Book Review: 'His Dark Materials: Book 1 - Northern Lights' by Philip Pullman

Cover art by Chris Wormell

'Northern Lights' (aka 'The Golden Compass' in North America), book one of Philip Pullman's highly rated 'His Dark Materials' series, and I'm re-reading the entire series in anticipation of the new book release and before the new BBC / HBO TV series airs.

It's the story of Lyra Balacqua, a young girl who has been growing up in the care of the professors at Jordan College with her daemon Pantalaimon, a shape-shifting creature that is sort of spirit animal and the representation of a person's soul. They learn about 'Dust' and become involved in a plot with disappearing children and the Magisterium / Church, so set off to the frozen north on a rescue mission. Along the way, they meet the gyptians (a wandering band of gypsies), witches, a Texan balloonist and a kingdom of armoured polar bears, and discover a revelation or two about Lyra's parents and more.

As the main protagonist, Lyra is certainly feisty, questions everything and stands up for what she thinks is right, even in the face of danger, of which she has to confront time and time again on her travels north. But every time she does, she faces down her fears and comes through, adding strength to her character. I liked her character very much.

The other characters we meet that help Lyra; John Faa, Farder Coram, Iorek Byrnison and Serafina Pekkala are all very likeable as well and the antagonist Mrs Coulter, serves as excellent foil to the hardy Lyra.

The comments I've been seeing about this book, and series, is that it has very distinct views on religion and the church. Although for me, it's not too heavy handed for the main part of the book, although there are points on the Magisterium / Church having views on original sin and their secret agenda. But as I got to the end, the views got a bit more stronger and through Lord Asriel as he explains his motivations, more anti church. Not being religious myself though, it didn't bother me at all.

It's an engrossing and fast paced story in an alternate world full of wonderful characters and magic. I'd also recommend the audiobook, which was pretty good, and was narrated by the author, Philip Pullman and features a full cast performing the characters. I'm looking forward to continuing the story about Lyra and Pantalaimon's adventures in book 2, 'The Subtle Knife'.

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