Short Stories

Somewhat Interesting...

First of all, I did expect this to contain material by Lewis that was incomplete, yet even knowing that didn't remove the disappointment I felt when the stories just stopped. I can appreciate the notes, background info and the look into the author while young, but I was left with an unexpected incompleteness. Lewis fans who want to get a taste of some projects that never hit the big time should enjoy this, but be prepared for abrupt story endings with no explanations and no attempt to examine the endings. Hope this helps. Later.

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For the Lewis fan

I recently finished listening to Short Stories written by C. S. Lewis, edited by Lesley Walmsley and narrated by Ralph Cosham.

This is an eclectic collection of short stories by Lewis. Some are historical fiction while others are science fiction and they cover everything in between. Some, sadly, are incomplete.

The reading of this includes commentary by the editor on when each of these was written, if they are reflected in Lewis' more popular works, and insights into Lewis' thought process. The editor implies he knew Lewis personally, thus he is able to offer intimate details on the thought process of his friend.

The narrator, Ralph Cosham, is a bit of a mixed bag. On the one hand he is fairly good at evoking emotion and drawing the listener in. On the other hand he sounds like a soft spoken grandfather who is actively trying to put you to bed for the night. I think he has the makings of a great narrator if he could only add a little pizzazz to his words.

Conclusion: This series of short stories, while covering a host of subjects, is primarily aimed at fans of Lewis' work. I would suggest this to any C. S. Lewis fan.

Great Listening

Would you listen to Short Stories again? Why?

These stories are so creative. It seems many films have taken ideas from these stories.

Frustrating

This book wasn’t for you, but who do you think might enjoy it more?

There needs to be a clear announcement at the beginning of the story that the end is missing.

Would you ever listen to anything by C. S. Lewis again?

of course, he's an awesome writer

What reaction did this book spark in you? Anger, sadness, disappointment?

frustration

Opened up new concepts in my mind

I really liked how the various stories provided new ideas or ways of looking at things.

C.S. Lewis is a master of story telling

You do have to give this your un-divided attention, but if you do, it is really good!

Amazing

Amazing voice amazing stories it just makes you want more and more and it will never get old you need to get its right now

Hidden Gems of C.S. Lewis

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I would recommend this book to a friend because it is C.S. Lewis. The stories are great even if not as developed and finished as some of his more popular works. They give a person greater insight into the workings of a truly masterful story teller's mind.

What other book might you compare Short Stories to and why?

I would compare these short stories to books like "the great divorce." Or perhaps to the posthumously published Tolkien short stories that are not always finished, but open up a new world for you to play with.

Which scene was your favorite?

I loved "the Dark Tower." But I had to laugh and replay the part where C.S. Lewis comes up with an acronym spelling "What Ho" for the name of a woman's group intent on sending ugly prostitutes to scientists in space.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I did listen to this book all in one sitting. It wasn't very long, and it was a nice way to relax while I carved on a Sunday afternoon.

Surprisingly misogynisitic

Two of the stories are incomplete novels, but every story has at least one reference to how he dislikes modern women. One story had a friend visit, regrettably, with his fiancee. Lewis enters her mind and finds it vapid and second rate. Another story, men are sent to Mars, and a counsel back on Earth (made of women) decide men can't do without sex so they ask for volunteers. In this way a fat seventy year old whore and a woman professor of psychology are dropped off for the boys, who want nothing to do with them. Very odd collection, not sure if he was attempting humour or not. If you like Lewis of Narnia or Lewis the apologist, I would stay away from this. Narrator was very good.

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