Randomly downloaded The Golden Compass on audiobook today from the library. I've heard a lot about this series but I don't know a thing about it, except that there are polar bears (I remember that much from the movie trailer). But I know how influential this series is so I thought it'd be worth a shot. I've heard it compared to Narnia, at least in some ways. No idea how valid that is.
So I finished The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights outside of the US) on audiobook. Actually, I read the final third in hard copy because I checked the audiobook out from the library and wasn't able to re-check it out when it expired. All in all, I found it to be solid, but nothing more. I'm not sure if I'm going to continue with the series. Some Pros: 1. It's well written. 2. The audiobook is very well done. Uses a full cast to do each character. 3. Takes place in a world run by the church, which is an interesting concept. Some cons: 1. I just couldn't get that invested in the story. The premise of the book is centered around humans and their counterparts, called daemons, and the aurora borealis, which are theorized to be a portal to another universe and a center for a mysterious particle termed "Dust". While this premise sounds intriguing, the actual plot was a bit of a snooze for me. 2. It's a YA novel. It has adult themes and can be enjoyed by adults (similar to HP), but, at its heart, it's a YA novel. So I do not believe I'm the target audience. So, anyway, I'm not sure if I'll continue. If I do, it's not something I'll make a priority, at least at this time.
I’m 1/3rd done. Lacking motivation to read. RegimentML pretty much nailed my feelings. I was initially very interested, but the plot has me just kinda feeling... meh? It’s a super easy and fast read, but given I’m also reading The Stand right now, I’m just not motivated to finish it
Im on the fence on this one. The meh reviews and me not being a huge fantasy genre fan makes me not want to read it. However, the fact it's being turned into a show and it rustles evangelicals makes me really want to read it. I'll probably read it. Also, Ive never heard of "His Dark Materials" before but have heard The Golden Compass. They made it into a movie a few years ago, right?
His Dark Materials is the name of the series. The Golden Compass is the name of book one in North America (Northern Lights elsewhere).
Show thoughts for book readers: Spoiler very please so far; he casting is great. I’m not 100% stoked with them mixing in Subtle Knife plot points/big reveals in what’s essentially Northern Lights but I see why they’re doing it; most of the big reveals are identity based which is hard to do outside of text. I’m glad that we’re finally heading North in Episode Three