The Book of Dust – La Belle Sauvage by Philip Pullman

The Book of Dust – La Belle Sauvage is the first book in a new trilogy by Philip Pullman and serves as a prequel to his His Dark Materials series. Set around 11 years before Northern Lights, the story follows 11-year-old Malcolm Polstead and 15-year-old Alice as they protect the infant Lyra, leading to her being in the care of Jordan College.

Two young people and their dæmons find themselves at the center of a terrifying manhunt, with everything at stake. In their care is a tiny child called Lyra Belacqua, and in that child lies the fate of the future. The chief theme of The Book of Dust is one of the great remaining mysteries of science and metaphysics: consciousness.

What I Liked

I love all things His Dark Materials, Lyra, and Philip Pullman.

What I Did Not Like

I…kind of wish he hadn’t expanded the original trilogy.

The Book of Dust - La Belle Sauvage by Philip Pullman

$16.08

In The Book of Dust - La Belle Sauvage, Philip Pullman takes us back in time, introducing us to 11-year-old Malcolm and 15-year-old Alice as they protect the infant Lyra, setting the stage for her future at Jordan College. The story dives into a thrilling manhunt with high stakes, all while exploring the intriguing theme of consciousness. I have to say, I’m a huge fan of Pullman and the His Dark Materials universe, but I can't help wishing he hadn't chosen to extend the original trilogy. Still, it’s an engaging read for fans.

Pros:

• Engaging characters in Malcolm and Alice
• Intriguing exploration of consciousness
• Strong connection to the original His Dark Materials series

Cons:

• I kind of wish he hadn't expanded the original trilogy.

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01/14/2025 06:13 pm GMT