When writing a novel, is it wise to switch from first-person to third-person? What is the most effective way to do this?

In a novel I've been writing, I begin by introducing a character and describing her history and personality from a third-person perspective.

Now, I want to start talking about a different character, who is in a different, but related circumstance, later in time. I plan to have their stories come together later in the novel. However, I want the reader to relate more to this character, and I want to have him give long, thoughtful, musings on his experience, to which I think a first-person perspective would be much better suited.

Is this a wise decision, what alternative options do I have? How would you recommend I best switch perspectives without confusing the reader? I also want to make it clear that I am changing perspectives and the new character was not narrating before, and is not familiar with the events of the previous part of the story.

It might also be helpful if you could point me in the direction of other novels where this sort of thing has worked before.