Brad's Tiny World

Fantasy Book Review – The Golden Compass

Posted on 16. Nov, 2007 by Brad in Books and Authors | Twitter: @bradhart |

Recently I read Philip Pullman’s “The Golden Compass” for the second time, and I have to tell you, it was a refreshing surprise. As the last time I read it was 3-4 years ago I was afraid that it would be “too childish” but instead, I found the story to be just as, if not more compelling.

The rather complex descriptions of the intertwined dimensions is excellent. The fact that the main characters are children does not have a negative impact as the descriptions are quite accurate. It might help you on the way to remembering some of your childhood feats, if you still can. The fact that he can makes you suspect that he has Pullman has an excellent memory.

The familiar peaceful and explanatory beginning ends early on, a definite plus in my book. The fact that the action in the book is viewed through the eyes of a child simply makes it all the more entertaining, thrilling and funny.

However the reasons for the action seems very vague in the beginning, which can be a downside to some. Although to me this just adds an intriguing sense of mystery to all of it, and there’s nothing like a healthy dose of just that, mystery.

The one thing that bothers me a bit is that the church seems to be the big bad enemy, and I’m an atheist so this is not for religious reasons, it is simply that as an enemy in a fantasy book I find it a bit dull. Again that might just be me.

The characters of the book are somewhat realistic and beautifully described, as well as refreshingly imaginative. The interacting between the characters is also pretty realistic as well as amusing. In conclusion, it is a book that is well worth reading except if you are looking purely for help with your intellectual growth, maybe you should read something else. Perhaps Dostoevsky or James Joyce.

Enjoy your reading.

If this review was useful to you, you should check out Fantasy Book Addict for Fantasy Book Reviews and Recommendations
Ragnar Terjeson Miljeteig is a Norwegian student.

Author: Ragnar Terjeson Miljeteig
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