His Dark Materials, Philip Pullman

An unusually thought-provoking fantasy trilogy based in an universe that could be the product of the imagination of an 11-year old with a masters degree in astrophysics and philosophy. Armoured-bears, conscious particles, witches, spirits, angels and many other sentient beings flutter in and out of a pacey narrative that tracks the adventures of Lyra, a tearaway child in the care of an Oxford college. Explores some of life's biggest questions in a compelling and highly-accessible story. Enjoyable read for adults and children alike. 8/10