I think Lemony Snicket's books are so appealing because they appeal to a child's intelligence, instead of being cutesy fantasy stories where everything is perfect all the time.

I also love the fact that the Baudelaire orphans are smart, resourceful and interesting, and the fact that they get along so well with each other and that their difficult experiences make them appreciate and draw close to one another.

As a parent I appreciate how Handler helps a child understand some of the more difficult words he uses (and the fact that he uses difficult words in the first place) by defining them. I remember how frustrating it was as a kid to not exactly understand what a particular word in a book meant, but not wanting to interrupt the flow of the story (or my comfortable spot on the couch) in order to look it up.

I think the books are ideal for any child but especially for a homeschooled/unschooled child, as parents will actually enjoy reading the series and the books will encourage a lot of conversation around the varied subjects within.

Lemony Snicket does a great job of writing witty, smart books for children. He draws from dozens of other authors, and adults  will enjoy the literary connections he makes. Brett Helquist's illustrations add even more charm to the books. He has perfectly captured the Baudelaire children of our imaginations.

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