Lyra's Oxford

In Lyra's Oxford, Lyra and Pantalaimon face new challenges as they encounter a witch's daemon with urgent news about a spreading sickness.

Set two years after the events of Lyra's Oxford, the narrative begins with Lyra and her daemon, Pantalaimon, perched on the roof of Jordan College, observing the bustling streets of Oxford. Their moment of tranquility is abruptly interrupted by a swarm of aggressive starlings, which are attacking another bird. As they soon discover, this bird is a witch's daemon, carrying urgent news about a dire sickness that is spreading in the North. The daemon insists that only Lyra possesses the ability to assist him, leaving her to question whether he is a genuine ally or a hidden adversary.

The story unfolds with a blend of adventure and intrigue, as Lyra is drawn into a new challenge that tests her courage and resolve. The beautifully crafted illustrations by John Lawrence enhance the storytelling, bringing the world of Lyra's Oxford to life in vivid detail. The narrative not only features a compelling plot but also includes various elements that may connect with future tales in the His Dark Materials universe.

Moreover, Lyra's Oxford is more than just a standalone story; it contains additional materials such as an excerpt from Pullman’s second short story, Once Upon a Time in the North, along with a map and other intriguing artifacts that seem to bridge Lyra’s world with our own. This enchanting blend of text and illustration invites readers to immerse themselves in a richly imagined universe, making it a delightful read for fans of the series.