After the sudden death of their parents, the three Baudelaire children must depend on each other and their wits when it turns out that the distant relative who is appointed their guardian is determined to use any means necessary to get their fortune. Illustrations.After the sudden death of their parents, the three Baudelaire children must depend on each other and their wits when it turns out that the distant relative who is appointed their guardian is determined to use any means necessary to get their fortune. Illustrations. Winner of Colorado Children's Book Award (Junior Novel) 2003 and Nene Award 2003. Short-listed for Book Sense Book of the Year Award (Child. Lit.) 2001 and Flicker Tale Children's Book Award (Juvenile) 2003.