Of the Drizzt books I have read, this particular one stands out as
the best. Unlike later entries in the series (the Legacy of the
Drow set, namely), the Underdark is still a mysterious place where
luminescent beauty belies danger and treachery. The writing and
plot are fairly simplistic, but here it works, as the poignant
themes of struggling with lonlines, and the importance of
friendship are unhindered by heavy-handed, pseudo-philosophical
meanderings and silly subplots. Drizzt's travelling companions are
the most unique and interesting we've ever gotten, though a twist
concerning one of them later in the book seems unnecessary, though
can be seen coming from a mile away.
All in all, it is a fun and even emotional read, highly recommended
for the introspective younger reader.
Please note though, this hardcover edition contains some
significant typographical errors, such as missing punctuation and
even missing WORDS.