My first impression of the book was that it seemed to be targeted for a younger audience. I didn't really enjoy this book as it didn't seem to have a story that urged me to keep reading. I felt that the book didn't live up to the standard of previous books written by Philip Pullman. The illustrations involved in the book were humorous and perhaps was the only good part of the book as it helped set a picture of the actual scene into my head.

The beginning of the book didn't amaze me and I felt that the rest of the book would be the same. Throughout the book there were occasional events that struck to my attention, however the plot just seemed to dither. Also towards the end of the book, the very last pages, it seemed as though no attempt was made to conclude what should happen.

Overall I didn't enjoy it and would not recommend it!