A Series of Unfortunate Events #1: The Bad Beginning

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."

• A Nefarious Villain: Meet Count Olaf, a greedy and repulsive guardian with one scraggly eyebrow, a mysterious eye tattoo, and a terrible plan to steal the Baudelaire fortune.
• Gothic Fiction for Kids: A story of mysterious fires, a dilapidated mansion, uncomfortable clothing, and the pervasive feeling that something terrible is always about to happen.
• An Unbreakable Sibling Story: Follow Violet, Klaus, and Sunny Baudelaire—three intelligent and resourceful children who must rely on their unique talents to survive in a world of incompetent adults.
• A Witty, Irreverent Voice: Discover a literary and hilarious tale that speaks directly to the reader, defining vocabulary and delighting in its own miserable telling.