A review by nytephoenyx
The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman

adventurous hopeful inspiring tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

 I have read The Golden Compass so many times, I know its beats as well as I know the rhythm of my own heart.

This book is an old favorite - I've listened to the audiobook three times, including once with my husband; my old box set paperback copy has seen better days.  I have distinct memories of reading this book on my lap in high school French and hoping le professeur did not notice (I'm pretty sure she did).  And as I come back to The Golden Compass and His Dark Materials time and time again... it's still good.

There's a few different things to look at and admire here, but one that has always struck me is Pullman's depiction of Lyra.  Unlike more and more books I read these days, I've always felt Lyra acted her age and felt very much a child.  She's brimming with curiosity, often fails to think her actions through to their consequences, and responds... purely, I guess, to the things around her.  I can't say Pullman has consistently been adept at writing children (La Belle Sauvage is not as well done) but Lyra is fantastic.

And she's not the only character who shines in this novel.  Mrs. Coulter is certainly a force to be reckoned with, and I've always enjoyed the beauty and sadness behind the Serafina Pekkala/Farder Coram relationship.  Lee Scoresby and Iorek Byrnison are also fantastic characters.... particularly as the series goes on (no spoilers here!).

The urgency of the plot momentum and the adventurous storyline are also gripping and wonderful.  I'm always struck by a story that moves into cold climates, because it's as though nature itself becomes a minor villain due to the extreme weather.  Even though I've read it so many times, The Golden Compass never feels tired or predictable.  I know what's going to happen overall from experience, but I completely enjoy the journey.  If you haven't read it before, I don't think it's predictable at all.  I love the alethiometer.  I love the twists.  I really love the daemons.  As I've gotten older, I've grown to enjoy the fantasy philosophy and the conversation about Dust and other worlds as well.

While I can't necessary put Pullman on a "best authors" list (he's made some poor Twitter decisions, and his depiction of the "gyptians" is very stereotypical, although they are characters to be respected), it would be foolish to deny the brilliance of this trilogy.  His Dark Materials, and The Golden Compass are filled with memorable characters, adventure, meaningful conversation, and wonder. 
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