I grew up on these books. They inspired me to write and, no doubt, gave me my obsession with females who kick butt. I'll admit, reading this as an adult, I noticed that the writing seems geared more toward the young readers age group. However, Alanna does start this book off at the age of eleven and grows over the coming books. I've started rereading the second book and have already noticed a change in the writing style. Otherwise this is a really great series and I can't wait to re-experience it. 
 Recommended & All-Time Fave 
 Yes/No Checklist 
 Sex: No *Talked about 
 Gore: No 
 Rape: No 
 Magic: Yes 
 Drugs: Alcohol *Not consumed by main character 
 Star Categories 
 Romance: 
 N/A 
 Action: 4 Stars 
 Pacing: 4 Stars 
 Writing: 4 Stars 
 Plot: 5 Stars 
 Overall: 5 Stars 
 Protagonist Meter 
 Damsel-------*---Badass 
 What I love the most about this series is that the Alanna stands up for herself. She isn't a damsel and doesn't expect others to save her. She is her own person and will stand up for herself. I think we need more female leads like that.