ISBN: 0-345-41337-7 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com
A satisfying and at times touching conclusion to the excellent trilogy, the novel features well-drawn and sympathetic protagonists, but shows weakness in its inventive but scattered world.
Reviewed by David on December 31, 2001
Genre: Fantasy (Multiple Worlds, Weird Science)
Synopsis: This novel is a sequel to The Golden Compass, in which Lyra, a young girl from an England subtly different from ours, gets involved in the machinations of a ruthless church, and the battle to harness magical and political power.
In thse second book, The Subtle Knife, Lyra's life becomes entwined with Will, a boy from our own world (or one just like it).
Now, the various factions in multiple worlds are heading for a major confrontation, one which will determine the fate of all intelligent life in the worlds. Few of them understand, however, the deadly danger that threatens all life, and fewer still can stop it.
Full Review: Pullman's invention continues to shine, with strange science, remarkable creatures and worlds. Unfortunately, this close to the end, the inventions continue to be scattered, and barely explored. In fact, while the characters remain well-drawn and involving, the basis for all magical and "scientific" events are becoming less consistent.
The closest parallel that this recalls is a fable, where new creatures and rules are invented to further the plot, without being explored in any detail. This becomes an increasing distraction for the reader looking for consistency and solidity in the world-building.
If read for the characters and their adventure, however, this book is exceptionally satisfying, providing emotional intensity, in moments full of fear, courage, love and loss.
Overall: 6.5; Plot: 5; Characters: 6; Style: 6; World-building: 5.5; Originality: 8;
Copyright date 2000, Ballantine Publishing Group (Del Rey), October 2001, Mass-market paperback, 465 pages
ISBN: 0-345-41337-7 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com