| Book Title | The Subtle Knife |
| Series | His Dark Materials |
| Genre | Fantasy |
| Author | Philip Pullman |
| Publisher | Del Rey Books |
| Published | 1997 |
| Format | Mass Market Paperback |
| Condition | Good |
| Condition Notes | Good mass market paperback with moderate shelf wear, edge wear, and light corner creasing. The covers show rubbing and minor reading wear, while the binding appears solid and the pages remain secure. A clean, attractive reading copy. |
| Condition | Good |
Twelve-year-old Will Parry accidentally discovers a mysterious window into another world, where he encounters Lyra Belacqua. Together they search for Will’s missing father while fleeing deadly Specters, angels, witches, and powerful organizations that seek possession of the legendary Subtle Knife—a weapon capable of cutting openings between worlds and altering the fate of every universe.
EugeneBookStore Summary
The Subtle Knife expands the scope of His Dark Materials into a sweeping multiverse adventure. Philip Pullman deepens the philosophical themes introduced in The Golden Compass while delivering memorable characters, thrilling action, and imaginative world-building. Widely regarded as one of the trilogy’s finest installments, it masterfully balances adventure with profound questions about destiny, freedom, and sacrifice.
Collector Notes
As the second volume of His Dark Materials, The Subtle Knife remains highly sought after by readers assembling matching sets. Early Del Rey mass market editions featuring the original cover artwork remain popular among collectors. Complete trilogy sets continue to sell well, especially when all three volumes match in publisher and cover style.
Awards
Whitbread Children’s Book Award (1997)