Excellent article, which pretty much hit the nail on the head as far as the “Golden Compass” movie. Like it or not, if an American company is going to make an expensive movie they had better be sure the story is one that is loved by Americans or star a big name actor in the top role. After all, the studios ARE in business to make money, not really to make US happy, unless there are enough of US to fill the coffers at the box office.

May 24, 2009 2:46 am | link

Am I the only one just a little tired of everyone referring to the series as “children’s books”? I mean, yes, I first read Northern Lights when I was 11, but the term children implies, to me, under 10 years old. These novels are vastly complex and are better categorized under “Young Adult”. There are almost more elements to be appreciated by adults than children in this series.

May 27, 2009 8:41 am | link

Agreed; but I think “young adult” isn’t a term that’s particularly well-used outside literary circle; “children’s book” is just journalistic shorthand.

May 27, 2009 9:54 am | link

At 60, I am certainly NOT a child OR a young adult. I agree with Brian on the category Young Adult. I read a lot of children’s and young adult literature, and this trilogy has been one of the best I have encountered. I wish that it had (or will) find a wider readership in the United States.

May 28, 2009 5:39 am | link