What is the author's style in The Reptile Room by Lemony Snicket?

As in the preceding volume, the language used in this book may be difficult for some children. There is a smattering of some rarely used words, such as "Brummagem," which means fake, but usually applies to a thing and not an emotion, and "Vainglorious," which is used to describe someone that has a high opinion of themselves, usually undeservedly.