This was my first Peter Straub book. I must say, he kept me reading without wanting to rush through it, yet the interest was maintained. I would read some, think about it, then read more. I liked the way he jogged back and forth between the actions of the boy and the thoughts of the uncle without confusing the reader. The mystery of the boy's disappearance almost disappointed me until I read the intro to his next book. Now, of course, I want to get my hands on the next book! Nice going, Peter!