Well. It's got cool alien mysteries. I just hate being put in a child's perspective in an adult science fiction. More specifically, it is a stupid child's perspective. I understand the intent, I just don't care for it. The story itself is fine, even well written. Except for the fact that I don't think scientists would let their kids run around on an alien planet unsupervised. Especially one with a diverse alien ecosystem. Even if they had been there 8 years, I don't see it. And when death occurs, it's from drinking and driving.
*rolls eyes*
Since I just started book 7, I can see this is important knowledge to have for the series. So, you got to read it. You'll probably like it more than I did.