His Dark Materials

Philip Pullman's 'His Dark Materials' is an acclaimed fantasy trilogy that follows Lyra Belacqua and Will Parry, two children from different parallel universes. They embark on a perilous quest involving talking dæmons, armored polar bears, and powerful witches, ultimately confronting a tyrannical religious authority. The series delves into complex themes of free will, destiny, original sin, and the nature of the soul, often in direct conversation with Milton's 'Paradise Lost'. While marketed as young adult, its philosophical depth and mature themes, including child experimentation, violence, and the death of beloved characters, make it suitable for mature middle schoolers and up. It's a thought-provoking, immersive read that sparks deep discussions about morality, power, and belief.