My 14 yr old son and I love to listen to the Nick books. We really enjoy the world and all of it's characters. That being said, this book is a little preachier than the others. There is a lot of mono-logging about being a better person, overcoming what a horrible life they've had, being the best in spite of circumstances with an anti bullying tangent that goes on for a full 5 minutes. I give it 4.5, (loved the story) just because the same message could have been given with a lot less preaching. Can't wait for the next installment.