This book is perhaps a little bit longer than it needs to be, but it's also absolutely magical. The descriptions of the Inkworld are like coming home to a fantasy book I read in childhood. Meggie and Farid and Staubfinger are as lovely to follow around as always, and der Schwarze Prinz and his bear are delightful new characters. I read these books often in my childhood, but I've forgotten most of what happens in book three. I can't wait to rediscover how the story continues.