‘Philip Pullman is a consummate storyteller who captivates the reader and effortlessly sweeps you into the incredible worlds he creates. I can’t wait to reunite with an adult Lyra and discover how she has changed, how the events of the initial trilogy have shaped her, and how she will carry on that spirit and fire.’ I can wholeheartedly say that Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials is one of these, and I can’t wait to see how Pullman continues to weave new threads into his epic in The Secret Commonwealth. Some fantasy worlds feel rich and heavy, like a brocade tapestry where every strand of story sings with life. Do you want them to be so thoroughly swept up in the magic of another world that they won’t want to go to bed? Give them… you know where I’m going with this. Do you want them to be brave and bold (but also thoughtful and considered)? Give them this series.

Do you want your child to have a keen-eyed sense of curiosity? Give them this series. As we watch children and teenagers boldly protest the lack of action by adults on climate change, I’m struck by how the spirit of rebellion and justice that animates this global movement is also stitched into the fabric of Pullman’s magical world and characters. ‘It feels fitting that we should be getting a new book set in the world of His Dark Materials this month. I can still summon up images of Malcolm, Alice and baby Lyra’s amazing boat trip – what an adventure, what an epic tale! I eagerly await the next book as I am sure Pullman will continue his story with a sure hand and a fierce intellect.’ ‘ La Belle Sauvage, the first volume of Philip Pullman’s The Book of Dust trilogy was a thrilling story, redolent of mystery and intrigue. In the lead-up to The Secret Commonwealth’s release next week, our booksellers share what they love best about Philip Pullman’s fantasy stories. Set ten years after His Dark Materials, The Secret Commonwealth follows the now adult Lyra and her dæmon Pan as they navigate new challenges and emotional territory.

In October, Philip Pullman continues the journey of Lyra Silvertongue in the second volume of The Book of Dust.

Philip pullman northern lights trilogy