The Merchant of Death: The Pendragon Series, Book 1 (by D. J. MacHale)

I think this book is fantstic for kids about to go to middle school. I read it in the fifth grade, and I've been reading it ever since. It's a great way to get kids to read more. The plot is pretty fast-paced, keeping the reader's attention througout the story. It shows time and time again the importance of doing what's right, even if it doesn't always benefit you. There are other books in the series, but Merchant of Death is probably the most questionable for young readers along the lines of violence and language. There are a few greusome events in the book, but nothing too gut-wrenching. As for language, very mild curses are used, and as the story goes on, they become less and less frequent. This book appeals to many age groups, from early teens in middle school to adults in college. If you're unsure whether or not the book is a good choice to let your children read, try reading it yourself. It won't be a difficult task, I assure you. But over-all I believe that with the right children this book will open doors into the world of reading for a lifetime.