52/9: Northern Lights, by Philip Pullman

[maharetr]

I think the book's reputation precedes it for this one. I wanted to like it more than I actually did: female protagonist? atheism -- actual atheism -- as a starting point? Familiars that could talk and morph? It all sounded like a kink-hitter, but it all didn't quite work for me. It was at the very least a curious experience having a protagonist who I struggled to identify with, and I think, typing it out, that that's where most of my difficulties lay, despite the fact that the world was built well. Lyra was mostly someone inaccessible to me, particularly at the point where Pullman says: "Here she is, in the enemy's den, and she's totally calm because she lacks imagination and is certain that things will all work out fine." And I'm blinking and thinking: "okay, if she isn't concerned, why should I be?"

I felt a little stirring when she's standing in front of the Aurora, holding Pan and saying: "It's just us, together. Let's go!" and that's enough to make me pick up The Subtle Knife, and because I'm curious in spite of myself about how she'll view this 'new' world she's found herself in. (Plus, I bought all three in one hit, in very pretty covers. :))

Comments

[mr-booboo.livejournal.com]

Atheism is a selling point for you? I'm only asking out of curiosity because so much has been made out of the the "lack of God" in this book.

It has never occurred to me to read a book because of the religious/spiritual (or lack of) content. If there is a component in there, it doesn't bother me either. But I know it bothers quite a few people. Both sides. I know some in our group who do not watch or read stuff because the religious content is too much. It doesn't seem to bother me if it has to do with the plot of the book or the character involved.

I didn't enjoy Northern Lights or Golden Compass all that much. I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it either. It's definitely his characterisation. I don't particularly find Lyra likable. She's spoilt and bratty and lacks any real depth. I can deal with the spoilt and bratty, I couldn't deal with the lack of character development.