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Sunday, May 3, 2020

Review: The Secret Commonwealth

The Secret Commonwealth The Secret Commonwealth by Philip Pullman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Secret Commonwealth is the second book in the Book of Dust trilogy by Philip Pullman.  This trilogy is a continuation of the His Dark Materials trilogy.  If you liked His Dark Materials, you will want to read this trilogy too.  If you didn't read His Dark Materials, you could still pick up this trilogy, but you will not have all the background that is referenced.  Also, you will want to start with the first book in this trilogy.

Lyra Silvertongue and Pantalaimon are back!  As usual, they are bound for adventure.  This book was a tough read though because things are not all sunshine and rainbows.  Lyra is older now, and I feel like it is appropriate that she is learning harsh realities as an adult.  But boy were there times that I was really frightened for her and times that were very uncomfortable.

Philip Pullman isn't afraid to confront difficult issues, especially those surrounding religion.  If you are into philosophy, you can really sink your brain teeth into the issues he raises.  One of those, are daemons real?  Even though people can see them and interact with them, a popular author posits they aren't, and the theory is gaining popularity with young people.  What if he's right?  What will that mean for Lyra and Pantalaimon?  Can't wait for book three!

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