The Subtle Knife (His Dark Materials, Book 2)

Rating:
Summary: A little complicated, but still a superb sequel
Review: This was truly one of the best books I have ever read, not to mention the fact that it is the first trilogy I have read, but what a cliffhanger! It just made me more anxious for the third book to come out. When I first received "The Golden Compass", as a Christmas present, I thought it would be just another book to read when I got the chance. Boy, was I wrong! I was totally absorbed with the suspense of Lyra's escapes from danger and the way she used her sharp wit to get herself out of sticky situations. I just had to get the sequel! It didn't take me long to find it in a library and I continued the adventure. To be honest, I thought that, overall, "The Golden Compass" was slightly better than "The Subtle Knife", but it was a close comparison. "The Subtle Knife" was definitely more involved and more complicated, but at the same time it was a great follow-up. The first book told all about Lyra and her goals and adventures and the second book brought Will right up to that same level and each helped the other. "The Subtle Knife" also introduced more of the typical villian; instead of one main "bad guy", it gave the storyline a whole, wide area of concentration with multiple enemies. (For example, Lord Boreal, the kids in Cittigazze, etc.) However, the biggest disappointment for me was how so many characters ended up dying. I was also a little hesitant about the whole "war against God" idea, but maybe Pullman was showing that it's impossible to defeat or trick God and that Lord Asriel will just be trying in vain. (I'm thinking this could possibly be Pullman's angle for the next installment.) In any case, I am looking forward to what he has in store for all of the diehard fan! s of this trilogy. A few of my hopes for the grand finale are that Will finds Lyra, Lyra discovers the perplexing mystery of what Dust really is, and that we get to find out what King Iorek Byrnison has been up to all this time! In closing, kudos to Pullman and keep up the good work! END

Rating:
Summary: AN EXCELLENT, WILL-BE CLASSIC
Review: "The Subtle Knife," by Philip Pullman, is undoubtedly the BEST book I have read in years. The plot is a thouroughly enjoyable non-stop thriller through alternate worlds, that will leave you breathless and engrossed until the last page. I, myself, could not put the book down until I reached the final lines, and am now eagerly anticipating the arrival of Pullman's third volume of the sagga of Lyra Silvertoungue and Will Parry. The characters, every one believable and either endearing or despisable in their own way, seem as real after reading the book as they did when I was following them in their harrowing adventures to save themselves and the world (or rather, worlds). I, personally, have never read anything as marvelous and superior as "The Subtle Knife" and am heartily disappointed that there will be only three books. I am positive that this will become one of those classic novels that will be placed in the archives of human history alongside Tolkein's writings, and Twain's. I recomend this book for anyone who has ever read and enjoyed fantasy, or anyone who has not: it is a definite turn-on to the genre. I have one, and only one complaint about "The Sublte Knife" and its prequel, "The Golden Compass:" the third book is not yet out.

Rating:
Summary: A truly splediferous addition to his series!
Review: Subtle Knife is one of the most magnificent books ever written. Phil Pullman created this book with creativity and wonder, capturing the reader until they are finished, still craving more. The ending leaves you hanging, unlike The Golden Compass, and I was tempted to go out and purchase it that night! Unfortunately, it hasn't been released yet! I can't wait! However, no one should try reading this book if you haven't read The Golden Compass. You would certainly be lost!!

Rating:
Summary: Unbelievable! Could not have been better!
Review: While some may disagree with the religious views of this book(and so do I), it was still great. It was exciting and suspenseful. I read it in 3 days. I just couldn't put it down. One problem though, when is the next one going to be out?

Rating:
Summary: Thrilling!!! a big page turner!!!!!!!!!!!
Review: I can't express my feelings about this book! It's the best I've ever read! I bought "The Golden Compass through a book ordering program, and didn't even start reading it until a year later! Finally I did, and boy did I choose the right book! When I first saw "The Subtle Knife" I bought it with my own money in hardback (because it wasn't out in paperback) for 18 dollars! But I soon found that every penny was worth it. I loved the thrilling adventure of Lyra, Will, and her daemon Pantalaimon. I urge all to read this fantastic novel!

Rating:
Summary: The most engrossing trilogy I have ever read.
Review: Mr. Pullman is quite possibly the most gifted writer to ever walk the earth. His talent for words is incredibly. The finly woven characters in The Subtle Knife are exquisite. I believe that people will remember His Dark Materials as we remember Dickens or Twain. I know that some of you disagree with Mr. Pullmans religeos veiws in this book but he is doing what few writers have ever dared and you should appreciate it and not be so uptight.

Rating:
Summary: A great book, lacking the fantasy of 'the Golden Compass'
Review: I really enjoyed the book, but somehow 'Northern Lights' - Oops!- 'The Golden Compass' is generally more better. None the less, roll on the third edition.

Rating:
Summary: Even better than The Golden Compass
Review: The Subtle Knife is one of the best books I have ever read. It far surpasses the greatness of The Golden Compass. It hooks you in and won't let you put it down. I was only mad at one part and that is that I got to the end and didn't know what to do. I was so caught up in the story that I was sad to have to finally set it down. I WANT THE 3RD BOOK!!!

Rating:
Summary: For Mature Readers Only
Review: I read the Golden Compass and loved it however,this book is only for mature readers .I strongly question Pullman's reasons for being blasphemous.A war against God?It also contains some sexual undertones. Remember Sir Charles and Mrs.Coulter,Ruta Skadi and Lord Asriel?But I loved the characters especially Lyra and Will.It was overall a great book.I can't wait for the next one.

Rating:
Summary: The best by far.
Review: The Subtle Knife keeps you involved every inch of the journey that Lyra and Will experience. There are no words to describe how thrilled I am with this book. I am having withdraws until the next book is released.