Another book off the bucket list, and I can certainly see why this series is so highly recommended. The movie, which was my first introduction to The Golden Compass, put me to sleep about 15 minutes in. I had zero hopes for this book. I am thrilled to have been wrong. From the first page I loved Lyra...she's curious, adventurous, intelligent, loyal. The fantasy world she lives in is original and fresh. What started out as an adventure has turned into an examination of good, evil, and the meaning of it all. I thought this was a children's book, going as far as to recommend it to my 11 year old, who is now currently listening to the audio. Some of the themes might be a bit above her, and the references to puberty might embarrass her, but she is a smart girl and this is a smart book. Starting Book 2 ASAP.