When Did You See Her Last?

If I had a nickel for every time somebody said that Lemony Snicket is too clever for his own good, I would have a dime. As I was reading the second book in the new series, it hit me that while I am entertained by his clever words and snarky characters (how awesome is Moxie, I ask you!) I have to wonder: do kids like this? Is this appealing to kids at all? I just can't think of one younger reader I know who would stick out the weird pulp detective novel feel of this story. I can't imagine them relating to any of the characters, especially the not very enlightening Lemony. Still, I find myself rereading lines because I just like them so much.