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The Chronicles of Narnia Reading Order.

Quick Answer

Read in publication order, starting with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (1950).

A beloved high fantasy series detailing the history of the fictional world of Narnia, often read in chronological order of events.

Where to start

Read in publication order, starting with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (1950).

  • •Modern editions number the books chronologically, starting with The Magician's Nephew; use the Chronological view for that order.
  • •The Magician's Nephew explains the origins of things introduced in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, so it works best read after it.

Community Consensus

Medium Debate

"There is a strong general preference among commenters to read a series in publication or release order for the first time. However, when specifically addressing Narnia, there is a split: some readers successfully started with 'The Magician's Nephew' (chronological order), while others strongly regret reading in chronological order, arguing that 'The Magician's Nephew' should be read later (publication order) for maximum impact."

Key Reddit Advice

The majority preference suggests the Publication Order. Specific advice indicates starting with 'The Magician's Nephew' (the chronological first book) may lessen the intended reading experience.

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Reading Order7 Titles

Why Publication Order?We recommend reading in Publication Order (default). This follows the author's release schedule, ensuring you experience plot twists, character growth, and world-building exactly as intended without spoilers.
Best Start Here
1

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Pub: 1950

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a fantasy novel for children by C. S. Lewis, published by Geoffrey Bles in 1950. It is the first published and best known of seven novels in The Chronicles of Narnia (1950–1956). Among all the author's books, it is also the most widely held in libraries.[2] Although it was originally the first of The Chronicles of Narnia, it is volume two in recent editions that are sequenced by the stories' chronology. Like the other Chronicles, it was illustrated by Pauline Baynes, and her work has been retained in many later editions. Most of the novel is set in Narnia, a land of talking animals and mythical creatures that is ruled by the evil White Witch. In the frame story, four English children are relocated to a large, old country house following a wartime evacuation. The youngest, Lucy, visits Narnia three times via the magic of a wardrobe in a spare room. Lucy's three siblings are with her on her third visit to Narnia. In Narnia, the siblings seem fit to fulfill an old prophecy and find themselves adventuring to save Narnia and their own lives. The lion Aslan gives his life to save one of the children; he later rises from the dead, vanquishes the White Witch, and crowns the children Kings and Queens of Narnia.

2

Prince Caspian

Pub: 1951

Plot details hidden until you finish "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe".

There are a thousand stories in the land of Narnia, and the first is about to be told in an extraordinary motion picture, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, from Walt Disney Pictures and Walden Media. In the never-ending war between good and evil, The Chronicles of Narnia set the stage for battles of epic proportions. Some take place in vast fields, where the forces of light and darkness clash. But other battles occur within the small chambers of the heart and are equally decisive. Journeys to the ends of the world, fantastic creatures, betrayals, heroic deeds and friendships won and lost -- all come together in an unforgettable world of magic. So join a prince as he fights for his crown. The fourth volume in The Chronicles of Narnia® Prince Caspian Narnia ... where animals talk ... where trees walk ... where a battle is about to begin. A prince denied his rightful throne gathers an army in a desperate attempt to rid his land of a false king. But in the end, it is a battle of honor between two men alone that will decide the fate of an entire world.

3

The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

Pub: 1952

Plot details hidden until you finish "Prince Caspian".

In "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader," C.S. Lewis continues the beloved Chronicles of Narnia series, blending imaginative storytelling with rich allegorical themes. This installment takes readers on a fantastical maritime adventure alongside Lucy and Edmund Pevensie, and their insistent cousin Eustace, as they embark on a quest to find seven lost lords of Narnia. Lewis employs a vivid and engaging narrative style, characterized by lyrical descriptions and profound philosophical undercurrents, exploring themes of bravery, redemption, and the spiritual journey of self-discovery, within a context deeply rooted in Christian imagery and moral lessons. C.S. Lewis, a scholar and literary giant renowned for both his academic work and children's literature, drew upon his extensive knowledge of mythology, theology, and philosophy when writing this book. Set against a backdrop of World War II, Lewis's personal experiences of longing, loss, and hope profoundly influenced the fantastical worlds he created, enabling readers of all ages to grapple with life's complexities through the lens of adventure and enchantment. "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" is not just an epic adventure, but a profound exploration of the human spirit's journey towards light and truth. Highly recommended for both young readers and adult lovers of fantasy, this book invites reflection on personal courage and the transformative power of faith.

4

The Silver Chair

Pub: 1953

Plot details hidden until you finish "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader".

Jill and Eustace must rescue the Prince from the evil Witch.

5

The Horse and His Boy

Pub: 1954

Plot details hidden until you finish "The Silver Chair".

An orphaned boy and a kidnapped horse gallop for Narnia . . . and freedom.

6

The Magician's Nephew

Pub: 1955

Plot details hidden until you finish "The Horse and His Boy".

DigiCat Publishing presents to you this special edition of "The Magician's Nephew" by C. S. Lewis. DigiCat Publishing considers every written word to be a legacy of humankind. Every DigiCat book has been carefully reproduced for republishing in a new modern format. The books are available in print, as well as ebooks. DigiCat hopes you will treat this work with the acknowledgment and passion it deserves as a classic of world literature.

7

The Last Battle

Pub: 1956

Plot details hidden until you finish "The Magician's Nephew".

The Last Battle chronicles the end of the world of Narnia. During the last days of Narnia, the land faces its fiercest challenge—not an invader from without but an enemy from within. Lies and treachery have taken root in Narnia. Jill and Eustace return to save Narnia. Together with the King Tirian and a small band of loyal followers, the boys try to prevent the destruction of all they hold dear in this land. This reveals the true Narnia to which the Lion King Aslan brings them.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What order should I read The Chronicles of Narnia in?

Read in publication order, starting with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (1950).

How many books are in The Chronicles of Narnia?

7 main books, published 1950–1956.

Can I read The Chronicles of Narnia out of order?

It's best not to. The books build on each other, so reading out of order spoils earlier twists.

Is there a chronological order for The Chronicles of Narnia?

Yes. In story order the series begins with "The Magician's Nephew" rather than "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe". Switch the list below to Chronological to see the full timeline.

Has The Chronicles of Narnia been adapted for TV or film?

Films adapt The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005), Prince Caspian (2008) and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010).