Reading this book is a roller coaster ride. it started with anticipation, then trudged on to boredom for sitting so long while waiting for it to begin. but when the ride actually starts, the excitement is back! it builds momentum, although it really takes time to get to the top. From there, the rush is unstoppable. 
 i loved how the author began with the unlikely hero :) i liked how even the adults bicker in such a childish way. i really liked how the reader's POV shift from one character to another. one minute it was Jenna, suddenly it was Boy 412. Even the message rat gets his share! 
 this is wizard world in its simplified form. cast a spell by just saying it: SPEAK! or FREEZE! something like that. i love it! 
 simon heap. one interesting character. he reminds me of Percy, Harry Potter's brother. the prefect. i'm watching you, simon. *evil grin* 
 and septimus heap. wow. building his character as the chapter moved along was amazing. from strict life, to suspicion, to loneliness, to acceptance, to faith. and finally to confidence. i am really looking forward for him to grow up. 
 i really enjoyed the last part where all those unanswered questions you had at the back of your mind were answered. no need to wait for book 2! 
 the verdict: i will complete this series! could've given in 5 stars but then i delayed my reading when i reached the middle of the book. it couldn't hold my attention on that part. but i'm glad i finished it!