The Ersatz Elevator is arguably the point where the series evolves from a 'formulaic' tragedy into a genuine conspiracy thriller.

It’s aged remarkably well because its target—shallow social trends and the uselessness of adults who 'just want to be liked'—is timeless. Unlike many books from the early 2000s, it doesn't feel dated; it feels like a dark, sophisticated joke that the reader is finally old enough to be in on.

If your kid can handle the 'unfortunate' part of the title, this is one of the most intellectually stimulating series you can put in their hands.