Even though I am older than 17, I really loved this series. At one point, I got so emotional over a section of the book that I began to cry and had to shut it for a breather. Many people claim that the book is anti-Christian, but personally I do not feel that is the case at all. It is intended to make children consider the ramifications of following anything blindly, whether it is a religion or a government. I would like to remind others that just because the author is atheist does not mean he hates Christianity. Atheism is simply not believing that there is a god. Also, the "god" killed in the series is not really a god, but rather a being falsely impersonating a god. That single point is critical to understand. I find it appalling that the majority of the people decrying the book have not even read it. If you have qualms over the book, read it before you give it to a child. The story is just as captivating for adults as it is for children.

Why would anyone ever say this is bad? You have to really already think it is bad and nitpick it honing in on something and warping it to fit how you see the book. Please if you have something to say, say it calmly. Don't just say one word or use all capitol letters. It's rather childish.I am christian if you must know.

This was my favourite book for years. A story every child should be exposed to.

NOTE: This series is NOT children's fiction! It has been classified as such in local libraries and bookstores, but please, please read it beforehand. I read this book because my librarian recommended it to me, seeing as I love fantasy. The story started off ok. It made me curious and I wanted to read more. Be that as it may, this book, as well as the rest of the trilogy, contains very mature themes that should NOT be written about for children. This book probably isn't as bad as the rest, but once children read this book, they will of course want to know how it all ends. The book runs along a theme of over-throwing God, the devil is exalted and apparently, we have misunderstood him. Go figure. There are severely damaging and graphic experiments made against young children including castration, female circumcision, as well as the separation of the body from it's soul, or 'daemon' in this case. The rest only gets worse, as in the third and final book, Lyra (the main character) and Will (major character) perform intercourse, being in the ages of 12-14. God is over-thrown, heaven is taken over and a republic is set up. I am not attacking freedom of speech, THIS series is. It is an attack on moral issues, even morals that secular parents who are not religious are careful about with their children. For me, this is an evil attack on God and on His followers. This author may say what he thinks, believe me, I am not attacking freedom of speech, but when he tries to wrap it up in a children's fiction novel, he crosses the line. Children should not be subject to such thinly-veiled propaganda, and such mature subject matter that should be dealt with by their parents or teachers, NOT by a story.

I honestly wish I could like this book, I really do. It's well written, fast-paced and imaginative. However, as someone has already stated, the religious issues are just too much. Pullman is a talented author, but he hates Christianity- you can tell in his other books, too. Parents will definitely want to think hard before letting kids read this book. I'd advise staying away. Although, on the bright side, if parents are concerned about 'religious issues' in Harry Potter, I'm sure they'll be more lenient after reading this.

In an interview the author has openly stated that he is an Atheist. This is NOT okay for all children. I suppose it could be appropriate for those with the same values, but I'm okay being the bad guy in my house with this book series (and forthcoming movie). Don't be afraid to be a parent, it's your job!

i was so horrified and just plain SHOCKED when i read this book because the author was so obvious with his biased hatred of christianity and God. i strongly advise not to read it, not to let anyone in your family or under your influence read it...i wanted to cry i because i couldnt believe someone would write something like this...the whole thing is about over throwing God and heaven, and that all He cares about is being an un-loving control freak. the devil is made to look like the good guy, and the main character is no role model herself. it was really weird, and one big thing that i think would have an influence on everyone, is the practice of the separating of people's souls! its a horrid book and so widely popular and influencial i give an extreme warning not to read it. i was repulsed.

It's a good story, but sometimes it's a bit obvious what's going to happen. Still, it didn't stop me from reading the second book (the subtle knife) which was much better.

I think this is a great book. Takes a while to warm up to because the beginning is slow. Once you get past that, you'll want to know more about Lyra and her quest.