Title: The Golden Compass: His Dark MaterialsAuthor: Phillip Pullman
Publish Date: April 1996
Publisher: Random House Children's Books
Pages: 416pp
IBSN: 0679879242
Classification: Fiction
Genre: Fantasy
Age Range: 12 and up
Annotation: The first book in His Dark Materials trilogy is set in an alternate universe where humans have “daemons.” Lyra, the eleven-year old heroin, sets out on an adventure to save her friend Roger, and ultimately the world.
Summary: Set in a Victorian/Steampunk world where humans have "daemons" that are a physical manifestation of their soul in the form of an animal that is both physically and spiritually connected to them. The story is set around ten-year-old Lyra Belacqua who is an orphan and has been raised at Oxford University by the attending scholars. Along with her companion daemon, Pantalaimon, she sneaks into places she does not belong and learns secrets about her protectors and her home. Lyra’s ride begins when her friend Roger gets kidnapped by adults who conduct experiments on children. Lyra sets out to find him, along the way sh encounters talking bears, flying witches, wandering gypsies, and learns of a possible dispute that exist between different worlds.
Evaluation: Phillip Pullman is an outspoken atheist from England who is also known as a supporter of the British Humanist Association and an Honorary Associate of the National Secular Society. His Dark Materials is said to be what Narnia is for Christians, but for atheists. With that said, I would not classify this book (or series) as anti-Christian or anti-religion. There are minor references and it’s nothing apalling (in my personal opinion). Overall, I view this novel as an adventure-fantasy with present themes that questions truth and deception, as well as what is the value and nature of the soul are.
Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness:
- Trusting yourself.
- Fearless.
- Questioning authority.
- Fighting for your rights.
Reason this book was chosen: Phillip Pullman is an outspoken atheist from England who is also known as a supporter of the British Humanist Association and an Honorary Associate of the National Secular Society. His Dark Materials is said to be what Narnia is for Christians, but for atheists. Now, I am not an atheist, nor am I a Christian, I would consider myself a spiritual human being. In any event, religious matters aside, this book was chosen for the steampunk fantasy element. Alternate universes and girl heroes
Similar Titles:
Series: His Dark Materials
The Golden Compass (2001)
The Subtle Knife (2001)
The Amber Spyglass (2001)
Author Website: Click HERE
Awards:
ALA Popular Paperbacks for Young Adults, 2003
ALA Best Books for Young Adults, 1997
British Book Award (Children's Book of the Year), 1997
ALA Notable Children's Book, 1997
The Movie:
