I love Darren Shan's other series but this one didn't work for me as a first book. I know the point he's clearly trying to make is racism is wrong and shows the character slowly realize this, but turn of events and the racism soured my stomach and ruined my enjoyment. I will try the second hoping for redemption and less stuff to piss me off, especially about the fate of a particularly sweet character. Not sure if each book will be through a different viewpoint and social issue yet.