64 pages • 2 hours read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
480
Novel • Fiction
Alternate England • Mid-20th century
2017
YA
13-18 years
HL770L
First published in 2017, La Belle Sauvage is the opening installment of The Book of Dust trilogy by British author Philip Pullman. A prequel to Pullman's acclaimed His Dark Materials trilogy, La Belle Sauvage tells the story of 11-year-old Malcolm Polstead, who rescues baby Lyra Belacqua during a massive flood and begins a treacherous journey in his canoe, La Belle Sauvage, with 15-year-old Alice. The source material includes references to and descriptions of sexual assault.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Adventurous
Suspenseful
Emotional
127,060 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Philip Pullman's The Book of Dust has been praised for its imaginative world-building and deep themes. Readers appreciate the return to the richly detailed universe of His Dark Materials, though some feel it starts slowly and lacks the original trilogy's intrigue. Overall, it is a compelling read with engaging characters.
A reader who would enjoy The Book of Dust by Philip Pullman is likely captivated by richly imagined fantasy worlds, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes. Fans of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series and C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia will appreciate the adventure and depth found in Pullman’s works.
127,060 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Alice Parslow
A 16-year-old girl who works for Malcolm’s parents in the Trout inn, known for her teasing and scornful demeanor. Despite her tough exterior, she is sensitive and becomes integral to the story's events.
Gerard Bonneville
An antagonist in the story, once a brilliant scientist, now notorious and shunned, known for his dangerous pursuit of Lyra. His character is marked by a sinister demeanor and a controversial past.
Dr. Hannah Relf
A scholar in Oxford who studies the alethiometer, participates in a secret organization, and advises Malcolm during the story. She plays a pivotal role in guiding him through complex issues.
Lyra Belacqua
A six-month-old baby who is the central figure everyone is concerned about, admired for her charm and intelligence. She becomes the focus of a prophecy that drives the narrative.
Sister Fenella
An elderly nun at Godstow Priory, known for her gentle demeanor and close relationship with Malcolm. She is the primary caretaker of baby Lyra at the priory.
Lord Asriel
Lyra’s father, a prominent explorer with a complex personal history. He cares deeply for Lyra despite being unable to directly raise her.
Mrs. Coulter
Lyra’s mother, a beautiful and influential woman involved with the Magisterium. She is known for her unsettling presence and her connection to several major characters.
Coram van Texel
A gyptian man connected to various characters who plays a crucial role in relaying information. His involvement with gyptians underscores thematic connections in the story.
Lord Nugent
A senior member of Oakley Street, a secret organization working against the Magisterium. He holds significant political influence within the group's leadership.
George Papadimitriou
A professor of Byzantine history and a key contact for Dr. Hannah Relf within the Oakley Street organization, contributing to its resistance efforts.
Adnan Al-Kaisy
Part of the leadership of Oakley Street, serving as the deputy to Lord Nugent. He is instrumental in coordinating efforts against authoritarian forces in the story.
480
Novel • Fiction
Alternate England • Mid-20th century
2017
YA
13-18 years
HL770L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.