This is a fun, longish fantasy with good storytelling and realistic characters. I loved the complicated relationship between apprentice and wizard, and wizard and wife, and how they were funny and realistically far from perfect. I did find myself rereading the last pages a few times to make sure I understood what was happening - I found it a bit confusing at that point. This would make a good read-aloud for younger kids who like action and don't mind a little bit of gruesomeness.