A refreshing change to the usual sweetness and light you find in many childrens books, this book takes a darker more morbid route while maintaining a slightly light hearted approach to the writing itself, with definitions and explanations of the obvious made along the way. Some have found this annoying and a little patronizing, for me however, it was Lemony's way of poking fun at more traditional childrens books which seriously treat their readers that way. Yes the story itself is saddening and every time there is a glimmer of hope or happiness it is quickly quashed by the actions of Count Olaf, but the bonds between the three Baudelaire children is beautifully written and adds that constant under current of hope that keeps the story flowing nicely just above utter despair. A brilliant book and I can't wait to read the rest of the series.

When the Baudelaire siblings are made orphaned their lives are turned upside down. Join them on their journey filled with despair as they navigate the world of secrets their parents left behind, starting with the abhorrent Count Olaf who is to be their new guardian. Although their lives have been changed (and not for the better) the bond the siblings have for one another is unparalleled and a highlight of this fantastically written and highly entertaining series.

I read this book back in primary school. I loved the entire series. Five stars from me.

I haven't read these books since I was young and I completely forgot all about them until a few months ago and now that there's news of Netflix creating a series based on these books, I felt that it was about time I gave them a re-read! I'm sure many of you have read this series many years ago and some of you may be like, "well I've heard of it but Harry Potter took over my life." Well, I think its about time you give these books a go and see what you're missing! The Bad Beginning is a fun quick read, yes I know it's a children's book but I am a big kid! The three Baudelaire children are whisked away to live with a distant relative they had never met or even heard of. Unkind and untrustworthy is Count Olaf and throughout this novel he causes havoc for the children who take matters into their own hands of looking after one another, as well as keeping hold of their fortune. Quite rightly this isn't a happy book as such because of the unfortunate events (see what I did there) that occur throughout, but there are some great funny moments that indeed do still make me laugh! Calling all kids and adults- there is no reason why you shouldn't enjoy this book. I can't wait to carry on with this much loved series and let it all come back to me!

i am lucky enough to own every book in the series in hardback which are now very rare. I read these books when i was alot younger and could never put them down, they were always so exciting and thrilling. i used to read a book in around 2-3 days sometimes less. i would but the next book in the series every week and could never wait to turn that first page and find out what happens after where the last book left off. i thoroughly recommend these books to anyone.