This book is essentially a philosophical work aiming to prove that miracles can happen. Lewis deeply picks apart every argument he’s ever come across which negate the existence of miracles.

Addressing arguments such as naturalism, whether miracles ‘break’ the law of nature, why the supernatural isn’t obvious to us and what the incarnation was all about, Lewis systematically builds his case.

Despite giving no personal testimony, Lewis gives examples from everyday life to illustrate his points. For example, when addressing why the supernatural isn’t obvious to us, he points out that we don’t think about our eyes when we’re reading, yet of course we know they exist. He concludes therefore that the denial of the supernatural is absent-minded.

He also states that miracles don’t break the laws of nature because nature accommodates for them – for example, the divine conception led to pregnancy. The incarnation of Christ is explored as the grand miracle.

The highlights of the book are that Lewis argues valiantly against the philosophical attacks which Christianity is subjected to in the area of the supernatural. He writes in an unassuming style, sensitive style.

On the negative side, the book is very dry and dense to read.

Unfortunately I completely disagree with his final paragraph, which states that miracles almost never happen and we’d have to be ‘heroic missionaries, apostles or martyrs’ to see them. This is a real pity, because after building up to a great climax, he seems to stop suddenly and back track.

I wouldn’t recommend this to everyone, but if you’re into reading highly philosophical books, this is for you.

Reviewed by Jack Champness