Initially, one would not think that this book would be appealing to very many audiences. Darkness, giant talking rats who kill people, giant spiders, a princess who is mean...none of these descriptions liken to the typical idea of a "fun read". However, fun is exactly the word I would use to describe this fantasy world Suzanne Collins has created.
In addition to the scary creatures I listed above, Collins uses flying bats who exude nobility and bond with humans, exciting falls through space, sword fights, and an unlikely hero who often has to change the diaper of his precarious little sister (who is also very lovable).
A quest, a boy searching for his lost father, courage in the face of fear, and strong familial ties are all themes that run throughout despite a few parts in the book that are a little over-the-top. For instance: a young boy so adept at riding flying bats he reclines while he rides and has no need to hang on, and Gregor, who is a typical New York city boy, jumping into a boat and navigating rapids.
Despite this, and due to my own familiarity with some of the author's other works, I would feel confident in saying this is book one in a series that is sure to continue delivering a fun, although sometimes a bit unbelievable, adventurous read.
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