I liked *The Spiderwick Chronicles*. I'll admit that I didn't read the books because I was afraid that it would be similar to the *Lemony Snicket*, which I found it to be depressing and redundant.



Anyways, the Grace family inherit an old house from their Great-Aunt Lucinda, who has been put away in an assisted-living housing. The Grace kids, Jarod, Simon, and Mallory, soon discover an unusual field guide. The field guide, complied by Arthur Spiderwick, lists magical creatures that exist right outside of their new home.



However, a shape-shifting ogre, Mulgrath, has been waiting for years to get his hands on the field guide so he can dominate both the magical and human worlds. Gradually losing to Mulgrath, the children seeks assistance from Great-Aunt Lucinda, who, in turn, sends them off an adventure of a journey in preparation of the final battle.



Overall, wonderful story, filled with wonderful characters. Hogsqueak, a bat-like creature, is my favorite of them all. I do wish there were additional background provided on each of the magical characters as well as their purpose. Ah, I guess I'll have to read the books to find out.



I found this story/film to be enjoyable by both kids and adults. That is, if the adults are young at heart. Also, if you've got a sensitive side, you might shed a tear or two.