Discovering the Golden Compass: A Guide to Philip Pullman's Dark Materials

by George Beahm

This accessible, illustrated guide is the only passport you'll need to Philip Pullman's imaginative world of His Dark Materials. Written especially for newcomers, Discovering The Golden Compass tells... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1571745068
• ISBN13: 9781571745064
• Release Date: September 2007
• Publisher: Hampton Roads Publishing Company
• Length: 206 Pages
• Weight: 0.90 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 8.8"
• Age Range: 12 to 17 years
• Grade Range: Grades 7 to 12

Customer Reviews

Discovering George Beahm

George Beahm has written the definitive book about "His Dark Materials". A must-have companion to Philip Pullman's series, it is full of everything you ever needed to know about the series and the author, as well as lovely illustrations and photographs. I highly recommend it for fans of "His Dark Materials" or anyone interested in Philip Pullman and his works.

Not Just An Introduction....

I found George Beahm's book to be not only an excellent introductory guide but also very useful as a study aide. About two years ago I happened to overhear a part of an audio tape my daughter was listening to. As I paused to listen I instantly became intrigued. The audio book was "Northern Lights" by Philip Pullman My daughter graciously agreed to start the tape again and we all (mom and 2 children) began the journey together into the world of Philip Pullman. The journey is a deep, multi-coloured and thought provoking one to be sure....as a person who has taken on the task of homeschooling my kids I recognize a huge potential for learning by way of study and reflection and this is where we get to the importance and influence of George Beahm's book..."Discovering The Golden Compass" It has proven to be a wonderful source of fact and information...with a host of references, photos, links, that the kids have found quite helpful in their studies of Pullman's books. So yes, this book will most certainly prove to be invaluable to those who want an introduction to "The Golden Compass" and the rest of the trilogy before seeing the movie, but it also has more to give....for educators and students who wish to delve a little deeper...... The artwork of Tim Kirk's is also to be commended for living up to our imaginations....one of the kids mentioned that "Yes, that is JUST what I imagined Lyra to look like! "....

a friends companion...

george beahms book was a terrific companion to the dark materials series. not being much of a book reader i was drawn in by the many ilustrations and photos.Both george and tim kirk have together guided us through the worlds created by phillip pullman. i could not see reading the dark materials books without this book.. they both go hand in hand. Discovering the Golden Compass: A Guide to Philip Pullman's Dark Materials

Another great book from George Beahm!

George Beahm writes lucid, entertaining and thoughtful books; and this one is no exception. As with his guides to Harry Potter and Narnia, I greatly enjoyed Beahm's tour through Pullman's world. I have read the Pullman books and loved the first two, but rather lost my enthusiasm in the third. Beahm's book refired my interest! I especially enjoyed reading some of Pullman's own comments about his life and his philosophy. This has inspired me to go back to the books and reconsider some of the ideas Pullman puts forward. The book will also be a terrific guide for anyone who wants to see the movie of 'The Golden Compass' but who has not yet read the books. Beahm's pointers will make sure that you don't get lost! The added wonders in this book are the marvellous Tim Kirk illustrations; gorgeous works of art which will be savoured by all fantasty fans. There are also some beautiful photographs of Oxford. All in all, this is a very enjoyable read, and is also fun simply to leaf through and enjoy the pictures! Well worth adding to your collection!

Excellent fun! And a lovely book as well -

I first became familiar with George Beahm's work through his engaging books on the Harry Potter universe. His newest book, Discovering the Golden Compass: A Guide to Philip Pullman's Dark Materials, proves a wonderful combination of information and resources regarding Philip Pullman's beloved novels. Beahm's book speaks to both those who are devotees of the series and those who are new to the books. His non-spoiler policy assures that the storyline will not be ruined for those who have yet to finish the series. Vivid descriptions of the main characters and concepts, as well as Beahm's detailing of Pullman's inspirations for the books, further invite the reader to appreciate the series' unique vision. The design, layout and organization of the book are lovely as well; the reader will appreciate the look and feel of Discovering. Additional strengths include the inclusion of Pullman's autobiography, which adds a special weight to the book given that he involved himself with the project (which is often not the case with literary guides). A lovely color photo collection detailing Pullman's Oxford and fantastic artwork by Tim Kirk also add excellent visual components. Kirk also contributes his own statement regarding his design process as he worked to visualize, and thus provide his own interpretations of Pullman's world. In some respects, Discovering is a collaborative effort, with Beahm as the primary author and researcher. This shared expertise only strengthens the book. Insightful, respectful of the material, and true to Pullman's vision and message, Discovering the Golden Compass is an excellent addition to any fan's library.