The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman captivates with its rich imagination and complex world-building, drawing praise for its compelling characters and intricate plot. Critics appreciate its exploration of deep themes but note moments of narrative pacing issues. Despite some controversy over its religious commentary, the novel remains a beloved staple of fantasy literature.

The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman captivates readers who relish intricate fantasy worlds, complex characters, and philosophical undertones. Ideal for fans of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series and C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia, it blends adventure with deep ethical questions, appealing to both young adults and mature readers.

In The Golden Compass, 11-year-old Lyra Belacqua, along with her dæmon Pantalaimon, travels from an alternate Oxford northward to find her friend Roger. With help from the gyptians, witches, and an armored bear named Iorek, Lyra uncovers sinister truths, confronts horrifying practices like dæmon-severing, and learns about other worlds and her own significance.

Fantastical / Adventurous / Mysterious / Suspenseful / Contemplative

- The Golden Compass is the first book in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy, and it was published under the title Northern Lights in the United Kingdom.
- The novel won the 1995 Carnegie Medal for Children's Literature, and in 2007, it was named the Carnegie of Carnegies, recognizing it as the best winner in the award's 70-year history.
- Lyra Belacqua, the main character, is accompanied by her dæmon, Pantalaimon, whose name is derived from the Greek word meaning "all-compassionate."

**Lyra Belacqua**  
An adventurous and sharp-witted 11-year-old girl raised among scholars at Oxford, known for her captivating curiosity and strong moral compass.

**Pantalaimon (Pan)**  
Lyra's dæmon, who constantly shifts forms and acts as her moral guide and companion, reflecting her deepest fears and strengths.

**Iorek Byrnison**  
An armored bear with a deep sense of duty and honor who aids Lyra and plays a significant role in the northern regions.

**Mrs. Coulter**  
A charismatic and intelligent woman with a sinister edge who is deeply intertwined with Lyra's journey.

**Lee Scoresby**  
A free-spirited Texan aeronaut with strong ties to Iorek, known for his sky balloon and pragmatic outlook.

**Lord John Faa**  
The wise and authoritative leader of the gyptians who aids Lyra with his measured counsel and protection.

**Farder Coram**  
An elder gyptian who assists Lyra with his wisdom and knowledge, particularly in using the alethiometer.

**Serafina Pekkala**  
A powerful and ancient witch with a goose daemon, who offers guidance and assistance to Lyra.

**Roger**  
Lyra's loyal childhood friend and playmate whose bond with her transcends their different social statuses at Oxford.

**Ma Costa**  
A nurturing gyptian woman and mother figure to Lyra who embodies strength and care within the gyptian community.

**Lord Asriel**  
A formidable explorer and researcher with intricate ties to Lyra, driven by ambitious pursuits beyond the ordinary.

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Part 1: “Oxford”

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

The Golden Compass Part 1, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 5-9

The Golden Compass Part 1, Chapters 5-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Bolvangar”

Part 2, Chapters 10-13

The Golden Compass Part 2, Chapters 10-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 14-17

The Golden Compass Part 2, Chapters 14-17 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Svalbard”

Part 3, Chapters 18-23

The Golden Compass Part 3, Chapters 18-23 Summary & Analysis

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