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Demystifying the science of Pullman’s best selling children’s novels


* 4 December 2003 *

Demystifying the science of Pullman’s best selling children’s novels

A non-fiction book revealing the inner science of Philip Pullman's magical His Dark Materials trilogy has been released by University of Sussex husband and wife team John and Mary Gribbin.

Philip Pullmans writing has captivated a huge young audience and his fiction is sure to be on many children's wish-lists this Christmas. The new science book is an irresistible complement to the popular fantasy novels. In The Science of Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials, the Gribbins (both visiting fellows at the University of Sussex) interweave scientific truth with Pullman's captivating story. Pullman contributes an enthusiastic introduction to the work, which has his full approval.

The book is aimed at Pullman fans aged from 12 years and older. In simple language, it shows how string theory, spacetime, quantum physics and chaos theory form the framework for Lyra and Will's epic adventure. It seeks to explain the fun and creative facets of top-level science.

Dr Gribbin said: "We aim to give children an interest in science to show there is a purpose to all the hard study. If we can draw them in with the science of dark materials and parallel universes then we will see more interest in A-level physics in the years to come. We hope to provide the incentive to encourage people to be the innovative scientists of the future. Most importantly, this book is a great fun read. It also shows creative attributes are needed by top scientists and great storytellers alike."

Dr Gribbin is an internationally successful science writer and broadcaster, his award winning work includes In Search of Schrodinger's Cat. Mary Gribbin is an education specialist and is also a respected author of works for children and adults.

Dr John Gribbin will join Philip Pullman for a question and answer session at University College London on Sunday 7 December, 2.30 to 3.30pm. Tickets are available from the Charing Cross branch of Borders Bookshop 020 7836 9485, priced £5 adult and £3 children and concessions.




* Notes for editors *

Dr Gribbin will be available for interview week of December 8 to 12 2003

The Science of Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials is published by Hodder Children's Books, RRP £8.99

Press Office contacts:
Alix Macfarlane or Jacqui Bealing Tel: 01273 678888 or Fax: 01273 877456 A.Macfarlane@sussex.ac.uk or J.A.Bealing@sussex.ac.uk




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