THE BOY BEHIND THE WARDROBE: HOW C.S. LEWIS GREW UP TO CREATE NARNIA, by Suzanne Poulter Harris and Mira Miroslavova, Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, Oct. 20, 2026, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 6-12)
Learn what inspired C.S. Lewis to write one of the most beloved series ever written in The Boy Behind the Wardrobe, by Suzanne Poulter Harris and Mira Miroslavova.
Once a boy was born to make stories: C.S. Lewis. He insisted on being called “Jack” and loved to write and draw with his older brother. But after his mother died, he was shipped to boarding school, where he longed for real friends and sought refuge in books. And words and stories would strengthen him during World War I, connect him to bookish friends like J.R.R. Tolkien, and drive him toward his destiny as a world-renowned author…
With lyrical words from Suzanne Poulter Harris and lush, fantastical art from Mira Miroslavova, The Boy Behind the Wardrobe goes beyond the traditional picture book biography to explore the history and emotional trajectory of a child who struggled to fit in, yet created books beloved by millions around the globe. Like the wardrobe transporting the Pevensies to Narnia, this biography will transport readers into Lewis’s solitary childhood, his fantastic imagination, and his journey of hope. An author’s note, timeline, bibliography, and other back matter offer additional insights into Jack’s life and inspiration. —Synopsis provided by Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
The Boy Behind the Wardrobe is a lovely picture book biography from Suzanne Poulter Harris. Harris found inspiration in the echoes of Narnia all over the island Lewis called home. Her writing is warm and thoughtful.
Illustrator Mira Miroslavova drew from her own time living in the United Kingdom. She tried to capture the feeling of industrial Britain but add the magic found in Lewis’ books. Her art is a lovely mix of real and imagined. And her use of light helps further her ideas.
The Boy Behind the Wardrobe is an informative and interesting nonfiction read. Strong backmatter includes author’s and illustrator’s notes, a timeline, and a bibliography.
Copyright © 2026 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.
