Like I said, Unova was a HUGE low point in the series. I could barely tolerate it, but they've redeemed themselves greatly with Kalos. I was very proud that they didn't make the whole "a level 100 pikachu can't be a level 5 Snivy" mistake again. Even if you don't go back to watching it, I'll let you know it's improved in many ways.

I think ten because of the whole children demographic but I think the most concerning thing to me is Misty is a gym leader, but she's ten. If they can't start their adventure until they're ten, then how is she already a gym leader?