The Golden Compass

The characters in the story, Lord Asriel and his counterpart, Mrs. Coulter seek to control the time/space connection by collecting ‘dust’ from children. Through experiments and study, both scholars learn that the ‘dust’ or particles of energy found on children provides the necessary means to build a bridge between the world of northern England and the one visible through the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. The golden compass or alethiometer is a crucial tool in this quest because it provides the keys to unlocking the secrets of the universe and finding the point at which these two worlds meet.

The story centers around a golden compass or alethiometer, a tool quite different from the compasses we use to tell us what direction we are traveling in. In contrast, this compass doesn’t give a direction, but through its sophisticated symbols and codes, provides answers to profound questions and helps the possessor peer into the thoughts and actions of other people. This compass proves extremely helpful to Lyra Belacqua, who gains possession of the object through the Master of Jordan College before she goes north with a group of Gyptians or people who live in boats.The goal is to rescue her father, Lord Asriel and children who had been kidnapped by the “Gobblers”, or members of the General Oblation Board, which her mother, Mrs. Coulter.They form alliances with three key characters, the Witch Queen, Serafina Pekkala; Lee Scoresby, a Texan Aeronaut and owner of a hot air balloon; and Iorek Byrinson, an armored polar bear, to confront their foes. Along the way, they encounter challenges, including Lyra’s capture and rescue from Bolvangar. In the end, the forces of good trump evil as Lyra and her friend Roger escape the grasp of Mrs. Coulter and Lord Asriel, as they travel to another world.

Filled with  a mixture of suspense, adventure and fantasy, the author offers a compelling, colorful narrative. The relationship between human and animal characters seems natural and believable. Although the plot slowly developed, the ending proved to be a satisfying conclusion to a worthwhile read.