If your kid is obsessed with Wings of Fire or How to Train Your Dragon, this is the logical next step up in quality. Cornelia Funke is a legend for a reason; she doesn't treat middle-graders like they're stupid. It’s a 400+ page commitment, but it’s the kind of story that sticks to your ribs.
It’s safe, it’s smart, and it’s actually well-written. No 'brain rot' here. Just a solid, old-school adventure that works because the characters are actually likable. It’s a bit of a marathon, so maybe don't start this the night before a book report is due, but for a summer read or a long car trip? It’s gold.