Take it from an 18 year old who hasn't been able to put down these books in over 7 years, this series is well worth the read. Cirque du Freak sees the start of a young Darren Shan's adventure into the world of vampires. Although not my favourite of the series, it gives an incredible introduction to a storyline that's bigger than anyone (apart from Darren himself) could have imagined. Dark, witty and increasingly gory, this book will entice all who read it, unless there's something wrong with the part of your brain that perceives AWESOMENESS.
During the time since I bought these books, they have converted a non-reader (my older brother) and entertained an avid reader (my mum), so from both perspectives you just KNOW they're good.