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Exploring the literary world of acclaimed author Philip Pullman


* 13 January 2004 *

Exploring the literary world of acclaimed author Philip Pullman

The life and major influences affecting Philip Pullman, creator of His Dark Materials series, are revealed in an easy-to-read book, Darkness Visible. The critique is written by University of Sussex psychology lecturer Nick Tucker.

Philip Pullman has gained respect from readers of all ages for his fantastic trilogy His Dark Materials. The series is a top-seller, recently dramatised for sell out performances at the National Theatre.

Mr Tucker's book, Darkness Visible, offers a discerning overview of Pullman's life and works. The book looks at the impact of Pullman's childhood of international travel, his father's death and later disillusionment with elements of formalised education. Tucker juxtaposes recurring key personal themes with the most important literary influences on Pullman, such as Milton, Blake and the Biblical creation story.

"Pullman's appeal crosses age divides and his work continues to grow in popularity," says Mr Tucker. "I hope Pullman enthusiasts will be intrigued to learn about how his life experiences provide inspiration for his stories. At the same time, many younger readers will never have encountered authors such as Milton and may not even know the story of the Garden of Eden. My book also offers a clear introduction to these works at a level of understanding accessible to the enquiring young mind."

Darkness Visible also follows Pullman's driving ambition to share his philosophy on life through all his published works. It offers an insight into Pullman's earlier writing, including the Sally Lockhart novels and I Was a Rat!, as well as the famous His Dark Materials.

Darkness Visible is aimed at readers aged from 12-years-old upwards and contains fascinating facts to keep Pullman fans of all ages hooked.




* Notes for editors *

Darkness Visible is published by Wizard Books, Paperback RRP £6.99

Mr Tucker lives in Lewes and is the author of five books about children, childhood and reading.

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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