Philip Pullman

I actually liked this one more than the first. I don't know, I was able to connect with the story more once the stakes were clear, and the multiple universes made the setting bigger and more interesting. The adventure was quite good, except in some parts where Pullman lectures us a little or tells more than shows. For the life of me, I can't figure why the characters think that Lord Asriel is worth supporting, instead of treating him like the despicable, power-hungry child murderer he is. Not much to choose between him and the Authority, from my point of view.

A lot has been written about the allegorical nature of these books, and the underlying theme about the danger of organized religion makes the story richer, but Pullman walks a think line here. While allegorical meanings make a story deeper and more interesting, if done too heavy-handedly it can also overwhelm the plot and make it less satisfying. Ideally, the book needs to work on both levels. I think Pullman accomplishes that for the most part, but his opinions are strong and he needs to be careful so that the story doesn't become propaganda.

Overall, a well-written, enjoyable and thought-provoking series.… (more)

This is a very famous YA fantasy, and having read it I'm not surprised. It has complex and interesting worldbuilding, in a parallel universe where people have daemon companions who are inseparable from them. The book can be read as a straightforward adventure and rescue mission, but it also ponders on metaphysics and religion. The only thing lacking is that I would have liked to engage with Lyra, the main character, a bit more. She is likable enough, but I guess the narration was a bit distant for me. I'll keep reading the trilogy, in any case.… (more)