His Dark Materials — Philip Pullman

**His Dark Materials** trilogy (1995–2000) is the greatest fantasy for all ages: a Milton-influenced critique of institutional religion set across a multiverse featuring over 300 daemon iterations. Despite being one of the most banned series (#9 on the ALA's top 100 for 2020), it sold 17.5 million copies globally—30% more than **#5 The Wheel of Time's** early sales. Pullman's world-building remains more thematically daring than **#6 The Name of the Wind's** single-realm focus, exploring deep questions about consciousness and authority with universal appeal. Its ambition and cultural impact make it a landmark in children's literature and adult fantasy alike.