2017*1st* The Book of Dust volume 1 (La Belle Sauvage) - Philip Pullman(Chris Wormell illustration)David Fickling Books

"La Belle Sauvage" is the first book in Philip Pullman's "The Book of Dust" trilogy, which serves as both a prequel and a companion series to his highly acclaimed "His Dark Materials" trilogy. Published in 2017, "La Belle Sauvage" is set in the same universe and introduces new characters while expanding on the backstory of familiar ones.

### Plot Summary

The novel is set about a decade before the events of "Northern Lights" (known as "The Golden Compass" in North America). It follows the adventures of an eleven-year-old boy named Malcolm Polstead, who lives and works at his parents' inn, The Trout, near Oxford. Malcolm is curious and observant, with a strong sense of justice.

### Key Themes and Elements

1. **The Role of the Magisterium**:
- The oppressive religious organization known as the Magisterium plays a significant role, highlighting themes of authority, control, and resistance.

2. **Curiosity and Knowledge**:
- Malcolm’s natural curiosity leads him to discover a hidden baby, Lyra Belacqua, and learn about the mysterious organization called Oakley Street, which opposes the Magisterium.

3. **Adventure and Survival**:
- The story becomes a gripping adventure as Malcolm, along with a teenage girl named Alice, undertakes a perilous journey to protect baby Lyra from various threats. This journey is marked by a great flood, transforming the narrative into a tale of survival.

4. **Good vs. Evil**:
- The novel explores the classic theme of good versus evil, with Malcolm and his allies standing against the sinister forces of the Magisterium and other dark entities.

### Characters

- **Malcolm Polstead**: The protagonist, a resourceful and brave boy with a strong sense of right and wrong.
- **Alice Parslow**: A tough and resilient teenage girl who helps Malcolm protect Lyra.
- **Lyra Belacqua**: The infant who is central to the story and future protagonist of "His Dark Materials."
- **Lord Asriel**: Lyra’s father, whose actions have significant implications for the unfolding events.
- **Mrs. Coulter**: Lyra’s mother, a complex character with her own dark motivations.
- **Dr. Hannah Relf**: A scholar and member of Oakley Street, who provides Malcolm with crucial information and support.

### Impact and Reception

"La Belle Sauvage" was well-received by critics and fans of Pullman's earlier works. It was praised for its rich storytelling, engaging characters, and the seamless integration of new elements with the established lore of "His Dark Materials."

### Themes and Symbolism

- **Dust**: The enigmatic substance known as Dust continues to play a crucial role, symbolizing consciousness and the interplay between innocence and experience.
- **Daemons**: Representations of the human soul in animal form, daemons are a central aspect of Pullman's universe, reflecting characters' inner lives and moral choices.

### Conclusion

"La Belle Sauvage" successfully expands the world of "His Dark Materials," providing readers with a deeper understanding of the characters and events that shape the original trilogy. It combines elements of fantasy, adventure, and philosophical inquiry, making it a compelling read for both new readers and long-time fans of Pullman's work.