I haven't read these books yet, but have heard quite a lot of enthusiasm from parents I respect. HOWEVER, so far, I have two things I'd like you to be aware of:
1) While these aren't especially hard reading, there are some context passages that use a lot of unfamiliar words that won't make sense without some prior context or explanation. My son, nine-year old Stephen, while he really likes the books, has had quite a bit of difficulty with the vocabulary with the first couple he's read. The books are definitely best for an intermediate reader, not a beginning one.
2) Obviously, there are some pretty mature concepts in these books! Hazardous Tales dealing with war, slavery, revolutions and cannibalism may be a bit much for younger or sensitive readers, especially kids who haven't already been somewhat exposed to the periods already. You'll see depictions of stabbings, hangings, explosions, beatings, shootings, corpses on battlefields, and more (fortunately, the cannibalism is only alluded to). While we think the artist is pretty tasteful, considering his topic, some people find the images too graphic for their impressionable kids. Please use your own personal discernment!
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