Surprised by Joy: The Shape of My Early Life

by C.S. Lewis
Surprised by Joy: The Shape of My Early Life cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Biography and Memoir
Technical
  • ID: 2348
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-15
  • ISBN: 9780062565440
  • Publisher: HarperCollins
  • Published: 2017-02-14
  • Reviews: 4

Surprised by Joy is a spiritual memoir by C.S. Lewis, detailing his transformation from a skeptical atheist to a devoted Christian. Lewis takes readers through his early life in Belfast, his experiences at boarding school, and his time in World War I, all while grappling with his belief in God. His journey culminates at Oxford, where he finally embraces Christianity, describing himself as the most reluctant convert in England. Through his search for joy, Lewis illustrates the profound role it played in guiding him to find God, offering a deeply personal and introspective account of faith and conversion. This memoir not only provides a glimpse into Lewis's personal life but also showcases his intellectual and emotional struggles. His reflections on joy and its significance in his spiritual journey make this book a compelling read for those interested in theology, philosophy, and personal transformation. Lewis's eloquent prose and honest self-reflection make Surprised by Joy a timeless exploration of faith and the human experience.

Reviews
The Storygraph · 2025-10-15
thought-provoking 4.00

They found the book slightly challenging but ultimately enjoyable and thought-provoking. Lewis's definition of Joy as an aching desire for eternity is particularly impactful.

The reviewer from The Storygraph admits that Surprised by Joy was slightly harder to get into than expected, but they ultimately found it enjoyable and deeply thought-provoking. They were particularly struck by Lewis's definition of Joy as an aching desire for eternity, which they found both profound and moving. The reviewer appreciates how Lewis's personal journey and philosophical insights make the book a rewarding read, even if it requires a bit more effort to fully appreciate. They highlight the book's ability to evoke deep emotions and provoke introspection, making it a memorable experience.

Quick quotes

    Slightly harder work than I expected but I really enjoyed this.

    His definition of Joy as an aching desire for eternity really struck me.

    The book is a rewarding read for those willing to engage with its deeper themes.

Richard Blackaby · Richard Blackaby · 2025-10-13
insightful 4.50

The book is compared to Winston Churchill's memoir, highlighting Lewis' early life and spiritual journey. The focus is on Lewis' introspective and philosophical approach to his experiences.

Richard Blackaby draws parallels between this book and Winston Churchill's 'My Early Life,' noting that both works focus on the authors' formative years. He appreciates Lewis' introspective and philosophical approach, which delves deeply into his search for joy and spiritual growth. The reviewer finds the book engaging and thought-provoking, particularly in its exploration of Lewis' transition from atheism back to Christianity. Blackaby highlights how Lewis' personal journey is not just a recounting of events but a profound examination of the human experience.

Quick quotes

    The book focuses on Lewis' early life.

    It reminds me, in some ways, of Winston Churchill's similar volume, which is not surprisingly entitled My Early Life.

    Lewis' introspective and philosophical approach to his experiences.

Imperfect Happiness · 2014-03-19
resonant 4.50

The book is almost loved for its insightful and resonant exploration of Lewis' path. The reviewer finds Lewis' personal journey deeply relatable and thought-provoking.

The reviewer from Imperfect Happiness almost loved this book, finding Lewis' path deeply resonant and insightful. They appreciate how Lewis' journey, although different from their own, strikes a chord in many ways. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to evoke deep thought and emotional connection, making it a compelling read. The personal and philosophical elements of Lewis' story are particularly praised, as they offer a unique perspective on the search for joy and spiritual fulfillment.

Quick quotes

    I very nearly loved this book.

    Lewis's path—although very different from my own—resonates with me in so many ways.

    Lewis has so many insightful and profound moments.

Cosmoetica · Jessica Schneider · 2008-07-06
profound 4.00

The book is praised for its philosophical examination of joy and its personal resonance. The reviewer appreciates Lewis' unique perspective on the concept of joy.

Jessica Schneider finds 'Surprised by Joy' to be a deeply philosophical exploration of joy, which resonates with her on a personal level. She appreciates Lewis' unique perspective and his ability to articulate the concept of joy in a way that is both profound and relatable. The reviewer notes that Lewis' journey from atheism back to Christianity is particularly compelling, as it is intertwined with his search for joy. Schneider's review highlights the book's ability to evoke deep thought and emotional connection.

Quick quotes

    Ultimately, this book philosophically examines the idea of Joy and what it is exactly.

    For some, like Lewis, this Joy was coupled with his spiritual journey.

    Lewis' unique perspective on the concept of joy.

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