The Box of Delights

Reread this because Chris of Calmgrove mentioned it as a possible inspiration for the Chronicles of Narnia. There are talking animals, children named Peter and Susan, and a person entering a picture on the wall...no doubt it had its influence. But Masefield's writing is far more poetic than Lewis's and his storytelling is less straightforward. The tone changes frequently, from Nesbit-like kid capers to beautiful, dreamlike scenes of magic and mystery, to comic satire centered around a gang of thieves posing as clergymen. It's a bit of an odd mix, and left me a little unsure what to make of it all. Plus it ends up being a dream! Aside from Alice, this is a disappointing way for any magical story to end.

Yet another book I discovered from BookCrossing.

I consider myself a knowledgeable reader, especially a knowledgeable reader of children's stories. This book was completely unknown to me, as I would suspect, it is unknown to most here in America.

It is the kind of book I thrived on as a child. It's fantasy and adventure, with danger and purpose and mystery.

Best of all are the characters. The children are not content to sit quietly by the fire reading. Oh no, they are out in the world, being chased by wolves, being given magic boxes, being captured by gangs, and otherwise living big lives.

I'd love to see what modern children think of this book. Hope we get some input from other readers of this bookring.