Painting Wonder: How Pauline Baynes Illustrated the Worlds of C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien Perfect Picture Book Friday

The captivating story of how the map of Tolkien's Middle Earth and the illustrations for C.S. Lewis' Narnia came to be.

text and illustrations copyright, Katie Wray Schon, 2025, Waxwing Books

One of my earliest memories is sitting with my dad as he read The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe aloud, staring at the illustrations—the wardrobe in the professor's house, the White Witch’s castle, the lamp post in Narnia,—and wondering what it would be like to live in that far-away land. So, naturally, I was intrigued by this book, and the story of how the illustrations came about--and who created them. 

This gorgeous picture book tells the story of the artist, Pauline Baynes, and her life's journey, which ultimately intersected with literary greats, such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. It's fascinating to see how various experiences shaped her love of books and art, and prepared her for her future. Fans of Narnia and Middle Earth will enjoy seeing foreshadowing of those magical places, throughout the book's illustrations, as doors open for Pauline. The thing I love about this book is the way the words work together with the pictures to hint at what's to come, and bring her story to life, making this an engaging read and a book that is perfect for school, library, or home settings.

Title:  PAINTING WONDER: HOW PAULINE BAYNES ILLUSTRATED THE WORLDS OF C.S. LEWIS & J.R.R. TOLKIEN

Author and Illustrator:  Katie Wray Schon

Publisher:  Waxwing Books, 2025

Age: 6-8

Themes:  Perseverance, Literature, Adventure, Art

Here are a few activities that align with the themes in this book:

• Read The Chronicles of Narnia. Keep an eye open for Pauline Baynes' illustrations throughout.​
• Pauline Baynes drew maps, and you can, too! Go for a walk around your neighborhood or block. Make note of important landmarks or details--trees, parks, stores or buildings. At home, draw a map of what you saw. Don't forget to include where you live! Check out this website for map-making instructions.
• Conversation starters: "What is your favorite part of Pauline Baynes' story?" "Pauline Baynes found adventure in books. Which books do you find adventure in?" "What is your favorite book? Why?"

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!