His Dark Materials

Date Posted: 12.13.07

I have not updated in a while. I am keeping up with my list and I have read quite a few more books but I have not had time to sit and write about them. I want these entries to be more than just summaries and brief opinions but life gets in the way. I decided to write something today because of the commotion surrounding the Golden Compass.

I just read The Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass by Phillip Pullman. I read the Golden Compass because I wanted to go see the movie but I figured the book would be better so I read it first. After I saw the movie I read the remaining two books. Mostly, I just wanted to know what all the fuss was about.

I assumed that the Catholic church was overreacting and reading more into things than they should, They claim the book (and the movie by association) are an attack on Christianity. I have to agree that they are right.

I also have to say that I think Pullman had guts to write and publish this book. If I had children I would read it to them myself. The stories set the oppressive, controlling regime of Christianity and organized religion in general against free thinking, creativity and responsibility. Ultimately, free thinking and responsibility win out.

That is a powerful message and I think the world needs it.

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