47 pages • 1 hour read
Philip PullmanThe Golden Compass
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1995A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In The Golden Compass, 11-year-old Lyra Belacqua, along with her dæmon Pantalaimon, travels from an alternate Oxford northward to find her friend Roger. With help from the gyptians, witches, and an armored bear named Iorek, Lyra uncovers sinister truths, confronts horrifying practices like dæmon-severing, and learns about other worlds and her own significance.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman captivates with its rich imagination and complex world-building, drawing praise for its compelling characters and intricate plot. Critics appreciate its exploration of deep themes but note moments of narrative pacing issues. Despite some controversy over its religious commentary, the novel remains a beloved staple of fantasy literature.
Who Should Read The Golden Compass?
The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman captivates readers who relish intricate fantasy worlds, complex characters, and philosophical undertones. Ideal for fans of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series and C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia, it blends adventure with deep ethical questions, appealing to both young adults and mature readers.
RecommendedReading Age
10-14yearsLexile Level
930L