The Truest Fairy Tale: An Anthology of the Religious Writings of G.K. Chesterton By Kevin L. Morris A fresh and unrivalled look at G.K. Chesterton as a religious writer, offering a new and sometime surprising synthesis of Chesterton’s view of the essence of Christianity. ISBN-13: 9780718830618 Specifications: 216x140mm, 244pp, Paperback Price: £17.50 • US$37.50 Publication: January 2007 Order this Title Now

About this Book

The Truest Fairy Tale is the only major themed analytical anthology of Chesterton's religious writing with real focus and usefulness. Although presented as an anthology, it is more than just a collection of quotations. Each passage has been carefully chosen with respect for its relevance and context, effectively creating a new text in which Chesterton’s religious views are made more accessible, while encouraging the reader to ponder their meaning more deeply.

Morris is a revisionist, who challenges the view that the later Chesterton was a conservative Roman Catholic. Rather, he was a liberal Christian, who encouraged the reader to think philosophically, as well as religiously. Morris emphasises Chesterton’s tolerant temperament, his universal appeal, and, above all, his significance to all Christians. As he points out: "The point of reading Chesterton today is to be ideologically and intellectually stimulated, challenged and perhaps inspired and enlightened, rather than to be informed about facts or instructed in doctrinal details."

A selection of previously uncollected pieces chosen for their contemporary relevance and challenging, thought-provoking qualities.
Provides the most comprehensive general statement on Chesterton as a Christian writer.

Contents

Introduction. Chesterton’s Religious Life, Religious Mind and Writings
1. Basic Religion
2. General Approaches to Christianity
3. Anti-Religion
4. Non-Christian Religion
5. Christian Denominations
6. Christian Disposition
7. Christian Spirituality
8. Christian History and its Biblical Origin
9. Christian Life
10. Church and Society
11. Doctrines

Reviews and Comments

"... an essential reference work: a first port of call for discovering Chesterton's thinking on almost any religious subject."
Martin Ward

About the Author

Kevin Morris has a PhD in English Literature and History, and specialises in the overlap between Religion and English Literature. He is a retired teacher.