I must say, I picked this up thinking as they were aimed at younger readers they would be a easy and light reading - how wrong I was! Funke writes beautifully which captivates the reader into the world and the adventures of Meggie and her father, Mortimer, who discover when they read aloud the text of on the page comes to life - literally! The secrets which unfold around Meggie make her realise her talent and uncover her past, and the true about her parents. I must admit I was totally captivated by it all and thoroughly enjoyed this - I think it's quite a weighty book too for younger readers especially, but very worth the effort!