I admittedly have little XML experience, but ever since I discovered XML::Twig, I have used it exclusively for XML parsing (reading and modifying). Here are some reasons:

• It is a "Recommended CPAN Module" (http://www.perlfoundation.org/perl5/index.cgi?recommended_xml_modules)
• It has decent documentation and tutorials.
• The author is currently an active PerlMonk who is helpful and friendly.