This series was a favorite as a kid. I grew up on the originals, but these started coming out when I was eleven, so I was the perfect age. A lot of my rating is probably nostalgia based because (at least in this first book) the writing isn't great and the characters are a bit flat. It's also a bit too simple and obvious at points. But at the end of the day, it's fun. I'd definitely give this one to kids, even if it's a bit dated. Reading it reminds me so much of my childhood and the fun I used to have, even if I wouldn't necessarily recommend it to most people.

I think if you're a Hardy Boys fan or if you have kids who are, definitely give these a try. They're a bit sillier and even more unrealistic than the originals, but I really loved returning to it.