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The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman

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Brief synopsis (no spoilers)
Lyra Belacqua, like all humans, has a shape-shifting animal companion called a daemon always by her side. Her uncle, Lord Asriel, and a mysterious woman named Mrs. Coulter are at the center of a revolution involving the government, stolen children, witches and armored bears.

Category
YA Fiction

Why I chose this book
Controversy

My personal opinion (the review)
I heard a great deal about controversy when I considered reading this book, so I decided to read it for myself. A section of the Bible was changed. The Catholic church is accused of running the world. And original sin is touted as a major factor behind wars. So yeah, there's a bit of controversy. But really, let's keep our heads on tight. It's fiction
I liked the book, and I'm looking forward to more in the series. No bad language, it's well written, the story line moves well, and the characters aren't flat. I'm a fan.

Warnings
Language: none
Violence: some, but not graphic
"Adult" situations: none
Death: yes

Movie rating equivalent
PG

Protagonist description
Lyra is a child, but she's quite bright and resourceful

Point of view of story
Third, from the perspective of Lyra

Book length
Medium-long

Story flow
Excellent

Grammar and spelling issues
None

Character connection (no spoilers)
None in particular, looking forward to more from all

For series:
Independent or integral (stand-alone or back story dependent)
Unknown, so far

Series review as a whole
I've only read the first, but it was good enough to want to read more!

If you only have time for one, read: (which one)
Start at the beginning: Golden Compass

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