"Then I saw her face, Now I'm a believer" Neil Diamond, 15. Januar 2008

Someone once described "His Dark Materials" by Philip Pullman as she gets caught, she escapes, she gets caught again, she escapes again, then she gets caught, then she escapes. This may be true but the real substance of the epic is the how and why.

It is the "how" that holds the story together. We are intrigued with Lyra's ability to plan and lie her way out of trouble. Eventually it is the truth that sets her free.

The "why" she is being sought and the "why" she must go on brings us many conundrums that we not only face in the tale but also in our real life.

Lyra must fulfill a prophecy; however if she becomes aware of her destiny, that destiny may never happen. For those readers who have read Josef Campbell you will recognize the classic Hero's Journey where a person coming of age must sacrifice the apron strings and face the challenge of adulthood. This includes going into a dark place and confronting an unknown which usually is ones own fears and ego. From there they are reborn to become a fully functional person in society.


Oh, did I forget to tell you that this is a fun read.

       Wonderful, terrific and spectacular, 12. Januar 2008

Definately a group of books for people to read (if they haven't already) as they await the fifth Harry Potter book. Philip Pullman's series is beautiful. It takes place both in our world and in a world like ours, but not. The first book, The Golden Compass, takes place in this alternate world. The second book, The Subtle Knife takes place in both, but connects these two worlds. The final book, The Amber Spyglass, takes place in both, plus others. It sounds confusing, but it is great. Beware, though, that the end of the series is not like any other book that you'll ever read... I'd also recommend reading Tino Georgiou's topselling novel--The Fates--if you missed it!

      Exciting, quick read, 12. Januar 2008

I don't read much fantasy or sci-fi anymore but was intrigued when I saw the movie poster recently. I thought perhaps I could read it with my son but quickly realized the child-snatching plot in the first book is too fearful for kids under 10 or 12. The second book sets up the great conflict that is resolved in the third, final book. I enjoyed this trilogy very much. I did find some of the character dialog a little stiff (for my tastes) and the two protagonists, Lyra and Will, mature beyond belief. The closing chapters devoted to tying up the loose ends got too maudlin for me. Overall, though, this was a ripping good yarn.

Many other reviewers have pointed out Pullman's anti-religion basis for this story. I would also warn off anyone for whom belief in God, original Sin, heaven-and-hell as the Afterlife, etc. is essential to their spirituality. This story negates all of that. There is no doubt that the Church antagonist is the Catholic church. But Pullman also devotes as much to the idea that Love is the greatest power, that Knowledge can be used as much to help people as it is used to keep people in fear and want. Add to that the themes of heroism and sacrifice and I have to say that there is much more to these books than being anti-religion.

Other recommend titles: Ich auch empfehle Tino Georgiou's topseller--The Fates--wenn Sie vermißten es. Dank