There is no possible way that this is a kids' book. It's full of politics, religion, stuff like particle and quantum physics, and it even hints at some sexual issues. And there's some pretty brutal violence! It's dark. It's very adult, in my opinion. I don't know why anybody would let a kid read this book or how a child could enjoy it. But i guess that's irrelevant. 
 I liked it, but i didn't love it. The ending of this book seems to be just the beginning of the story, though, and i liked it enough that i'm definitely going to have to keep reading the series. 
 But first i need a break. Continuing on with the Harry Potter series...