OK. So - I'll admit it. When I first read the book, I was rather captivated. Still am - by some aspects of it.
But as I grew up, the inconsistencies and the poor overall plot became undeniable.
Still - one thing I do appreciate the book for is the language it's written in. I always tell English-reading beginners to go for it. If not for the story, then for the educational value of an easy read.