Big Books of 2026
Gemma asked this question about The Golden Compass (His Dark Materials, #1):
I've read a lot of reviews on this book, and some people say it's very christian, then other people say the author was an atheist. What would you say?
Trevor I saw the film - don't judge me! - and I found it was strongly anti-Christian.

The Magesterium seemed a mere straw man to me - a shallow representation…moreI saw the film - don't judge me! - and I found it was strongly anti-Christian.

The Magesterium seemed a mere straw man to me - a shallow representation of the church, any church as the bad guy - only built up to be knocked down again.

Personally I found the story interesting, but the anti-church preaching distracting.

I felt that Philip should had gotten on a soap box first, then cleared his heart and lungs of every anti-church sentiment he had been stewing over first, even if it took him days and days, and /then/ sat down to write a proper book second.

I have a problem with anyone of any flavour of belief or unbelief who pretends to sell me their book, song, comedy or whatever, but is really only using it as a Trojan Horse to try to smuggle in their own world view unawares.

If I want your world view, I will ask and politely listen.

But I didn't.

I just wanted a good story.

And the other thing, is that this is a child's book, essentially.

Adults can tell (or should be able to) tell the difference between fiction and propaganda.

Children may not have been introduced to the concept yet.

So while they think it's just a story, it is a little of a propaganda vehicle, too.

Which is, I think, a little unfair..
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The Golden Compass
by Philip Pullman
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