The perfect second book in a perfect trilogy (The Subtle Knife - Philip Pullman)

Member Name: JohnC1977

Product:	The Subtle Knife - Philip Pullman
Date:	26/07/08 (2 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: A natural successor to "Northern Lights"

Disadvantages: A high point before the slight disappointment of volume 3

This is possibly my favourite in the "His Dark Materials" trilogy - I am not sure. I change my mind about that on a fairly regular basis. Sometimes I am more a "Northern Lights" man and sometimes it is the "Subtle Knife" that grabs me more. This continues on where "Northern Lights" finished off, changing perspectives for a little while to one of the alternative dimensions that are talked about but never revealed in "Northern Lights" - a place where people's souls don't exist as companions but instead within their bodies. Sound familiar? We are introduced to a fascinating new character who becomes more important in the final book and the fates of some familiar characters are revealed and, in some respects, sealed. An interesting way of opening up all the concepts of the first book without overwhelming the reader too much, "The Subtle Knife" is a must read for Philip Pullman fans. And I have decided, on writing this review that my current favourite of the trilogy is, in fact, this one. But who knows what tomorrow will bring?

Summary: Don't wait for them to make a film - get out and pick this book up