This is a fantastic read--it's not for the prudish, because it's quite frank in its sexual talk, which makes it really refreshing. I don't think an American parent or teacher would want any kid younger than 13 or 14 to read it. You can find cheaper copies on Alibris--check it out. To be on the safe side get an Australian or UK edition of the book because book 2 (Lockie Leonard, Scumbuster) was severely edited to change the Australian slang for the American reader. Big mistake. Not sure about this one because I only have the Australian edition. The Aussie slang isn't that hard to figure out and it's a lot of the fun of reading the book. Highly recommended. If you're a fan of Tim Winton's books for adults, don't dismiss this one--it's every bit as good as his writing for adults.