A very good precursor for kids who are going to read the Tolkien trilogy.

I enjoyed these but they aren't the most exiting or gripping novels arround

A classic in its own right. I agree with an earlier reviewer who described it as excellent for all ages. It's one of those books that has as much to offer as the reader is able to accept -- a book with many levels, many layers.

This is a truly wonderful series of books -- mystical in the way the Chronicles of Narnia is. The plot is somewhat reminiscent of the Harry Potter books, though the story and language are more sophisticated. Excellent for readers of all ages.