The Secret Commonwealth: The Book of Dust duplicate
#2 of 2 in The Book of Dust Series
What’s inside...
In The Secret Commonwealth, the second volume of Sir Philip Pullman's The Book of Dust, we follow Lyra Silvertongue, now twenty years old, and her daemon Pantalaimon. Set twenty years after La Belle Sauvage and seven years after His Dark Materials, Lyra and Pantalaimon navigate their changing relationship and are drawn into the dangerous factions of a new world. Alongside them is Malcolm, who has evolved from a boy with a mission to a man with a strong sense of duty. Together, they journey across Europe and Asia, chasing the mystery of the elusive Dust, exploring haunted cities, and uncovering secrets in deserts.
Discussion points
How do you think Lyra’s experiences shaped her beliefs about truth and trust?
What role do daemons play in shaping the identity of a person in the book?
Why is it important to question and explore the world around us, as shown through Lyra's journey?
How do characters in the story distinguish between right and wrong, and what does that teach us?
In what ways do the relationships in the book affect the decisions characters make?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences or feelings to deepen their connection with the characters.
Discuss the moral dilemmas faced by characters to help your child understand different perspectives and ethical considerations.
Highlight how curiosity and perseverance are portrayed in the book, and ask your child how these traits can be applied in their life.
Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of friendships and trust, emphasizing how relationships influence our decisions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of critical thinking
Explanation: In 'The Secret Commonwealth', the protagonist, Lyra, navigates a complex world where she must question deceptive appearances and discern the truth. Her journey underscores the need to critically analyze information instead of accepting things at face value.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by questioning the validity of information they encounter in daily life, fostering a habit of seeking truth and making informed decisions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Lyra faces numerous challenges and adversities throughout the book, displaying resilience and determination. Her ability to persist is a central theme that propels the narrative forward.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to persevere through their own difficulties, whether they are academic challenges or personal obstacles, teaching them the value of resilience.
Example Lesson: The significance of empathy
Explanation: Throughout 'The Secret Commonwealth', Lyra's interactions with diverse characters highlight the importance of understanding and empathizing with others' perspectives and hardships.
Real-World Application: Children learn to consider others' feelings and viewpoints, promoting a more inclusive and empathetic approach in their interactions with friends and family.
Example Lesson: The power of self-discovery
Explanation: As Lyra embarks on a journey that challenges her beliefs and understanding of her world, she learns more about her identity and capabilities, emphasizing the theme of self-discovery.
Real-World Application: This narrative can encourage children to explore their own passions and strengths, helping them build a strong sense of self and confidence in their abilities.