Perfect for young readers of fantasy. While this is a formulaic hero’s journey, it is done well, using what I call the “Underdog Mage Trope”, similar to the Codex Alera and Naruto. I would say that if this book is missing anything it is emotional depth. The extremes of humor and sadness are barely touched upon. The main character’s conflict seems more analytical than spiritual, more like a math problem than a philosophical or moral problem. In this world, a individual’s spirit is treated like any other mundane part of the body. Because of this, there seems to be no real wonder to experience. These story aspects are not flaws, per se, but they prevent me from feeling emotionally invested enough to continue the series. Will Wight is a smart and clever writer who writes excellent nerd fantasy. While it lacks poetry, there is plenty of crunch.