I read this book with my kids as part of a homeschool curriculum. They're in 4th grade, and this book seemed a little simple for them, but they enjoyed it. It is very British, and uses words not common in American English, as well as the casual use of "bitch" as in "female dog" (not something you'd find in an American children's book!). Still, it was a sweet story, and I'm glad we read it. Maybe we'll have to check out the movie . . .