About the book
Lyra Belacqua lives half-wild and carefree among the scholars of Jordan College, with her daemon familiar always by her side. But the arrival of her fearsome uncle, Lord Asriel, draws her to the heart of a terrible struggle – a struggle born of Gobblers and stolen children, witch clans and armoured bears.
Reviewed by Queen Mary’s College Library Reading Group
For some it took a while to get into this novel, but it was worth the effort as even those who hate science and fantasy fiction found it a marvellous read. Pullman’s imagination and narrative skill were so clever and convincing that the reader soon accepted all the strange things in and aspects of the world he had created. The many and varied influences including Milton, C.S. Lewis and William Blake were all cleverly assimilated into this book. A cracking narrative pace left most of the group keen to read the next two books in the series.
**** 4 stars
Hampshire Libraries 
Review by Petersfield U3A Book Group 3
Only 3 of our group enjoyed this book – 3 only read 50 pages (5 finished it). It was considered a children’s book for teenagers. 3 stars for inventiveness.
** 2 stars
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Review by Museum Book Group
This was not enjoyed by our group as they do not like “fantasy” books. We all found the subject interesting and it provoked much discussion. They thought it definately a child’s book.
** 2 stars
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Reviewed by Andover Library Reading Group
Most of us enjoyed it. Not a book that most of us would have picked up. Found it pacey, descriptive and wonderful imagination. Loved the deamons and feisty character of Lyra.
*** 3 stars
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