So much fun, gripping and fast paced once the plot begins to move (which is rather quickly since it's a children's book.) I'd say it's a little dark for a 9-12 but then again I enjoyed dark stories at that age, and this one isn't as bad as some books they make children read at school. I will definitely be reading the sequels - unlike other children's books, the premise and promise it gives at the end is enough to keep me interested for the next two novels.