I will admit, it took me quite a long time to get into this book. But by the end, I loved it.
I remember trying to read this book multiple times growing up, but I just couldn't get through it. The first few chapters are interesting, but they really drag on. The book is written in a similar style to many old children's books like Treasure Island and Peter Pan where the action is slow to come and the narration is filled with lots of details and descriptions.
However, once I got into it, the book was fascinating. I loved the plot and I especially loved Meggie's character and how she grows throughout the novel. This book is filled with fascinating characters and situations. I also really enjoyed all of the quotes and references to other works of literature.
The whole idea of the book was magnificent and I really enjoyed it. This is a perfect fit for book lovers. The only drawback for me was how detailed it was. The world building was great, but after a while I just wanted the action to get going. There are so many interesting interconnected things, but it takes a really long time for them to all come together. I'm not surprised that my middle-school self gave up on it, but I am so glad I came back to it as an adult.
A great book with a fantastic plot that is long and slow at times, but overall a very cool read.