A thorough synopsis and review of this classic children's novel already exists at: [Link removed - login to see] Why re-invent the wheel? I would encourage everyone, whether you have kids or not, to read this story. It uses many words that have fallen into disuse, but that also gives it its classic feel, much like Dickens' works. And Kingsley throws in some made-up words, reminiscent of Lewis Carroll. The story is written with the effect of many of the cartoons I watched as a kid, where there's something for kids on the surface and something much more profound that kids won't fully appreciate or understand--grown-up stuff. This lends itself nicely to being a book to be read together and discussed together (I know, and people don't make bread with their hands anymore either!) That's why I believe that it's a book to be appreciated by everyone. The edition that I have read is 369 pages long, which may present a challenge to many young readers, but who'd athunk so many yungins would have devoured all those J.K. Rollings' tomes! An animated movie was made in the late 70s, narrated by James Mason, which is based on this story as well. The Water-Babies has become one of my best-loved favorites for a variety of reasons, but mainly because many of its themes remind me so much of the dynamics of growing up in my own family in Michigan starting in the 1950s. Reading it evoked many memories I had not been in touch with for a long time, which added to the wonder I felt. It's themes are ageless and timeless, such as redemption, respect for children, consequences for our actions in this life, etc. But, don't take my word for it--explore it for yourself and see! (my local library had 3 copies)