Dark Matter

Shedding Light on Philip Pullman's Trilogy

By Tony Watkins

(paperback)

Product Details

Line: IVP Books
Length: 224 pages
Size: 5 1/2 x 8 1/4 inches
Binding: paperback
Published: March 2006

ISBN-10: 0-8308-3379-X
ISBN-13: 978-0-8308-3379-5
IVP Order Code: 3379

Related Subjects

Literature/Literary Criticism

"This is indeed a thinking fan's guide! Tony Watkins delves sympathetically and seriously into Pullman's fiction. He provides a readable and fun way into the theological and philosophical questions, while showing integrity toward the stories themselves."

"Dark Matter by Tony Watkins is the first to really go in depth into the more controversial issues raised by His Dark Materials. He looks at the series from the perspective of a Christian who deeply enjoyed His Dark Materials, and is willing to tackle some of the questions that Pullman raises. . . . Watkins has provided some excellent analysis that will be insightful to new readers and longtime fans alike. There are extensive footnotes throughout the text that are useful in following up on some of the information and quotes he uses, as well as an appendix on the science in the trilogy. . . . [Watkins] is successful in portraying both his enjoyment of the story as a whole and his respectful disagreement on a few issues which are all handled tactfully."

[In] the third section . . . Readers will find what theya re really looking for: a critical evaluation of major themes and story dimensions such as daemons, sin and the infamous "death of God"--an assessment that is smart and wisely restrained. Watkins's critical appreciation of Pullman's trilogy will surely appeal to a Christian audience, but will reach well beyond this market to a general readership looking for a solid, substantially sourced, and well-written analysis of this beloved work of literature.

Watkins has written a powerful analysis of the His Dark Materials trilogy, with insights into the author’s personal life. Watkins examines the individual works (The Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass; various publishers and editions) from both scientific and religious perspectives. Watkins’ research supports each section as he analyzes each of the three books.

Dark Matter by Tony Watkins is a fascinating book looking into the life and writings of author Philip Pullman, specifically his work His Dark Materials. I found the book to be quite thought provoking as both Pullman and Watkins make good arguments and statements about their beliefs. Watkins beautifully balances his praise and criticism of Pullman so as not to turn off his readers. I would recommend this book to anyone who has read His Dark Materials and enjoys thinking.