The Golden Compass (The Northern Lights)

"The Golden Compass," known as "The Northern Lights" in some regions, is the first book in Philip Pullman's "His Dark Materials" trilogy. Set in a parallel universe, it follows a young girl named Lyra Belacqua, who embarks on a journey to rescue her friend and uncover a sinister plot involving kidnapped children. In this world, humans are accompanied by animal companions called daemons, which are manifestations of their souls. The narrative explores themes of adventure, innocence, and the quest for knowledge, while also addressing complex philosophical and theological ideas. The story intertwines magic and science, captivating readers of all ages.