Philip Pullman's 'Northern Lights' (also known as 'The Golden Compass' in the United States) is the first in the 'His Dark Materials' trilogy. It introduces the reader to Lyra Belacqua, a mischievous, light-hearted young girl who lives in Jordan College, abandoned by her parents. Her only real company is her Dæmon, Pantalion, and her friend Roger. Lyra lives in Oxford, England and is half-educated by scholars there. However, it is an Oxford far different from our own. An Oxford on another universal plane. And it is threatened by a force more powerful than Lyra can imagine.

 

This entire series is wonderful, and 'Northern Lights' is a terrific introduction to the characters. A little more world-building would have perhaps made the initial part of the story easier to understand. As is, the reader is plunged into Lyra's Oxford as if we've been there all along, which can be somewhat jarring. However, once you've found your feet, you're well on your way to an epic tale that is both engaging and heart-wrenching; both beautiful and terrifying. Wonderfully written, 'Northern Lights' will leave you wanting more.