To have the imagination to construct a universe like the one Lyra lives in, with such detail, is a talent on Pullman has. I highly recommend this book, the way Pullman writes is highly enticing, his characters flawed and relatable. He not only is the gateway to a universe of magic, mayhem and mystery, he helps children up their vocabulary and understand different writing styles. Lyra is a very admirable character, not the typical 'Nancy Drew' but a stubborn, strong girl. With the help of Pan, she enters the other side of the world she knew, the darker more mysterious side. This entrance to a tabooer part of the world also helps children understand that like is not always like Disney says. I've had to say though that the HBO drama on this book is NOT ACCURATE. Read the book first.