45 pages • 1 hour read
A Severe Mercy: A Story of Faith, Tragedy and Triumph
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
240
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
United States And England • 1950s
1977
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
A Severe Mercy by Sheldon Vanauken is a memoir recounting the profound love and spiritual journey of Van and his wife, Davy, from their courtship and marriage to their conversion to Christianity under the influence of C. S. Lewis, culminating in Van's struggle with grief and eventual healing following Davy's untimely death. The memoir deals with themes of love, faith, loss, and personal growth.
Bittersweet
Romantic
Emotional
Contemplative
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
23,284 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
A Severe Mercy by Sheldon Vanauken is a poignant memoir blending romance, faith, and loss. Readers appreciate its deep emotional impact, lyrical prose, and exploration of spiritual themes. Criticisms include a perceived self-indulgence and heavy reliance on religious dialogue. Overall, it resonates strongly with those experiencing grief or seeking introspective literature.
Who Should Read A Severe Mercy?
A reader who would enjoy A Severe Mercy by Sheldon Vanauken is likely someone who appreciates a poignant memoir intertwined with themes of love, faith, and loss. Similar readers might enjoy Surprised by Joy by C.S. Lewis or The Shack by William P. Young. The book appeals to those interested in deep, reflective Christian philosophy and personal transformation.
23,284 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jean “Davy” Davis
Jean “Davy” Davis
An intelligent and artistic woman who shares a profound connection with her husband, Van. Her commitment to her husband and her spiritual journey play a significant role in their shared experiences.
C. S. Lewis
C. S. Lewis
A renowned English author and academic who becomes a friend and spiritual mentor to Van and Davy. His correspondence and personal interactions deeply impact the couple's lives and beliefs.
240
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
United States And England • 1950s
1977
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.