Really a 3.5 for creativity, but short of a 4 star book due to some wandering plot and execution. I wanted to love this book, which is a neat mixture of Charles Dickens, Roald Dahl, and Wind in the Willows with a dollop of steam punk on top, but it took itself a little too seriously and stayed too dark for too long. Arthur learns who he is a little late in the game and what his purpose it, and some bad guys turn out to be good guys and some good guys show up just at the point of convenience in ways that aren't well enough explained.
The presentation of this book, with its limited illustrations, medium size, and stunning cover was wonderful, but while it will appeal to numerous adults and critics, I have a hard time picturing the child who will have to will to stick it out. This author is one to watch though.