Philip Pullman is the British author behind the His Dark Materials trilogy and the companion series The Book of Dust. This guide explains the correct book order, what is known about the next instalment, and how the two series fit together.
Pullman first introduced readers to Lyra Belacqua in 1995 with Northern Lights, a novel set in a world where human souls take the form of animal companions called dæmons. That book became the foundation of a fantasy saga that now spans two trilogies, several companion stories, and a BBC/HBO television adaptation.
The central question for many new readers is simple: which book comes first? The answer depends on whether you want to follow the original trilogy or begin with the later prequel series. This article lays out the full sequence, highlights the facts around the long-awaited third volume of The Book of Dust, and separates confirmed details from rumours.
What Is the Correct Order for Philip Pullman’s Books?
Philip Pullman’s main works are divided into two connected series. His Dark Materials is the original trilogy, while The Book of Dust is a later companion trilogy set in the same universe. A few shorter stories and picture books also fit into this world.
British author best known for the His Dark Materials trilogy and The Book of Dust series.
Includes Northern Lights (1995), The Subtle Knife (1997), The Amber Spyglass (2000), La Belle Sauvage (2017), and The Secret Commonwealth (2019).
Pullman is one of the most celebrated fantasy authors, with his works adapted for stage and television.
For new readers: begin with Northern Lights (His Dark Materials #1).
Key insights
- His Dark Materials is the original trilogy; The Book of Dust is a later companion trilogy set in the same universe.
- Northern Lights, published in 1995, is the first book in His Dark Materials and the starting point for most readers.
- The Book of Dust begins with La Belle Sauvage (2017), followed by The Secret Commonwealth (2019).
- Book of Dust 3 is in development, but no title or release date has been confirmed as of 2025.
- The Secret Commonwealth is Pullman’s most recent published novel.
- Companion stories such as Lyra’s Oxford and Serpentine add context around the main trilogies.
- Pullman’s works have been adapted into a BBC/HBO television series, a 2007 film, and a stage production.
| Book | Series | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Lights (The Golden Compass) | His Dark Materials #1 | 1995 | First novel |
| The Subtle Knife | His Dark Materials #2 | 1997 | |
| The Amber Spyglass | His Dark Materials #3 | 2000 | |
| La Belle Sauvage | The Book of Dust #1 | 2017 | Prequel set years before Northern Lights |
| The Secret Commonwealth | The Book of Dust #2 | 2019 | Most recent published novel |
| Once Upon a Time in the North | Companion | 2008 | Short story set in the same world |
| The Collectors | Companion | 2014 | Short story |
| Lyra’s Oxford | Companion | 2003 | Illustrated short story |
| Serpentine | Companion | 2020 | Short story |
Do I Need to Read His Dark Materials Before The Book of Dust?
The short answer is yes for most readers. The Book of Dust builds on characters and events introduced in His Dark Materials. Pullman has written the two series so that they complement each other, but the original trilogy provides the necessary foundation for key plot points.
The Original Trilogy
Northern Lights follows Lyra Belacqua in a parallel universe where human souls manifest as animal companions called dæmons, as she uncovers a plot involving Dust and missing children. The later volumes continue her journey across multiple worlds.
The Book of Dust Sequence
La Belle Sauvage and The Secret Commonwealth are set in the same universe and add a second central character, Malcolm. Pullman has described this series as a companion to His Dark Materials rather than a simple sequel.
Companion Books and Short Stories
Once Upon a Time in the North, The Collectors, Lyra’s Oxford, and Serpentine are shorter works set in the same world. They can be read after the main trilogies without affecting the core narrative.
If you only read one series, start with Northern Lights and continue through His Dark Materials. The Book of Dust is a rewarding follow-up, but it was written for readers who already know Lyra’s original story.
When Will Book of Dust 3 Be Released?
As of 2025, Pullman has confirmed he is writing the third volume of The Book of Dust, but no release date has been announced. The official Penguin Random House author page lists the first two volumes and notes that the third is in progress.
What Pullman has said
The author has described the book as the conclusion to the trilogy, but he has not offered a timetable. In earlier interviews, he indicated that the story was taking shape slowly and that he would not rush it.
What remains unconfirmed
No official title has been confirmed. Some online listings have suggested a title and a 2025 release, but these have not been verified by Pullman or his publisher. The date may slip, and the title may change before publication.
The publisher’s audiobook page lists the existing His Dark Materials and Book of Dust titles. No entry for a third Book of Dust volume has appeared there yet, reinforcing that the book remains unfinished.
What Is Philip Pullman’s Latest Book?
Pullman’s most recent published novel is The Secret Commonwealth, released in 2019. That book is the second volume of The Book of Dust and follows Lyra as an adult. Since then, Pullman has published short works and contributed to anthologies, but no full-length novel has appeared.
The absence of a new novel does not mean silence. Pullman has spoken publicly about the challenges of completing the third volume, and the BBC/HBO television adaptation has kept interest alive. A 2007 film adaptation of Northern Lights, titled The Golden Compass in the United States, also introduced the story to a wider audience.
Some readers mistake La Belle Sauvage for the start of a new standalone series. It is actually a prequel to His Dark Materials and should be read after the original trilogy for the fullest experience.
What Is the Publication Timeline for Pullman’s Major Works?
Pullman’s career in fantasy began in 1995 and has continued across four decades. The following list tracks the major book publications in order.
- 1995 – Northern Lights is published, later released as The Golden Compass in the United States.
- 1997 – The Subtle Knife, the second volume of His Dark Materials, appears.
- 2000 – The Amber Spyglass concludes the original trilogy.
- 2003 – Lyra’s Oxford, a companion story, is published.
- 2008 – Once Upon a Time in the North, a prequel short story, appears.
- 2014 – The Collectors, a short story, is released.
- 2017 – La Belle Sauvage begins The Book of Dust series.
- 2019 – The Secret Commonwealth continues Lyra’s story.
- 2020 – Serpentine, a short story, is published.
- 2024–2025 – Pullman confirms he is writing Book of Dust 3, but no title or release date has been announced.
What Do We Actually Know About Book of Dust 3?
Separating confirmed facts from rumour is important. The table below compares what is established with what remains unclear.
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Pullman is writing the third volume of The Book of Dust. | No official release date has been announced. |
| The Secret Commonwealth (2019) is the most recent full novel. | No confirmed title has been announced. |
| The book will conclude The Book of Dust trilogy, based on Pullman’s descriptions. | Whether it will conclude the larger story of Lyra and Malcolm is not publicly confirmed. |
| The publisher’s official site still lists the series as in development. | Some speculative listings have suggested a title and a 2025 release, but these are unverified. |
Who Is Philip Pullman and Why Does He Matter?
Born on 19 October 1946 in Norwich, England, Pullman became one of the most recognised names in fantasy literature. His Wikipedia biography documents a long career in children’s fiction.
The trilogy’s influence extends beyond book sales. Pullman is one of the most celebrated fantasy authors, with his works adapted for stage and television. The BBC/HBO series brought the story to a new generation and reinforced his place in contemporary fiction.
Readers interested in other authors who explore big ideas through fiction may want to explore the work of Mary Shelley – Biography, Works, and Enduring Legacy.
Which Sources Confirm the Details About Pullman’s Books?
The most reliable sources for Pullman’s bibliography are his publisher’s official pages and the author’s own statements. The Encyclopedia.com entry offers a neutral overview of his life and career, while Wikipedia provides a well-referenced list of works.
For reading order, dedicated fan and book-guide sites can be useful, though they may contain errors. The official Penguin Random House author page remains the safest first stop for publication details. Journalists covering the BBC/HBO adaptation have also confirmed production details through reliable broadcasting sources.
So, What’s the Takeaway for New Readers?
Start with Northern Lights, continue through The Amber Spyglass, and then move on to The Book of Dust if you want more of Lyra’s world. Book of Dust 3 will arrive when it is ready, and no amount of speculation will speed it up. For a lighter reading list from another popular British author, see Jojo Moyes – Books in Order, Movies, Husband & 2026 Release.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Golden Compass the same book as Northern Lights?
Yes. Northern Lights was published as The Golden Compass in the United States. It is the first volume of His Dark Materials.
Should I read La Belle Sauvage before His Dark Materials?
Most readers start with Northern Lights. La Belle Sauvage is a prequel to that trilogy, so it can be read after His Dark Materials without spoilers.
How many books are in His Dark Materials?
The original trilogy contains three books: Northern Lights, The Subtle Knife, and The Amber Spyglass. The Book of Dust adds two published novels and a forthcoming third.
Will there be a fourth Book of Dust book?
Pullman has described The Book of Dust as a trilogy. No fourth volume has been announced.
What is the best order for a first-time reader?
Start with Northern Lights, then The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass. After that, read La Belle Sauvage and The Secret Commonwealth. Companion stories can be read anytime.
Does the BBC/HBO series follow the books closely?
The television adaptation covers the main plot of His Dark Materials with some changes. It has been praised for its cast and visual effects.
Margaret Ellison is Editor-in-Chief at RegionalReport.co.uk, overseeing editorial policy, corrections, standards and publication decisions. She writes occasional leader columns and major regional news stories.