Another re-read, but definitely an enjoyable one. Pullman really hits his stride with this trilogy in The Subtle Knife, and begins more effectively tying in his themes and pulling at the emotions and loyalties of the reader. I also love the way that Lyra grows in the books. The changes are very subtle, and you hardly notice as she turns from a girl who cares only for her own adventures and desires into someone who sees a bigger picture and wants to do all she can to help others. This is the way that character growth should be handled -- there is not one eureka moment, but several little things that add up to a change in outlook or demeanour.