The Subtle Knife

Pullman, Philip.  1997.  The Subtle Knife.  New York: Random House.  ISBN 0440238145

Lyra has followed her father, Lore Asriel, over the mysterious bridge. What she finds is a new world...several, in fact. As she and other adventurers from The Golden Compass embark upon their separate, yet related, journeys, the intentions of Lord Asriel become more clear. Will Parry, a young and fierce boy, teams up with Lyra and may just get more than he bargains for, and, throughout the novel, the presence of the subtle knife is tantalizing in its potential to shape or sever the schemes of longer-known characters.

Pullman effectively continues His Dark Materials without compromising the intrigue of what is yet to come. Readers of this trilogy will not be let down by this second installment, and will undoubtedly reach for the last volume as soon as The Subtle Knife is completed.

The fantastical elements paired with the plight of the under-represented that made The Golden Compass such a success are present in The Subtle Knife, and, as with any middle book in a trilogy, answers to old questions spawn new intrigue. Captivating and elusive, His Dark Materials is well-written and the characters are given new depth. Pullman leads the reader on a journey that is at once fascinating and terrifying. The slow realization that the balance is shifting yet again, and that the story will continue in ways unimagined are key to the continued success of these books.

Young teens through adults will enjoy the fantasy that so well represents the naiveté, perseverance, character and cynicism that are common elements of human nature.

"Pullman has so intricately woven the textures of the two books that the outlines of the first are clearly recapitulated in the second, making it possible to read this one alone..."(Kirkus/1997)

"Once again Pullman succeeds in pushing readers headlong into other worlds...” (Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books/November 1997)

Possible Activities:
1. Great discussion starter for religous differences, beliefs and symbolism.
2. Can be discussed in terms of good vs. evil and reality of the blurred lines between the two.