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A Series of Unfortunate Events #1: The Bad Beginning
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A Series of Unfortunate Events #1: The Bad Beginning

Lemony Snicket, Brett Helquist

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NOW A NETFLIX ORIGINAL SERIES

In the tradition of great storytellers, from Dickens to Dahl, comes an exquisitely dark comedy that is both literary and irreverent, hilarious and deftly crafted. Never before has a tale of three likeable and unfortunate children been quite so enchanting, or quite so uproariously unhappy. 

Are you made fainthearted by death? Does fire unnerve you? Is a villain something that might crop up in future nightmares of yours? Are you thrilled by nefarious plots? Is cold porridge upsetting to you? Vicious threats? Hooks? Uncomfortable clothing?

It is likely that your answers will reveal A Series of Unfortunate Events to be ill-suited for your personal use. A librarian, bookseller, or acquaintance should be able to suggest books more appropriate for your fragile temperament. But to the rarest of readers we say, "Proceed, but cautiously."

Lemony Snicket had an unusual education, which may or may not explain his ability to evade capture. He is the author of the 13 volumes in A Series of Unfortunate Events, several picture books including The Dark, and the books collectively titled All The Wrong Questions.

Brett Helquist's celebrated art has graced books from the charming Bedtime for Bear, which he also wrote, to the New York Times–bestselling A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket to the glorious picture book adaptation of Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol. He lives with his family in Brooklyn, New York.

Nevada Young Readers’ Award
Colorado Children’s Book Award
Nene Award (Hawaii)

Praise for A Series of Unfortunate Events: “Hilarious. Luckily for fans, the woes of the Baudelaires are far from over.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Those who enjoy a little poison in their porridge will find it wicked good fun.” — Kirkus Reviews

“Irrepressible, brave and charming.” — New York Times Book Review

“With a cast of unforgettable characters, a distinctly literary air, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, this is a great match for dark comedy fans.” — Brightly

ISBN-13 9780061757099

Published: March 17, 2009

176 Pages

A Series of Unfortunate Events #1: The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket

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