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Northern Lights

His Dark Materials, Book 1

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Northern Lights

By: Philip Pullman
Narrated by: Ruth Wilson
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About this listen

The definitive production of Northern Lights, narrated by Ruth Wilson, star of the major BBC series His Dark Materials.

“Without this child, we shall all die.”

Lyra Belacqua and her animal daemon live half-wild and carefree among scholars of Jordan College, Oxford.

The destiny that awaits her will take her to the frozen lands of the Arctic, where witch-clans reign and ice-bears fight.

Her extraordinary journey will have immeasurable consequences far beyond her own world…

First published in 1995, and acclaimed as a modern masterpiece, this first book in the series won the UK's top awards for children's literature, including the Carnegie Medal.

Ruth Wilson is an award-winning actress, best known for her roles in His Dark Materials, Luther, Mrs Wilson and The Affair. She won universal acclaim, and the BAFTA Cymru Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Mrs Coulter in the BBC adaptation of His Dark Materials.

Also available in His Dark Materials, read by Ruth Wilson.

The Subtle Knife.

The Amber Spyglass, which includes a bonus conversation between Ruth Wilson and Philip Pullman.

Brought to you by Penguin.

©1995 Philip Pullman (P)2024 Penguin Audio Classics Editors Select Literature & Fiction Science Fiction & Fantasy Witchcraft Magic Users

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Editorial Review

Revisiting a fantasy gateway
The His Dark Materials series occupies a special place in my fantasy origin story. It’s been years since I revisited the classic, but I’m now counting the days until I get to do so, starting with this new performance by Ruth Wilson, who so brilliantly embodies antagonist Ms. Coulter in the BBC adaptation. While the multicast performance will always have a place in my heart, I also believe there are countless ways to engage in your favourite fandoms, and I’m excited to hear what the acclaimed actress will do with the story. The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass will follow early next year –a perfect treat as we usher in the cold, dark magic of winter. — Sam D., Audible Editor

Most relevant  
My all time favourite book read by Ruth Wilson, with perfect pitch. A real treat.

Perfect narration

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I have read, and loved, these books over and over and listened to the original audio books but Ruth Wilson brings a new level of enjoyment. Really wonderful

So wonderful

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There is fantasy and there is fantasy. Sometimes it is thought-provoking, sometimes amusing, and sometimes just silly. This book by Philip Pullman is so original it takes the breath away.

I was tempted by the audiobook version narrated by Pullman, but Ruth Wilson is such a consummate actor, and her wonderful contralto voice is just transporting. I cannot recommend this version too highly, and await with impatience the next two books..

Beyond Brilliant!

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I am so pleased they have made an unabridged audio book instead of just the dramatisation. Ruth Wilson is the perfect narrator, thoroughly enjoyed.

finallly!!

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Ruth Wilson is so perfect reading this, she brought life to all the characters so well. Looking forward to listening to the subtle knife read by her too

Wonderful book & enchantingly read

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The story is fabulous, but Ruth Wilson's narration made it even better. I highly recommend listening to this version.

Wonderfully read

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Really captivating story, nothing bad to say…only the word AMBIENT was used way too many times 😣😣 this has not put me off listening to The Subtle Knife

Ambient?!?

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Genuinely fantastic book, that translates brilliantly to an audiobook. Ruth's reading pulls you in, and the story keeps your listening to chapter after chapter with no break.

Gripping throughout, appeals to all ages

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Ruth Wilson does a great job on the narration for this version. Great to revisit after all these years.

Best version

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