A daring girl, a mischievous daemon, armored bears, and a mysterious substance called Dust embark on a fate-altering adventure that intertwines parallel worlds, exposing dark secrets and igniting rebellion against oppressive forces.
Lyra's dæmon, Pantalaimon, can change into any animal he wishes until she reaches puberty, symbolizing her innocence and potential.
Philip Pullman, the author, chose Oxford as the setting because he attended Oxford University and was familiar with its historic and academic atmosphere.