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La Belle Sauvage

The Book of Dust, Volume One

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La Belle Sauvage

By: Philip Pullman
Narrated by: Michael Sheen
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Brought to you by Penguin.

The British Book Awards Audiobook of the Year 2018
2019 CAMEO Book to Audio
Best Solo Narration - New York Festival Radio Awards
Shortlisted Best Audiobook Narrator - Audio Production Awards

Penguin presents the audio download edition of La Belle Sauvage by Philip Pullman, read by Michael Sheen.

Eleven-year-old Malcolm Polstead and his dæmon, Asta, live with his parents at the Trout Inn near Oxford. Across the River Thames (which Malcolm navigates often using his beloved canoe, a boat by the name of La Belle Sauvage) is the Godstow Priory where the nuns live. Malcolm learns they have a guest with them; a baby by the name of Lyra Belacqua . . .

"As a reader and a fan, I was hugely excited on hearing that Phillip was returning to the story of Lyra and Dust and challenging the Authority. And, as an actor, it was a true privilege to be asked to record La Belle Sauvage, the first book of this new work." Michael Sheen

"The best piece of narration I've ever heard" - The Bookseller

"Michael Sheen's narration of Philip Pullman's new novel is better than an army of voice actors his voice is impressive, from the crisp, definitive consonants of its higher registers to the rumbly bass notes Sheen summons when some menace enters the scene, to the vast, buttery expanse of his middle range." Slate

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This goes straight to the top of my all-time favourite audio books.

I looked forward to the start of Philip Pullman's second trilogy, chosing to listen instead of reading La Belle Sauvage. What an excellent decision. Michael Sheen elevated this captivating story of baby Lyra to a great drama. His delivery is exceptional. Each character has a voice. The performance is enthralling: so much energy and commitment. He brings to life the passions and fears of Malcolm and Alice as they struggle to protect baby Lyra. His horrific howling hyena stirs far more than the written word could. Please ensure he narrates the rest of the trilogy.

It's a very grown up children's book. Some reviewers have expressed concern that the sexual content and occasional strong language are inappropriate. Each incidence is relevant and valid for developing children as well as for us adult readers.

I'm looking forward to the story continuing with the adult Lyra. Meanwhile I'll reread His Dark Materials.

Extraordinary

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Amazing voice work, wonderful story. I love Philip Pullman, but I’m so very picky about voices for his characters - this met and surpassed my high standards! I now want to hear Michael Sheen read everything PP has written.

Excellent pairing of story and reader

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I already knew that I enjoy Philip Pullman's writing but I didn't expect Michael Sheen to be so utterly superb at reading it. I enjoyed Simon Russell Beale's performance on radio 4 but this is on another level. If you think you might enjoy the book but, like me, are cautious due to variable narration then don't hesitate. You will enjoy the story and Michael Sheen's reading.

Michael Sheen's performance is superb

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Like other reviewers have said, this is a book of two halves. I loved the first half, getting to know Mal in the Trout. Being in the world again with Daemons and wonderfully realised characters, it comes alive straight away. The second half, the adventure half, is a little bit too busy perhaps and it doesn’t always flow as naturally as the first trilogy. The transitions aren’t always clear or believable, and there is sense of just sort of going with the flow (get it?).

There is a part that is a carbon copy of a Bilbo moment from the Hobbit which is a bit cheeky. And there are several ‘that was a bloody lucky coincidence’ moments, which aren’t legitimately quantified.

However - it is an absolutely delight to be back in in this world. Memories of the delights of the first read through of HDM came flooding back straight away. This book is still awesome, the ideas and the magic are definitely still there. I fully enjoyed this book and I would absolutely recommend that you get this if you’re interested or if you enjoyed HDM. I am now revisiting the original trilogy, which I’m really excited for. Likewise, I’m looking forward to this trilogy to see where it takes us.

Finally Michael Sheen’s performance is outstanding, easily one of the best performances I’ve heard. What would your Daemon be?

It still has the magic...

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If you’re a fan of His Dark Materials; you’ve waited a long time. It was worth the wait. If you like fantasy novels but are new to Pullman; you’re in for a real treat. If you’re neither; give this a try for Sheen’s performance alone. You won’t regret it.

In an expertly-crafted, fast-moving and taut adventure thriller, Pullman’s emotive, visceral descriptions put you in right in the moment. Sheen elevates this with a richness that truly transports you.

Not only my book of the year but I’m struggling to think of a better voice performance. An absolute must listen.



Michael Sheen makes a brilliant story an unforgettable experience

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