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The Golden Compass

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1995

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Book Brief

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Philip Pullman

The Golden Compass

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1995
Book Details
Pages

399

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Alternate Universe • Early 20th century

Publication Year

1995

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

930L

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Super Short Summary

In The Golden Compass, 11-year-old Lyra Belacqua, along with her dæmon Pantalaimon, travels from an alternate Oxford northward to find her friend Roger. With help from the gyptians, witches, and an armored bear named Iorek, Lyra uncovers sinister truths, confronts horrifying practices like dæmon-severing, and learns about other worlds and her own significance.

Fantastical

Adventurous

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

1,568,668 ratings

73%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman captivates with its rich imagination and complex world-building, drawing praise for its compelling characters and intricate plot. Critics appreciate its exploration of deep themes but note moments of narrative pacing issues. Despite some controversy over its religious commentary, the novel remains a beloved staple of fantasy literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Golden Compass?

The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman captivates readers who relish intricate fantasy worlds, complex characters, and philosophical undertones. Ideal for fans of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series and C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia, it blends adventure with deep ethical questions, appealing to both young adults and mature readers.

4.3

1,568,668 ratings

73%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Lyra Belacqua

An adventurous and sharp-witted 11-year-old girl raised among scholars at Oxford, known for her captivating curiosity and strong moral compass.

Lyra's dæmon, who constantly shifts forms and acts as her moral guide and companion, reflecting her deepest fears and strengths.

An armored bear with a deep sense of duty and honor who aids Lyra and plays a significant role in the northern regions.

A charismatic and intelligent woman with a sinister edge who is deeply intertwined with Lyra's journey.

A free-spirited Texan aeronaut with strong ties to Iorek, known for his sky balloon and pragmatic outlook.

The wise and authoritative leader of the gyptians who aids Lyra with his measured counsel and protection.

An elder gyptian who assists Lyra with his wisdom and knowledge, particularly in using the alethiometer.

A powerful and ancient witch with a goose daemon, who offers guidance and assistance to Lyra.

Lyra's loyal childhood friend and playmate whose bond with her transcends their different social statuses at Oxford.

A nurturing gyptian woman and mother figure to Lyra who embodies strength and care within the gyptian community.

A formidable explorer and researcher with intricate ties to Lyra, driven by ambitious pursuits beyond the ordinary.

Book Details
Pages

399

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Alternate Universe • Early 20th century

Publication Year

1995

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

930L

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