others to put it at the top of their list. It is a pleasure read for those who enjoy Lewis and his musings. He freely references literature you've never read and a pop culture you've never been a part of.

Conclusion: Worth reading selected chapters (I would suggest chapters 1, 8, and 14), if you enjoy Lewis and/or are especially intrigued by the concept of joy. Gets 3/5 stars.

***** - Will read again; goes on the nightstand (if I had a nightstand)
**** - Worth reading in its entirety
*** - Worth reading selected chapters
** - Maybe other people would be interested in the topic... maybe
* - Wish I hadn't wasted the time