Philip Pullman’s The Golden Compass (Northern Lights in the UK) is often compared to Harry Potter because both books offer an immersive fantasy world, a young protagonist discovering their destiny, and an epic battle between powerful forces. While The Golden Compass takes a more philosophical and thought-provoking approach, it shares many key elements that make Harry Potter such a beloved series. From a richly developed magical world to a courageous young hero, The Golden Compass is a must-read for those looking for another deep, character-driven fantasy filled with mystery, adventure, and magical intrigue.
Much like Harry, Lyra Belacqua is an orphan raised in an unusual setting—the grand halls of Jordan College in Oxford. At first, she is wild and free-spirited, unaware of the larger role she is destined to play in the world. However, as the story unfolds, she is thrust into a dangerous journey, where she learns that she has a greater purpose tied to an ancient prophecy.
Both Lyra and Harry are chosen heroes, though they don’t start out knowing it. Over time, they uncover hidden truths about their past, their abilities, and the greater cosmic forces at work. Their journeys of self-discovery make both books deeply compelling and filled with mystery and excitement.
Like Harry Potter, The Golden Compass presents readers with a fully realized, immersive fantasy world, but one that is slightly different from our own. Lyra’s world is both familiar and strange, filled with magical elements woven seamlessly into everyday life.
One of the most fascinating aspects of The Golden Compass is the concept of dæmons, animal companions that are physical manifestations of a person’s soul. This unique magical element adds a layer of wonder and depth to the world, much like the moving staircases, enchanted portraits, and spell-casting at Hogwarts.
Pullman’s world-building, like Rowling’s, is detailed, full of ancient mysteries, hidden organizations, and powerful magical artifacts. The depth of this setting makes it feel real and immersive, giving readers a sense that there is always more to explore beyond what is on the page.
Both Harry Potter and The Golden Compass explore a battle between good and evil, though Pullman’s story takes a more philosophical and political approach.
In Harry Potter, the battle is between Voldemort and the forces of good, with Harry standing as the symbol of resistance.
In The Golden Compass, the fight is against the Magisterium, a powerful and oppressive organization that seeks to control knowledge, free thought, and the nature of Dust.
Both books ask big questions about power, free will, and destiny, making them engaging for readers who love fantasy stories that go beyond just adventure and magic.
Much like Dumbledore guiding Harry, The Golden Compass features several mysterious and powerful mentor figures who help Lyra navigate the complexities of her journey.
Lord Asriel, Lyra’s enigmatic and ambitious uncle, drives the larger conflict with his pursuit of forbidden knowledge and Dust.
Mrs. Coulter, though initially charismatic and alluring, turns out to have dangerous and deceptive motivations, adding an element of intrigue similar to the hidden secrets of Hogwarts professors.
Throughout Harry Potter, secrets and hidden knowledge play a central role in Harry’s journey, much like Lyra’s quest to uncover the truth about Dust, the Magisterium, and her own destiny.
In Harry Potter, magical artifacts like the Invisibility Cloak, the Sorcerer’s Stone, and the Deathly Hallows hold deep significance to the overarching story. Similarly, The Golden Compass introduces the Alethiometer, a rare and mysterious device that reveals hidden truths to those who know how to interpret it.
Both books use powerful magical objects as central plot points, driving the mystery and adventure while giving the protagonist a unique ability that sets them apart from others.
Like Harry Potter, which begins in a small, contained setting (Privet Drive, Hogwarts) before expanding into a vast, magical world full of new locations and discoveries, The Golden Compass follows a similar structure.
Lyra’s journey begins in Oxford, but soon takes her on an adventure to the icy, enchanted lands of the North, where she meets armored polar bears, witches, and other fantastical beings. This expansion of the world mirrors how Harry’s world grows beyond Hogwarts into places like Diagon Alley, the Ministry of Magic, and the Forbidden Forest.
Both books give readers a sense of discovery, unfolding a world that becomes larger and more complex with every chapter.
Like Harry Potter, The Golden Compass is written for young readers but has themes, symbolism, and emotional depth that make it captivating for adults as well.
Both books explore coming-of-age struggles, moral dilemmas, and the power of choice.
They deal with loss, betrayal, and the importance of standing up for what is right.
They contain moments of wonder, humor, and excitement, balanced with darker, more thought-provoking themes.
This ability to captivate both young and older readers is what makes both books enduring fantasy classics.
Just like Harry, Ron, and Hermione’s friendship in Harry Potter, Sophie and Agatha’s friendship is at the core of The School for Good and Evil.
Sophie and Agatha are best friends who are polar opposites, much like Harry and Hermione’s contrasting personalities.
Their loyalty is tested as they face challenges that force them to question their identities and their friendship.
The emotional depth of their bond—filled with moments of trust, betrayal, and redemption—makes their dynamic as compelling as Harry’s friendships in Hogwarts.
If you loved the friendship-driven storytelling of Harry Potter, you’ll be drawn to Sophie and Agatha’s evolving relationship.
Like Harry, Lyra forms deep friendships that help her on her journey.
Pantalaimon, her dæmon, is her constant companion, much like Hedwig is for Harry.
Iorek Byrnison, the armored bear, becomes one of her most powerful allies, similar to Hagrid’s unwavering support for Harry.
Her friendship with Lee Scoresby, the aeronaut, brings moments of humor and warmth, much like Harry’s bond with Ron and Hermione.
Lyra, like Harry, is brave, rebellious, and willing to risk everything to fight for what’s right, making her a compelling protagonist for readers who love heroes who defy expectations.
While The Golden Compass has a more philosophical and intellectual approach to fantasy, it shares many of the same elements that made Harry Potter a global phenomenon. Both books introduce readers to a vast, magical world hidden beneath the surface, feature a young hero stepping into their destiny, and explore themes of power, free will, and friendship.
For fans of Harry Potter looking for a story that offers deep world-building, a compelling protagonist, magical intrigue, and a battle against a dark, oppressive force, The Golden Compass is the perfect next adventure.