Melina Marchetta’s Finnikin of the Rock will take the reader on a fast-paced adventure through a beautifully created fantasy world. Finnikin and the rest of the unique cast of characters are believable and keep the novel moving and advancing, while adding depth to the story line through their mixed emotions and constant action. Not only are the characters excellent, but the writing is also well-done. The style complements the plot and is a perfect difficulty level for seventh to ninth graders. Although the very beginning is a little slow, it improves quickly. Anyone who enjoys fantasy won’t be able to put Finnikin down until they’ve read it all.