If you are easily depressed or offended, maybe this book is not for you. But for those of us who insist that a book be lyrical, profound, and mesmerizing, it was a wonderful find. The vivid characterizations including the oddly sympathetic protagonist (and yes, he was quite funny sometimes) combined with the mystery and suspense of the plot made the book irresistable and hard to put down. I finished a library copy late last night and am going out to buy my own this afternoon. That is the highest compliment I can give it. I will also recommend it to friends and relatives. Next, I am going to try to find other books by this author. Bravo, Miss O'Dell!