I was in middle school when the CIRQUE DU FREAK craze hit and I let it pass me by. However, a friend recommended the series to me recently, saying it influenced him a lot. So, I picked it up.

And, boy, do I have absolutely zero regrets.

This is amazing! Like, but seriously and really. The language is simple (and includes frequent explanation points), so it's obviously meant for a younger audience, but, hot damn, does a lot come across with those simple words. Here I was, an author, thinking I had to speak Shakespearean to convey anything, but the beauty, horror, and emotional connection that comes across Shan's pages are incredible.

Plus! The characters! Darren is a young boy, shockingly emotional mature, AND allowed to be emotional, the author having him cry at several points. In addition to being an excellent foil, Steve Leopard wants to Fight Everything, which reminds me a certain other star and stripe-y Steve. Annie is an on point little sister and I respect the heck out of her. Crepsley tries to come across as scary, but I can read between the lines to how he is an actual undead dork dad. Because who else sulks in the bushes for two weeks about a twelve year old who not only stole his spider, but is getting on really well with his spider. For a horror book, I laughed a lot.

I would recommend CIRQUE DU FREAK: A LIVING NIGHTMARE to everyone on the planet over age eight. I already have the second book and I'm so excited.