Having a tug with the lights out?

[Finless]

I am, of course, referring to the book His Dark Materials by Phillip Pullman and I would feel a little happier if it were written by a 'Pullgirl' but, I can't have everything, I suppose. Actually, if his ancestors had something to do with building train carriages then that wouldn't be such a disturbing thought ........ yes, I think I'll believe that from now on.

Anyway, has anyone else read the books? I have to say it is very good reading, if you like that sort of thing, although I did find the story a little contrived and a bit too over full of coincidence in the way that all things worked out in the first book? Nonetheless I am at page 520ish (out of 1013ish) since starting to read them on Wednesday. I was bought the trilogy in one volume which is bloody heavy and a real pain for my the wrists. Still, I'm developing a stranglers' strength of grip.

I think the basic plot with the dark materials and the Aurora Borealis is clever and I still don't know exactly what the Dust is yet (although I think it is about to be explained).

I have no problem recommending the book to anyone who likes 'the genre'.