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 - Great seriesHis Dark Materials is a really good series of books. I've never been much for fantasy, nor have I read a lot of children's books. Harry Potter looks boring, so I've stayed away. My draw to these books started with a an e-mail forward last Christmas, one of those alarmist e-mails trying to convince me to boycott the movie due to its "atheist themes."...I wanted to see what all the controversy was about, what could rile up the e-mail mob. Pullman's story is fascinating. Yes, his story does challenge authoritarianism and dogma. He does so in a way that not only entertains, but provokes thoughts, forcing the reader to challenge his beliefs on human nature. The story isn't necessarily anti-God, as much as it deconstructs the mythology we've created around the worship of God. This theme isn't in any way heavy handed...the story is also one of two children growing up and developing their own worldview. Despite all the symbolism and controversy, these are 3 very good books that were fun to read. Rating: - Imaginative fantasyThis is one of the most original fantasies I have read in a long time. I found it a good read. The first book is by far the best of the three. However, I think parents should read them first before deciding to give them to their children. These are very dark stories. The first book alone includes murder, attempted murder, kidnapping, torture, and betrayal. It is hard to know who is the good guy, and who is the villain. It is also openly anti-church (not that I had a problem with that, but some people might). It is interesting that Pullman, an atheist, has written a trilogy that is actually profoundly spiritual. The positive themes (yes, there are some) include friendship, loyalty, honor, cleaning up messes ( both the ones you have made and those of others ), keeping your word, and generally trying to do the right thing. Pullman presents a different concept of "soul" than has previously been explored. All in all this is a thought-provoking work, and worth the read, but I would say NOT suitable for younger children. Rating: - Great books!I loved Pullman's "His dark materials" trilogy , that's why I bought it as a gift. Rating: - Escape to another worldPhillip Pullman's Dark Materials Trilogy is nice recreational reading. It helps clear the mine from all the routine stuff that we all face every day. Rating: - "His Dark Materials" by Philip PullmanThe set of books by Philip Pullman arrived in excellent condition in their own display box. Thank you Amazon.com for your wonderful work.
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