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Philip Pullman one of the most acclaimed writers working today.
He is best known for the His Dark Materials trilogy (Northern Lights, The Subtle Knife, The Amber Spyglass), which has been named one of the top 100 novels of all time by Newsweek. He has also won many distinguished prizes, including the Carnegie Medal for Northern Lights (and the reader-voted ‘Carnegie of Carnegies’ for the best children’s book of the past seventy years); the Whitbread (now Costa) Award for The Amber Spyglass; and the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award, in honour of his body of work. The first volume of Philip Pullman’s long-awaited trilogy The Book of Dust, set in the same world as His Dark Materials, published in 2017, and the second volume followed in 2019.
Author photo © Michael Leckie portrait.
Very hard to believe that this is the 25th anniversary of Philip Pullman’s ground-breaking fantasy, now getting legions of new fans through the BBC adaptation. Northern Lights not only won the Carnegie medal, but in 2007 was voted by the public as the Carnegie of Carnegies to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the medals. Then The Amber Spyglass, part three of His Dark Materials trilogy, of which Northern Lights is of course the first part, became the first ever children’s book to win, what was then, the Whitbread book of the year and so this series has become firmly established in the canon of children’s literature and a new edition like this is indeed a publishing event. Chris Wormell illustrated the covers of the two Book of Dust titles which extend the trilogy and also a recent rejacketing of His Dark Materials and so is a natural choice to undertake this huge challenge. His distinctive style of wood engraving and lino cut and the dark, yet vivid colour palette he employs are perfectly suited to this familiar, yet fantastical world created by Pullman – who has said how much he admires the work. Ranging from decorative chapter headings to full colour and monochrome vignettes to full page bleeds to double page spreads, the breath-taking images add great characterisation and drama to the story, making the reading journey even more immersive. A shared reading with a generation approaching the story for the first time will be an unforgettable reading event in a classroom or family context. I sincerely hope the partnership will extend to the next books in the trilogy- what a collection that would be!
**Don't miss the second series of His Dark Materials on BBC One this November.** A brand new short story set in the world of His Dark Materials and The Book of Dust by master storyteller, Philip Pullman. Serpentine is a perfect gift for every Pullman fan, new and old. 'Lyra Silvertongue, you're very welcome . . . Yes, I know your new name. Serafina Pekkala told me everything about your exploits' Lyra and her daemon Pantalaimon have left the events of His Dark Materials far behind. In this snapshot of their forever-changed lives they return to the North to visit an old friend, where we will learn that things are not exactly as they seem . . . Illustrated throughout by Tom Duxbury, the perfect re-entry for fans of His Dark Materials and a wonderful companion to The Book of Dust.
December 2020 YA Book of the Month | Imparting wisdom from across two decades, Philip Pullman’s Dæmon Voices shares a generous banquet of thought-provoking insights into the art of story-telling and Pullman’s personal processes and passions. As the book’s editor, Simon Mason, writes in his introduction, Pullman is “interested in, above all, human nature, how we live and love and fight and betray and console one another. How we explain ourselves to ourselves,” and this all-encompassing ethos is reflected here, with essays covering everything from the responsibilities of the storyteller, how stories work, and authors’ intentions, to William Blake, Oliver Twist, and writing fantasy realistically. The tone is lively, ablaze with clear-sighted wit, no matter how complex the subject, with many pieces having been delivered at conferences. One of my personal favourites is “Let’s Write it in Red” which begins with an anecdote about a train journey during which the author witnessed children demonstrating the “two great principles of storytelling”. The first principle is that there are rules - among them stories must begin and have unity, and storytellers mustn’t be afraid of the obvious. Stories must have a destination too, and storytellers “must design the path so that it leads to the destination most surely, and with the maximum effect.” The second principle relates to form: “if the story is a path, then to follow it you have to ignore quite ruthlessly all the things that tempt you away from it. Your business as a storyteller is with the path, not the wood.” To these, Pullman adds a third - knowledge. Storytellers should “become more interested in your subject-matter than in the way you appear to others to be dealing with it.” With each of the 32 essays embodying these astute principles, Dæmon Voices is a trove of enlightenment, and entertaining to boot. Recommended for 16+ readers.
**Don't miss the second series of His Dark Materials on BBC One this November.** From the author of the phenomenal His Dark Materials comes the next chapter in the story of Lyra Silvertongue . . . Lyra is now studying at St Sophia's College, Oxford, with her daemon Pantalaimon. But, for the first time there are serious divisions between the two. Lyra is questioning everything she once held dear. Pan misses the impulsiveness of their youth. When an act of terrible violence breaks the peace of the Oxford night, Lyra and Pan's relationship reaches a crisis and they are drawn, far from home, into the dangerous factions of a world they had no idea existed. The Secret Commonwealth is truly a book for our times; a powerful adventure and a thought-provoking look at what it is to understand yourself and to grow up and make sense of the world around you. This is storytelling at its very best from one of our greatest writers. *Exclusive to the paperback edition, Chris Wormell's new original illustrations bring Lyra's world vividly to life.*
The second in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy. His ‘Dark Materials’, is the story of Lyra, a young girl with an exceptional destiny. Brought up in Jordan College, Oxford Lyra uncovers a secret about her mysterious guardian which leads to some dangerous questioning. It also marks the beginning of Lyra’s search for her friend Roger, a search that takes her to the ice kingdoms of the North where armoured bears rule. Lyra’s courage and stubborn determination lead her on this mission of incredible danger in this brilliant and imaginative story. It’s completely original and totally spellbinding; a true classic that will stand the test of time much in the way Tolkien’s famous work has done.
It is twenty years since the events of La Belle Sauvage: The Book of Dust Volume One unfolded and saw the baby Lyra Belacqua begin her life-changing journey. It is almost ten years since readers left Lyra and the love of her young life, Will Parry, on a park bench in Oxford's Botanic Gardens at the end of the ground-breaking, bestselling His Dark Materials sequence. Now, in The Secret Commonwealth, we meet Lyra Silvertongue. And she is no longer a child . . . The second volume of Philip Pullman's The Book of Dust sees Lyra, now twenty years old, and her daemon Pantalaimon, forced to navigate their relationship in a way they could never have imagined, and drawn into the complex and dangerous factions of a world that they had no idea existed. Pulled along on his own journey too is Malcolm; once a boy with a boat and a mission to save a baby from the flood, now a man with a strong sense of duty and a desire to do what is right. Theirs is a world at once familiar and extraordinary, and they must travel far beyond the edges of Oxford, across Europe and into Asia, in search for what is lost - a city haunted by daemons, a secret at the heart of a desert, and the mystery of the elusive Dust. The Secret Commonwealth is truly a book for our times; a powerful adventure and a thought-provoking look at what it is to understand yourself, to grow up and make sense of the world around you. This is storytelling at its very best from one of our greatest writers.
UKLA Longlist Book Awards - 2019 | Shortlisted for the YA Book Prize 2018 | Author of the Year, British Book Awards 2018 | | More than two decades after Northern Lights the first book of Pullman’s world-famous His Dark Materials trilogy, which has sold more than 17.5 million copies in over 40 languages comes, La Belle Sauvage, the first volume in his 'The Book of Dust' series.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month June 2018 | Master story-teller Philip Pullman is as brilliantly creative in this gripping, multi-narrative graphic novel story as ever. In an adventure which both pays homage to the best-traditions of the past and dashes into the future so enabling it to give an interesting commentary on our own time, Pullman’s lively cast of characters travel through time and place. At the centre of the adventure is a mysterious ghost ship, the Mary Alice, crewed by men from all times including ancient Rome, the seventeenth century and the present. But someone in the present is desperate to get their hands on the boat and will stop at nothing to do so. When contemporary teenager Serena falls from the family yacht she is rescued by crew member John Blake. How can he evade the present day evil and return her safely to her family? Pullman’s brevity and storytelling power are superbly realised in Fred Fordham’s atmospheric and equally taut illustrations. With the sea at the heart of them all, they conjure up the different times and places of the several narratives and define the characters in them. The result is a delight of a book for readers of all ages. Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for June 2018: Mariella, Queen of the Skies by Eoin Colfer Opposites by Roald Dahl 1, 2, 3 by Roald Dahl The Day War Came by Nicola Davies The Hippo at the End of the Hall by Helen Cooper The Adventures of John Blake: Mystery of the Ghost Ship by Philip Pullman Philip Pullman says: “I wanted to do this because I love the comic form. You can do things in comics with great economy, swiftness, force and effect, and I just wanted to use those potentialities.”
Acclaimed author Philip Pullman turns his hand to a stunning and original story for younger readers. Who is Roger? He says he was a rat - and some of the time he behaves like a rat. But, he is also a small boy. Or, he could be the Monster of the sewers…Everyone has a view – including The Daily Scourge – who tells their own version in screaming newspaper headlines. There is just one person who really knows who Roger is. And she’s the princess…Cleverly, Pullman weaves together strands of story from different sources creating a fast-paced and multi-layered adventure.
Shortlisted for the YA Book Prize 2018 | One of Our Books of the Year 2017 | November 2017 Book of the Month More than two decades after Northern Lights the first book of Pullman’s world-famous His Dark Materials trilogy, which has sold more than 17.5 million copies in over 40 languages comes, La Belle Sauvage, the first volume in his 'The Book of Dust' series. #BookofDust will return to the parallel world that has enthralled readers young and old. La Belle Sauvage is set 10 years before Northern Lights and centres on the much-beloved Lyra Belacqua. Alethiometers, dæmons, and the Magisterium all return to play their part. Since the ‘equel’ (as Pullman likes it to be known) to His Dark Materials was announced, fans around the globe have cheered the return of Lyra Belacqua, heroine of His Dark Materials. In a short film released by his publisher, Pullman revealed the ingredient for success behind His Dark Materials: Lyra’s ordinariness. He says: “When I wrote the first book of His Dark Materials - Northern Lights - I certainly didn't anticipate that so many people would find Lyra as interesting a character as I did.” “The thing about Lyra is that she's not a special child. She's not especially gifted or talented - she's a very ordinary child. When I was a teacher, I taught many girls who were like Lyra. They were brave, inquisitive, curious, disobedient: all those interesting things for storytellers. I think the reason that people have read this long and complicated story is because they're with Lyra. She doesn't know the things that are threatening her and she's in the same position as the reader, because the reader shares her sense of danger and excitement and curiosity about what's going to happen next. I hope the same thing will be true of Malcolm in La Belle Sauvage.” A Piece of Passion from Francesca Dow, Managing Director, Penguin Random House Children’s (UK): “La Belle Sauvage: The Book of Dust Volume One is a story for our time, with themes that resonate with our world today. It is a story for everybody: a much longed-for treat for established fans of His Dark Materials as they meet Lyra Belacqua again and the chance for new readers to step into the magical world of Philip Pullman for the first time. Pullman is a master storyteller, and Lyra has established herself firmly as one of the most-loved characters in literature, a worthy contemporary of the likes of Hermione Granger (Harry Potter series), Jean Louise ‘Scout’ Finch (To Kill a Mockingbird) and Katniss Everdeen (The Hunger Games). In this book, she is joined by a new hero readers will love: an ordinary boy who steps up to the challenge of a lifetime.” Photo credit: Philip Pullman at a press conference held in Convocation House to launch his new novel La Belle Sauvage. © Ant Upton_Photocall Productions.
Graphic novel version of Pullman's His Dark Materials with stunning visual interpretation - will appeal to those who struggled with th length of Northern Lights.
June 2017 Book of the Month | A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month June 2017 Master story-teller Philip Pullman is as brilliantly creative in this gripping, multi-narrative graphic novel story as ever. In an adventure which both pays homage to the best-traditions of the past and dashes into the future so enabling it to give an interesting commentary on our own time, Pullman’s lively cast of characters travel through time and place. At the centre of the adventure is a mysterious ghost ship, the Mary Alice, crewed by men from all times including ancient Rome, the seventeenth century and the present. But someone in the present is desperate to get their hands on the boat and will stop at nothing to do so. When contemporary teenager Serena falls from the family yacht she is rescued by crew member John Blake. How can he evade the present day evil and return her safely to her family? Pullman’s brevity and storytelling power are superbly realised in Fred Fordham’s atmospheric and equally taut illustrations. With the sea at the heart of them all, they conjure up the different times and places of the several narratives and define the characters in them. The result is a delight of a book for readers of all ages. ~ Julia Eccleshare Philip Pullman says: “I wanted to do this because I love the comic form. You can do things in comics with great economy, swiftness, force and effect, and I just wanted to use those potentialities.” Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for June 2017 Aubrey and the Terrible Ladybirds by Horatio Clare Adventures of John Blake, The: Mystery of the Ghost Ship by Philip Pullman Axel Scheffler's Flip Flap Ocean by Axel Scheffler Maisy Goes to the Bookshop by Lucy Cousins Tender Earth by Sita Brahmachari Old Hat by Emily Gravett The Cow Who Fell to Earth by Nadia Shireen
Award-winning storyteller Philip Pullman’s gripping historical adventure stories for younger readers about the New Cut Gang are attractively published in this handsome hardback. Set in the streets of London in 1894 the two stories, 'Thunderbolt’s Waxwork' and 'The Glass-Fitter’s Ball', tell how the gang - Benny, Thunderbolt, Bridie and the Peretti twins – helped just a little by the famous detective Sexton Blake - get to the bottom of who is producing the counterfeit sixpences and tackle the silver that goes missing from the Worshipful Company of Gas Fitters.
Whitbread Book of the Year Award 2001 The third in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy. His ‘Dark Materials’, is the story of Lyra, a young girl with an exceptional destiny. Brought up in Jordan College, Oxford Lyra uncovers a secret about her mysterious guardian which leads to some dangerous questioning. It also marks the beginning of Lyra’s search for her friend Roger, a search that takes her to the ice kingdoms of the North where armoured bears rule. Lyra’s courage and stubborn determination lead her on this mission of incredible danger in this brilliant and imaginative story. It’s completely original and totally spellbinding; a true classic that will stand the test of time much in the way Tolkien’s famous work has done.
Winner of the 1995 CILIP Carnegie Medal Part one of Philip Pullman’s magnificent trilogy. His ‘Dark Materials’, is the story of Lyra, a young girl with an exceptional destiny. Brought up in Jordan College, Oxford Lyra uncovers a secret about her mysterious guardian which leads to some dangerous questioning. It also marks the beginning of Lyra’s search for her friend Roger, a search that takes her to the ice kingdoms of the North where armoured bears rule. Lyra’s courage and stubborn determination lead her on this mission of incredible danger in this brilliant and imaginative story. The author’s vivid imagination and vision is so spectacular and moving that it will leave you almost speechless with admiration and the amazingly diverse characters will be universally admired by all those who read about them. It’s completely original and totally spellbinding; a true classic that will stand the test of time much in the way Tolkien’s famous work has done. If we at Lovereading were to pick out our ‘winner of winners’ then it would be Northern Lights, the first in Pullman’s Dark Materials trilogy. (12+) Winner of the Carnegie of Carnegies in 2007 and Carnegie winner in 1995. Books in His Dark Materials Series: 1. Northern Lights 2. The Subtle Knife 3. The Amber Spyglass
The second in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy. His ‘Dark Materials’, is the story of Lyra, a young girl with an exceptional destiny. Brought up in Jordan College, Oxford Lyra uncovers a secret about her mysterious guardian which leads to some dangerous questioning. It also marks the beginning of Lyra’s search for her friend Roger, a search that takes her to the ice kingdoms of the North where armoured bears rule. Lyra’s courage and stubborn determination lead her on this mission of incredible danger in this brilliant and imaginative story. It’s completely original and totally spellbinding; a true classic that will stand the test of time much in the way Tolkien’s famous work has done.
Award-winning Philip Pullman has long treasured this feisty and magical story from The Arabian Nights. When the young Aladdin rubs a dirty old lamp a genie appears and offers the boy three wishes. Riches? Happiness? Excitement? Three wishes should bring Aladdin everything he wants. But, as he soon discovers, wishes are more complicated than they sound. Philip Pullman captures all the magic and excitement of this perennially popular story in his vivid retelling which is perfectly matched by Ian Beck’s illustrations. The result is a book to treasure.
In this beautiful book of classic fairy tales, award-winning author Philip Pullman has chosen his fifty favourite stories from the Brothers Grimm and presents them in a 'clear as water' retelling, in his unique and brilliant voice. These new versions show the adventures at their most lucid and engaging yet. Pullman's Grimm Tales of wicked wives, brave children and villainous kings will have you reading, reading aloud and rereading them for many years to come.
The three volumes of this award-winning trilogy are beautifully presented in this mighty single volume. Set in two parallel universes, the story of Lyra, a young orphan and her demon Pantalaimon begins in Oxford. Swept up in a dangerous plot against children, Lyra and Pantalaimon set off for the frozen north on a terrifying mission to save the children from their terrible fate. The subsequent volumes follows Lyra on her quest to discover more about the mysterious substance, Dust. One of the finest contemporary books, His Dark Materials enjoyed by adults as children alike.
5+ readers. Award-winning Philip Pullman has long treasured this feisty and magical story from The Arabian Nights. When the young Aladdin rubs a dirty old lamp a genie appears and offers the boy three wishes. Riches? Happiness? Excitement? Three wishes should bring Aladdin everything he wants. But, as he soon discovers, wishes are more complicated than they sound. Philip Pullman captures all the magic and excitement of this perennially popular story in his vivid retelling which is perfectly matched by Ian Beck’s illustrations. The result is a book to treasure. The Lovereading Comment: Ian Beck's lavish illustrations summon to mind the fantasy world of traditional folk tales transporting the reader right into the heart of Pullman's mesmerising and full-blooded retelling. Lots of jokes pay tribute to Aladdin’s hugely popular pantomime traditions and there are lavish embellishments to the familiar story of Aladdin, his mysterious ‘uncle’, the Jinnee and, of course, the magic lamp. All is told by Pullman in glorious tongue-rolling language that makes both the mystery and the magic strangely credible. This is a perfect gift which will captivate the entire family.
Award-winning storyteller Philip Pullman’s gripping historical adventure stories for younger readers about the New Cut Gang are attractively published in this handsome hardback. Set in the streets of London in 1894 the two stories, 'Thunderbolt’s Waxwork' and 'The Glass-Fitter’s Ball', tell how the gang - Benny, Thunderbolt, Bridie and the Peretti twins – helped just a little by the famous detective Sexton Blake - get to the bottom of who is producing the counterfeit sixpences and tackle the silver that goes missing from the Worshipful Company of Gas Fitters.
Four Tales brings together Clockwork, The Firework-Maker's Daughter, I was a Rat and The Scarecrow and His Servant; four stories that showcase Philip Pullman's unique imaginative talent. Drawing on the rich tradition of fairytales, the collection will amuse, engage, thrill and delight readers from 8 to 80, whether they are new to his writing or diehard fans.
A wonderful tale from a master storyteller, giving us, just as Lyra’s Oxford did, more extraordinary insight into the world of Pullman’s ‘Dark Materials’. This one tells the story of the very first meeting in the far frozen Arctic of two legends and friends from the trilogy, Lee Scoresby, the Texan balloonist, and Iorek Byrnison, the armoured bear. It’s a mesmerising episode with wonderfully page-turning qualities and written in just 100 pages and beautifully packaged too complete with a thrilling board game. This title is also availble on CD audio.
This is the CD audio version of the wonderful tale from the master storyteller, giving us, just as Lyra’s Oxford did, more extraordinary insight into the world of Pullman’s ‘Dark Materials’. This one tells the story of the very first meeting in the far frozen Arctic of two legends and friends from the trilogy, Lee Scoresby, the Texan balloonist, and Iorek Byrnison, the armoured bear. It’s a mesmerising episode with wonderfully page-turning qualities and written in just 100 pages and beautifully packaged too complete with a thrilling board game.
This stunning spoof melodrama relates the dramatic and scary tale of how the evil Count Karlstein strikes a bargain with the Demon Huntsman. The price of the bargain? His nieces, Lucy and Charlotte, who look as if they will be trapped forever. With his pack of howling hounds, the Demon Huntsman terrorises the villagers but luckily, all does not go smoothly and Count Karlstein is shown up as a fraud as comes to a satisfying bad end. ~ Julia Eccleshare Perfect for Reluctant Readers as well as keen readers. To view other titles we think are suitable for reluctant readers please click here.
This is a beguiling new episode from the universe of Philip Pullman's Dark Material trilogy, a story which opens in Oxford some two years after the conclusion of The Amber Spyglass. It's gripping and funny and is Pullman at his masterful best. With Lyra and her daemon happily back at Jordan College their peace is suddenly shattered when something requiring their help tumbles out of the sky. Before long however, it is clear that something is amiss. A perfect stocking filler this xmas and will keep anyone from 9 upwards gainfully amused early on xmas morning.
Winner of the Carnegie of Carnegies in 2007 and Carnegie winner in 1995. Part one of Philip Pullman’s magnificent trilogy. His ‘Dark Materials’, is the story of Lyra, a young girl with an exceptional destiny. Brought up in Jordan College, Oxford Lyra uncovers a secret about her mysterious guardian which leads to some dangerous questioning. It also marks the beginning of Lyra’s search for her friend Roger, a search that takes her to the ice kingdoms of the North where armoured bears rule. Lyra’s courage and stubborn determination lead her on this mission of incredible danger in this brilliant and imaginative story. The author’s vivid imagination and vision is so spectacular and moving that it will leave you almost speechless with admiration and the amazingly diverse characters will be universally admired by all those who read about them. It’s completely original and totally spellbinding; a true classic that will stand the test of time much in the way Tolkien’s famous work has done. If we at Lovereading were to pick out our ‘winner of winners’ then it would be Northern Lights, the first in Pullman’s Dark Materials trilogy. (12+)To find out more about this book CLICK HERE to visit the Carnegie Greenaway site
The film tie-in version. Part one of Philip Pullman’s magnificent trilogy. His ‘Dark Materials’, is the story of Lyra, a young girl with an exceptional destiny. Brought up in Jordan College, Oxford Lyra uncovers a secret about her mysterious guardian which leads to some dangerous questioning. It also marks the beginning of Lyra’s search for her friend Roger, a search that takes her to the ice kingdoms of the North where armoured bears rule. Lyra’s courage and stubborn determination lead her on this mission of incredible danger in this brilliant and imaginative story. It’s completely original and totally spellbinding; a true classic that will stand the test of time much in the way Tolkien’s famous work has done.
Film tie-in version. The third in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy. His ‘Dark Materials’, is the story of Lyra, a young girl with an exceptional destiny. Brought up in Jordan College, Oxford Lyra uncovers a secret about her mysterious guardian which leads to some dangerous questioning. It also marks the beginning of Lyra’s search for her friend Roger, a search that takes her to the ice kingdoms of the North where armoured bears rule. Lyra’s courage and stubborn determination lead her on this mission of incredible danger in this brilliant and imaginative story. It’s completely original and totally spellbinding; a true classic that will stand the test of time much in the way Tolkien’s famous work has done.
Film tie-in version. The second in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy. His ‘Dark Materials’, is the story of Lyra, a young girl with an exceptional destiny. Brought up in Jordan College, Oxford Lyra uncovers a secret about her mysterious guardian which leads to some dangerous questioning. It also marks the beginning of Lyra’s search for her friend Roger, a search that takes her to the ice kingdoms of the North where armoured bears rule. Lyra’s courage and stubborn determination lead her on this mission of incredible danger in this brilliant and imaginative story. It’s completely original and totally spellbinding; a true classic that will stand the test of time much in the way Tolkien’s famous work has done.
5-7 years. Sophy Williams’s painterly illustrations evoke a mysterious eastern past in rich tones of purple and emerald as an engrossing background to Philip Pullman’s equally full-blooded retelling. This is Pullman relishing storytelling. Lots of jokes pay tribute to Aladdin’s hugely popular pantomime traditions and there are lavish embellishments to the familiar story of Aladdin, his mysterious ‘uncle’, the Jinnee and, of course, the magic lamp. All is told by Pullman in glorious tongue-rolling language the makes both the mystery and the magic strangely credible.
Acclaimed author Philip Pullman turns his hand to a stunning and original story for younger readers. Who is Roger? He says he was a rat - and some of the time he behaves like a rat. But, he is also a small boy. Or, he could be the Monster of the sewers…Everyone has a view – including The Daily Scourge – who tells their own version in screaming newspaper headlines. There is just one person who really knows who Roger is. And she’s the princess…Cleverly, Pullman weaves together strands of story from different sources creating a fast-paced and multi-layered adventure. ~ Julia Eccleshare Perfect for Reluctant Readers as well as keen readers. To view other titles we think are suitable for reluctant readers please click here.
More than anything else in the world, Lila wants to be a Firework- Maker. But every Firework-Maker must make a perilous journey to face the terrifying Fire-Fiend! Can Lila possibly survive? Especially when she doesn't know she needs special protection to survive his flames...
Full of hilarious and likeable characters, this is a book that will be read over and over again. It’s one of those rare books with a confident magic and quality all of its own. Children will find Lila wonderfully inspirational for her determination in what she wants to do and achieve shines through.
Winner of the Carnegie of Carnegies in 2007 and Carnegie winner in 1995. Part one of Philip Pullman’s magnificent trilogy. His ‘Dark Materials’, is the story of Lyra, a young girl with an exceptional destiny. Brought up in Jordan College, Oxford Lyra uncovers a secret about her mysterious guardian which leads to some dangerous questioning. It also marks the beginning of Lyra’s search for her friend Roger, a search that takes her to the ice kingdoms of the North where armoured bears rule. Lyra’s courage and stubborn determination lead her on this mission of incredible danger in this brilliant and imaginative story. The author’s vivid imagination and vision is so spectacular and moving that it will leave you almost speechless with admiration and the amazingly diverse characters will be universally admired by all those who read about them. It’s completely original and totally spellbinding; a true classic that will stand the test of time much in the way Tolkien’s famous work has done. If we at Lovereading were to pick out our ‘winner of winners’ then it would be Northern Lights, the first in Pullman’s Dark Materials trilogy. (12+)To find out more about this book CLICK HERE to visit the Carnegie Greenaway site
The film tie-in version. Part one of Philip Pullman’s magnificent trilogy. His ‘Dark Materials’, is the story of Lyra, a young girl with an exceptional destiny. Brought up in Jordan College, Oxford Lyra uncovers a secret about her mysterious guardian which leads to some dangerous questioning. It also marks the beginning of Lyra’s search for her friend Roger, a search that takes her to the ice kingdoms of the North where armoured bears rule. Lyra’s courage and stubborn determination lead her on this mission of incredible danger in this brilliant and imaginative story. It’s completely original and totally spellbinding; a true classic that will stand the test of time much in the way Tolkien’s famous work has done.
Very hard to believe that this is the 25th anniversary of Philip Pullman’s ground-breaking fantasy, now getting legions of new fans through the BBC adaptation. Northern Lights not only won the Carnegie medal, but in 2007 was voted by the public as the Carnegie of Carnegies to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the medals. Then The Amber Spyglass, part three of His Dark Materials trilogy, of which Northern Lights is of course the first part, became the first ever children’s book to win, what was then, the Whitbread book of the year and so this series has become firmly established in the canon of children’s literature and a new edition like this is indeed a publishing event. Chris Wormell illustrated the covers of the two Book of Dust titles which extend the trilogy and also a recent rejacketing of His Dark Materials and so is a natural choice to undertake this huge challenge. His distinctive style of wood engraving and lino cut and the dark, yet vivid colour palette he employs are perfectly suited to this familiar, yet fantastical world created by Pullman – who has said how much he admires the work. Ranging from decorative chapter headings to full colour and monochrome vignettes to full page bleeds to double page spreads, the breath-taking images add great characterisation and drama to the story, making the reading journey even more immersive. A shared reading with a generation approaching the story for the first time will be an unforgettable reading event in a classroom or family context. I sincerely hope the partnership will extend to the next books in the trilogy- what a collection that would be!
A phenomenal bestselling author meets the most magical stories ever told, now in a beautiful clothbound classics edition In this stunningly designed book of classic fairy tales, award-winning author Philip Pullman has chosen his fifty favourite stories from the Brothers Grimm and presents them in a 'clear as water' retelling, in his unique and brilliant voice. These new versions show the adventures at their most lucid and engaging yet. Pullman's Grimm Tales of wicked wives, brave children and villainous kings will have you reading, reading aloud and rereading them for many years to come.
A story in the Arctic from the world of His Dark Materials and The Book of Dust by master storyteller, Philip Pullman and read by Olivia Colman. 'Lyra Silvertongue, you're very welcome . . . Yes, I know your new name. Serafina Pekkala told me everything about your exploits' Lyra and her daemon Pantalaimon have left the events of His Dark Materials far behind. In this snapshot of their forever-changed lives they return to the North to visit an old friend, where we will learn that things are not exactly as they seem . . . The perfect re-entry for fans of His Dark Materials and a wonderful companion to The Book of Dust, Serpentine is a brand-new special read for Pullman fans old and new. 'It's a stunning achievement, the universe Pullman has created and continues to build on' New York Times 'Pullman is an easeful storyteller and an intricate and inventive world-builder, and everything he has to write is worth reading' Telegraph
**Don't miss the second series of His Dark Materials on BBC One this November.** A brand new short story set in the world of His Dark Materials and The Book of Dust by master storyteller, Philip Pullman. Serpentine is a perfect gift for every Pullman fan, new and old. 'Lyra Silvertongue, you're very welcome . . . Yes, I know your new name. Serafina Pekkala told me everything about your exploits' Lyra and her daemon Pantalaimon have left the events of His Dark Materials far behind. In this snapshot of their forever-changed lives they return to the North to visit an old friend, where we will learn that things are not exactly as they seem . . . Illustrated throughout by Tom Duxbury, the perfect re-entry for fans of His Dark Materials and a wonderful companion to The Book of Dust.
December 2020 YA Book of the Month | Imparting wisdom from across two decades, Philip Pullman’s Dæmon Voices shares a generous banquet of thought-provoking insights into the art of story-telling and Pullman’s personal processes and passions. As the book’s editor, Simon Mason, writes in his introduction, Pullman is “interested in, above all, human nature, how we live and love and fight and betray and console one another. How we explain ourselves to ourselves,” and this all-encompassing ethos is reflected here, with essays covering everything from the responsibilities of the storyteller, how stories work, and authors’ intentions, to William Blake, Oliver Twist, and writing fantasy realistically. The tone is lively, ablaze with clear-sighted wit, no matter how complex the subject, with many pieces having been delivered at conferences. One of my personal favourites is “Let’s Write it in Red” which begins with an anecdote about a train journey during which the author witnessed children demonstrating the “two great principles of storytelling”. The first principle is that there are rules - among them stories must begin and have unity, and storytellers mustn’t be afraid of the obvious. Stories must have a destination too, and storytellers “must design the path so that it leads to the destination most surely, and with the maximum effect.” The second principle relates to form: “if the story is a path, then to follow it you have to ignore quite ruthlessly all the things that tempt you away from it. Your business as a storyteller is with the path, not the wood.” To these, Pullman adds a third - knowledge. Storytellers should “become more interested in your subject-matter than in the way you appear to others to be dealing with it.” With each of the 32 essays embodying these astute principles, Dæmon Voices is a trove of enlightenment, and entertaining to boot. Recommended for 16+ readers.
THE BOOK BEHIND THE BBC SERIES 'HIS DARK MATERIALS' - now with an official TV tie-in cover The second volume in Philip Pullman's incredible HIS DARK MATERIALS trilogy. First published in 1997, and acclaimed as a modern masterpiece, it won the UK's top awards for children's literature. What is he? A friend, or an enemy? He is a murderer. Will has just killed a man. He's on the run. His escape will take him far beyond his own world, to the eerie disquiet of a deserted city, and to a girl, Lyra. Her fate is strangely linked to his own, and together they must find the most powerful weapon in all the worlds... Now a thrilling and critcally-acclaimed BBC/HBO TV series starring James McAvoy, Lin Manuel-Miranda, Andrew Scott, Ruth Wilson and Dafen Keen
**Don't miss the second series of His Dark Materials on BBC One this November.** From the author of the phenomenal His Dark Materials comes the next chapter in the story of Lyra Silvertongue . . . Lyra is now studying at St Sophia's College, Oxford, with her daemon Pantalaimon. But, for the first time there are serious divisions between the two. Lyra is questioning everything she once held dear. Pan misses the impulsiveness of their youth. When an act of terrible violence breaks the peace of the Oxford night, Lyra and Pan's relationship reaches a crisis and they are drawn, far from home, into the dangerous factions of a world they had no idea existed. The Secret Commonwealth is truly a book for our times; a powerful adventure and a thought-provoking look at what it is to understand yourself and to grow up and make sense of the world around you. This is storytelling at its very best from one of our greatest writers. *Exclusive to the paperback edition, Chris Wormell's new original illustrations bring Lyra's world vividly to life.*
All three BBC radio dramatisations of the bestselling fantasy trilogy - plus bonus material A breathtaking epic spanning multiple worlds, His Dark Materials follows the adventures of Lyra Belacqua and Will Parry, two children catapulted into a life-or-death struggle to save the future of the Cosmos. In Northern Lights, 11-year-old Lyra discovers dark forces at work involving kidnapped children and a mysterious substance called 'Dust'. With her shape-shifting daemon, Pantalaimon, she leaves her Oxford college home and embarks on a dangerous journey to the frozen North, aided by armoured bears, Gyptians and a witch-queen... The Subtle Knife sees 12-year-old Will finding an opening into the haunted world of Cittagazze, where daemon-destroying Spectres roam. There he meets Lyra, and together they acquire the most powerful weapon in all the universes - an object many would kill to possess. In The Amber Spyglass, a colossal war is brewing in Heaven, and Lyra and Will have been separated. They must find each other and journey onward - even into the World of the Dead... These thrilling dramatisations feature an all-star cast, including Lulu Popplewell, Terence Stamp, Bill Paterson, Kenneth Cranham and Adrian Scarborough. Also included is a bonus documentary, World Book Club, in which Philip Pullman answers readers' questions about Northern Lights.
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