The Crones is a fun tale of hope in the dark days of life. Doe Belly, the villan is fun and also a little scary for younger children. This book is not for the faint of heart. The right age is 8-12 pre school and kindergarten may be frightened by the dark imagery. The book is wonderfully written and illustrated and would make a great cartoon or major motion picture. The Boston Book Review called Mr. Blevins " America's next Dr. Seues!" If you enjoy Ed Gorey and Dr. Seues and Tim Burton then you will LOVE this book.