I believe Snicket is indeed giving Rowling a run for her money! This book is truly the work of a highly intelligent and highly comical individual. Far from being evil or dangerous for kids, the book is inventive engaging, and happens to be a real page turner. The characters are far from flat and invoke sympathy or disgust. The children are loveable, especially Sunny, the biting baby. Sprinkled throughout the book are opportunities for children to not only witness an interesting story, but also opportunities to add new words to their vocabularies. Add to this the fact that the book s are not overly dense and long and you have the receipe for the perfect children's book. Important: This book can also be emjoyed immensely by adults.