The First of Three

"Out of the Silent Planet" is the first book in a space trilogy written by C.S. Lewis, who is perhaps better know for "The Chronicles of Narnia." In a time of extreme interest in space movies ("Mission to Mars, Red Planet" just to name two) some may enjoy discovering this book for the classic it is.
The books theme is a man, aptly named Ransom, is kidnapped and sent to Mars as a sacrifice to the "Martians" living there. Lewis' descriptions of the space vehicle and ride are not to be compared to Jules Verne's perhaps, but the reading is fast-paced and exciting. Please consider the time in which this book was written - World War II. This should not diminish the book; rather it should highlight Lewis' imaginative writing.
The real weight of the book comes in Ransom's adventures after reaching Mars from the "Silent Planet," which is Earth. The descriptions Lewis uses to describe Mars' surface and the living habits of the inhabitants are enthralling. As the drama unfolds, Lewis' Mars becomes like "home" to the reader.
I have read this book so many times that I could write the script for the movie myself. While I have read other science fiction/fantasy novels, for instance Michael Crichton's collection, I am still drawn to this trilogy. The underlying lessons in Lewis' books never grow old.
If you like classic, intelligent writing you will love this book. The trilogy continues with "Perelandra," and "That Hideous Strength."