When Philip Pullman's THE GOLDEN COMPASS (with unforgettable heroine Lyra) was released in 1996 as the first book in "His Dark Materials" trilogy, it captured the imaginations of thousands of readers around the world. When Knopf released THE SUBTLE KNIFE (the second book of the trilogy) in 1997, thousands were breathlessly waiting. They weren't disappointed.

THE SUBTLE KNIFE opens as 12-year-old William desperately searches for sanctuary --- a place where his befuddled mother will be safe without him. He knows he must flee from the danger descending upon them both. He knows that to find the answers he seeks and his missing father, he must search alone.

And alone he tumbles, until he meets Lyra and her demon Pantalaimon. Together, the young heroes traverse two worlds for Dust --- a mysterious phenomenon that seems to hold the key to resolution. Together, they face a force so sinister it has inspired an army of mortals, witches and beasts to unite against it.

Some elements of THE SUBTLE KNIFE will push the boundaries of the squeamish. For example, Will loses two fingers in his quest to attain "the Subtle Knife," a talisman and weapon that makes him a key player in the battle of good against evil. But Pullman's superior gift as a storyteller carries the reader past even the most grisly of topics.

THE SUBTLE KNIFE is a heart-stopping adventure, with a cliffhanger ending sure to leave Pullman fans aching for the third and final installment.

   --- Reviewed by Kelly Milner Halls