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47 pages 1 hour read

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

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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