Once Upon a Time in the North (His Dark Materials) - Hardcover

"Exuberant, intelligent fun . . . Once again Pullman has created a work of art that is enchanting for a child but equally appealing to an adult" (Amanda Craig The Times)

"Tantalisingly short, irresistibly snappy and full of dangerous derring-do" (Independent)

"This is a real treat, and easily one of the publishing hightlights of the year that will be devoured by fans old and new" (The Bookseller)

"Small and elegant, the book is exquisitely illustrated with woodcuts by John Lawrence and rounded off with bits of memorabilia including a newspaper clipping giving a different spin on events plus a board game. Fast and powerful, this is an exciting read" (Anne Faundez Carousel)

"A short, simple, elegant story . . . cloth-bound, with enhancing woodcuts by master-engraver John Lawrence" (Claudia Fitzherbert Spectator)

When Lyra is studying at Oxford University, she comes across the story of Lee Scoresby and Iorek Byrnisson's first meeting, many years ago, along with much evidence of the adventure that brought them together.

When a young Texan balloonist, Lee Scoresby, comes down to earth in the harbour of an Arctic town in the North, little does he realise that he is about to be embroiled in an out-and-out political brawl.

Lee and his daemon, Hester, find themselves the target of political factions trying to take over the running (and oil) of the town. And also resident in the town are huge arctic bears, ignored and patronised by the people and treated like second-class citizens. When Lee and Iorek first meet, they cement a friendship that will continue throughout their lives, as the tensions and pressure in town lead to a deadly conclusion...

Another wonderful tale from a master story-teller, giving us more extraordinary insight into the world of His Dark Materials. Includes a thrilling board game!