You may also wish to look at XML::Simple is doing too much for me! Help please., XML::Simple "transforming data", and XML::Simple help for more on XML::Simple and its Keeproot, ForceArray, RootName, and NoAttr options (should you find it necessary to use in future), as well as on XML::LibXML.

These might also be helpful:

Perl-XML Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions about XML::Simple

HTH,