"There are some themes, some subjects, too large for adult fiction; they can only be dealt with adequately in a children’s book...We need stories so much that we’re even willing to read bad books to get them, if the good books won’t supply them. We all need stories, but children are more frank about it.” -Philip Pullman, author

Books are the most constant companion I know aside from Jesus. They always have been. This summer, after spending four years reading classic literature meant to broaden my mind, I have found myself falling in love with series I read in elementary school. They are filled with magic and adventure and things I know better to believe in, but they still hold more truth than most books I find. I have dusted off my Narnia books and climbed to the high shelf where I keep my Harry Potter books proudly on display. Along the way, I've learned more than I ever imagined I could from lands I thought were created only for young readers.

Harry Potter:

Be persistent. From his first encounter with owl mail, Harry never gave up, whether the Dursleys or a Death Eater was in his way.

Happiness is important. Good memories produce powerful, protective Patronuses. Laughter baffles Boggarts.

Love is powerful.Harry was saved by his mother's. His for his friends and world led him to be the hero he didn't believe he could be. The Weasley's was stronger than even Percy's mistakes.

Choose wisely. Whether it be friends or enemies or paths of life, be careful. Draco shows that pasts can be overcome, even if we originally chose the wrong path.

Fight for what you believe in. For the good of yourself, the good of others, good in general, take a stand.

Never let fear win.The wedding at the beginning of the seventh book shows that love can flourish in times of war. The whole cast of characters enjoys themselves and celebrates, not allowing the circumstances to stamp out their joy.

The Chronicles of Narnia

"Things never happen the same way twice, dear one."Just as one example of Aslan's wisdom, the entrances into Narnia are never the same, and never involve the exact people as another.

Illogical doesn't mean impossible.As Susan so frequently points out the faulty logic in the magical land, her siblings are quick to show her that it doesn't make it any less real.

Transformation is an act of grace. Both Edmund and Eustance undergo massive character change as they adventure into Narnia. From traitor to king and selfish child to devoted servant, they embody how much of a difference forgiveness can make.

Faith is far greater than seeing. From the beginning of the journeys in the magical world, each new generation of children trusts in Aslan before ever seeing him. They place great value in His guidance without needing visual affirmation.

He holds it all. Often in the series, talking beasts and sons and daughters of Adam and Eve remind each other Who is in control. Aslan, the great Creator, has them between His paws.

I'm so thankful for these books and so many more than shaped me into someone who could not only read for pleasure, but who could also read for insight. I am glad to have the chance to revisit them before I set out on a new journey.

"Since it is so likely that (children) will meet cruel enemies, let them at least have heard of brave knights and heroic courage. Otherwise you are making their destiny not brighter but darker."
— C.S. Lewis