The House with a Clock in Its Walls

I read this last October with Michele. We both enjoyed it, but it was a little darker than I had remembered as a kid. Apparently this was the make-or-break book in the author, John Bellairs', career. He originally wanted it to be an adult horror novel, but some twist of fate turned it into a kids' book. Others followed, and somehow or other (I think from our family bookworm, Jessica), I was weaned on these bizarre, frightening books. It was a fun read (for kids at least 10 years old)! ...But you don't have to take my word for it!