Common Sense Media Review
Vampire horror series may hook reluctant readers.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 15 parent reviews
Based on 59 kid reviews
Kids say this series captivates young readers with its engaging narrative and unique take on vampires, often transforming reluctant readers into enthusiastic ones. While the books include elements of violence and gore that some find concerning, many parents and reviewers agree it's suitable for ages 10 and above, as the story's creativity and action keeps kids hooked from the first page to the last.
- engaging narrative
- suitable ages 10+
- reluctant readers hooked
- elements of violence
- creative twist on vampires
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Darren's best friend, Steve, finds a flier for an illegal freak show, which they sneak out one night to attend. Among acts such as a wolf-man (who bites off the hand of a woman in the audience) and a snake-boy, they see the vampire Mr. Crepsley and his trained poisonous spider. Darren is smitten with the spider and returns to steal her. When Steve is bitten by her, only Mr. Crepsley has an antidote to her poison. But there's a price, and Darren becomes a half vampire, learning the vampire ways, sometimes following the Cirque, and other times joining Mr. Crepsley on secret errands.
Is It Any Good?
Creepy thrills and chills abound in this series, which is not for the faint of heart but could hook reluctant readers. It may not be high art, but it's addictive.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why these books are appealing. Does the violence disturb you? Do you enjoy the fantasy?
What do you think about this take on the vampire legend? What's different from other books you've read or movies you've seen?
What do you think about Darren's struggle to avoid human blood?
Where do you think the "little people" came from?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Horror
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Little, Brown and Company
- Publication date : April 12, 2004
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 9 - 12
- Number of pages : 266
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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