content: Sometimes the editorial reviews for these books, especially for the books for younger readers, are pretty idiosyncratic if not downright misleading. But the two reviews for this book are spot on, and you will get exactly what they describe. Which is great.Rowan pulls himself together in a convincing fashion. Adults are strong and/or weak in convincing and realistic ways. Magic is minimal and serves the larger story. The adventure is sure and well paced.The language and the concepts are appropriate for the age group. Length is good. The plotting is challenging but not too much for a young reader. The characters and their world are engaging.From the point of view of interest, reward, excitement, challenge and reading satisfaction I can't come up with a better series recommendation than this one. Just a very good, solid choice.