Karen "Ava" Siruelo

It's much easier to convince people to watch a TV show or a movie than to convince them to read a book. Not everyone can digest a book easily. There are so many genres to choose from. Those who have a passion for reading can easily find great reads without having to consult others. Then again there are those who prefer to find reviews of the book they'll be reading. Sometimes my friends ask me for suggestions for good summer readings. I give them a list of seven books: the seven Chronicles of Narnia.

What makes The Chronicles of Narnia great? For fans, "great" is such a simple word to use to describe the books in the series. Influential, amazing, fantastic… the list goes on. Personally, I like it because it puts my imagination into gear. There's nothing like picturing in your mind what an author has painted in words. You've imagined every corner of the setting and every mole on the main character's face, so much so that when you see the movie you shake your head and think to yourself ”That's not how I imagined it,” or smile and turn to the person next to you to whisper “That's exactly how I pictured it in my mind!”

What makes a good book? Is it the element of surprise? Is it the twist at the ending? Discovering a new world? Getting to know unique and fantastic characters that remain in your heart as you get older, even influencing how you think? Is it the flow of the story that makes you turn page after page? These are all qualities of the seven Chronicles that C.S. Lewis so masterfully created. Find yourself in the middle of an ultimate battle between good and evil. Be present at the creation and the destruction of beautiful worlds. Surround yourself with mystical creatures. Don't be surprised to hear yourself laugh out loud when reading through the books, and be prepared to shed a tear or two.

The books are simple and deep enough for both children and adults to enjoy. Children will enjoy it and relate to the main characters. They can easily imagine themselves going through the adventures the characters had to undergo. Even if you're way past your childhood years, you'll be surprised at how these books will bring out the child in you. Be able to see a world through the eyes of a child. These are books that have survived the test of time, published in the year 1950 and still in print after 56 years.

Whether you've been convinced or not, just grab a copy and find out for yourself if you agree with me.