I am about halfway through this book and I have mixed feelings. I am really enjoying the plotline that Funke is carrying. The idea of all these runaways roaming the streets of Venice is so captivating. If I was in 5th grade reading this, I would be estatic. As a college student reading this it blows my mind to think of how these precious kids are living all alone. The reason I have mixed feelings on this book is I am having a hard time getting completely wrapped in the pages. I feel as if the beginning was semi-slow and almost predictable but at the same time I would find myself wondering what was next. Maybe I am just a slow reader or this entire long labor day weekend with ASU winning has captured more of my attention. I am heavily confused about Scipio. The fact that he is around the age of 12 or 13, close to the age of the others, and their leader is strange. I have yet to read others comments on this page because the reaction Dr. Frye has about this book is huge and I dont want to blow the story. I love that Funke captures Venice. Since reading the last book, Venice has been on my mind. She uses an entire new outlook to give you the impression of what Venice is truly like. My favorite character so far is Hornet. She just seems to be so witty and on top of things. I'm going to continue to read hopefully getting more enthralled in the book as the story hopefully picks up a little!