Book of Dust (NHB Modern Plays)

In Philip Pullman's The Book of Dust – La Belle Sauvage, two young people and their dæmons are on the run, facing powerful adversaries who conspire for mastery of Dust. Lyra Belacqua holds the fate of the future, and the stage adaptation by Bryony Lavery was first performed in December 2021 at the Bridge Theatre, London. The novel is set twelve years before the His Dark Materials trilogy and is praised for its imaginative plotting and high-octane adventure.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 09 December 2021
Publisher: Nick Hern Books

Two young individuals, accompanied by their dæmons, find themselves at the epicenter of a spine-chilling manhunt, with everything hanging in the balance. In their custody is a precious child named Lyra Belacqua, whose fate holds the key to shaping the future. As the waters surge around them, formidable adversaries vie for control over Dust, a substance with the potential to bring salvation or unleash infinite corruption. Set twelve years before the renowned His Dark Materials trilogy, Philip Pullman's The Book of Dust – La Belle Sauvage delves into a world of adventure, intricate plotting, and the extraordinary power of imagination.

Bryony Lavery's stage adaptation of this captivating novel was first presented at the Bridge Theatre in London in December 2021, under the direction of Nicholas Hytner, whose groundbreaking production of His Dark Materials at the National Theatre achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success. Philip Pullman, hailed as a visionary children's author, has the rare ability to shape generations' imaginations. The Times praises his novel as a high-octane adventure complemented by ingenious plotting, while the Guardian applauds Bryony Lavery's imaginative adaptation, preserving the wit and excitement of the original book.

As Lyra embarks on an extended journey in a canoe down a treacherously flooded Thames, she encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and secrets. Along the way, she uncovers a sinister plot that threatens the very fabric of reality itself. With danger lurking around every corner, Lyra must rely on her courage, intelligence, and the loyalty of her dæmons to navigate the treacherous waters and protect the future.

The Book of Dust – La Belle Sauvage is a testament to Philip Pullman's enduring legacy and Bryony Lavery's talent as a playwright. It offers a thrilling and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, the power of imagination, and the consequences of our choices. This captivating adaptation is a must-see for fans of His Dark Materials and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story that transports audiences to new worlds.

Weight: 156g
Dimension: 129 x 199 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839040306