The Chronicles of Narnia books, ranked worst to best

4. Prince Caspian

Prince Caspian is the first book on this list that’s been adapted as a movie. The book came out in 1951, the second novel Lewis wrote and the fourth in the Narnia chronology.

As well as the titular Prince Caspian, we’re introduced to a couple of the most beloved characters in the series, including Reepicheep, Doctor Cornelius, and the dwarves Nikabrik and Trumpkin. In the 2008 movie from Disney, the latter is portrayed by none other than Game of Thrones star Peter Dinklage (Tyrion Lannister).

A sequel to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, this book sees the return of Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy Pevensie, who once again find themselves magically transported to Narnia, this time from a train station near a ruined castle. When they find themselves back in Narnia, they realize that time works differently here: one year on Earth is equivalent to over one thousand in Narnia. Before long, they learn about the terrible things that have gone down since they were last here, and must embark on a quest to assist Prince Caspian in winning back his rightful place on the throne from King Miraz, the usurper.

This book is a whole lot of fun. We get to know the Pevensie kids even better than before and get attached to Prince Caspian, our titular hero. Every character has their arc carefully planned out.

My only criticism of Prince Caspian is that it’s a little too careful. There are times reading this book when I feel like it copies The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe a too much. An evil ruler who usurps the throne? A battle to stop them? Sound familiar?

This is the reason it doesn’t rank higher on my list, with the books to follow all offering something a little different. Otherwise, a solid read.